Top 5 books retelling classic Greek Myths

One of the most popular Greek mythology book series is Percy Jackson. Our theater program even performed The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical last semester. For a lot of people, the Percy Jackson series was what introduced them to Greek mythology, lighting a spark of interest in the myths of Ancient Greece. If that spark still burns within you, these other books based on Greek myths are worth checking out.

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

This book tells the story of Achilles’ early life, his time fighting in the Trojan War, and the events leading up to his death. It is a retelling of The Illiad, told from the point of view of Patroclus– Achilles’ best friend and companion.

Circe by Madeline Miller

Daughter of the Titan sun god Helios and a sea nymph, Circe is born seemingly powerless. As she grows older, she realizes that she does possess power–the power of witchcraft. The Gods, feeling threatened by her ability to turn rivals into monsters, have her banished to a deserted island. During her time on the island, she encounters many famous figures in the Greek myths such as: the Minotaur, Daedalus, Icarus, Medea, and Odysseus.

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

This is a retelling of The Odyssey, from the point of view of Penelope–Odysseus’ wife. After arriving in the Underworld, Penelope tells the story of what her life was like during the 20 years her husband was away after the Trojan War.

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint

Ariadne is the Princess of Crete, who grew up hearing stories of the gods and heroes. Below the palace, her brother the Minotaur seeks a blood sacrifice. Theseus, Prince of Athens, arrives in Crete to slay the beast. Upon their meeting, Ariadne falls in love with him. This is her story.

A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes

This book tells the story of the many women involved in the Trojan War, who aren’t as commonly mentioned as the men: the Amazon princess who fought Achilles, Penelope waiting for Odysseus to return, and to the three Greek goddesses whose feud is said to have caused the war.

Check out these books and much more from the Urbana Free Library!