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Greek mythology is exactly what it says it is; it’s mythology. That doesn’t mean readers shouldn’t take the time to learn about it. Mythology is powerful, interesting, and beautiful. The stories of gods and goddesses may not be believable, but they’ll make readers wish they were.
Beside the fact that these stories aren’t true, they still have a lot to do with Ancient Greece and the world as we know it today. The myths from Ancient Greece are often drawn on as inspiration. They are used in modern art, like movies, music, and books. Greek mythology is one of those class units that no one forgets. There is so much to learn about Greek mythology.
What are the Best Greek Mythology Books to read?
There are many characters whose stories interweave, and myths that are often told in different ways. These 20 books will help set those Greek mythology facts straight, and help acquaint new readers with the beautiful world of Ancient Greece.
Best Greek Mythology Books: Our Top 20 Picks
Here are some of the best greek mythology books that you can consider to expand your knowledge on the subject:
1. Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods
Percy Jackson books are almost as well known as Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings. Because of this, it should be no surprise that Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods by Rick Riordan and John Rocco is also a success.
This book, like many others, tells the stories of Greek gods and goddesses from Greek myths. The added twist about this book is that Rick Riordan’s popular, fictional character, Percy Jackson, is the narrator. Percy Jackson adds an added humor to the book that makes it an easy read for kids. The book is light-hearted and informative. Because these characters are part of Percy Jackson’s world, he happily points out how idiotic and messed up they can be. This book is great for kids who both have and haven’t read the Percy Jackson series.
- Authors: Rick Riordan (Author), John Rocco (Illustrator)
- Publisher: Disney-Hyperion; Illustrated Edition (February 23, 2016)
- Pages: 416 pages
2. D’Aulaires Book of Greek Myths
There are many greek myths about gods, goddesses, mythical creatures, and everything in between. D’Aulaires Book of Greek Myths by D’Aulaires, Ingried D’Aulaire and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire, covers them all. This husband and wife duo wrote the book, and created the pictures.
The book tells the greek myths that everyone has heard in a fun, kid-friendly way. It is full of beautiful pictures, humor, and storytelling. This book has the same whimsical tone as Disney’s own movie about Greek mythology, Hercules. This book combines education with wild adventures around Ancient Greece. The stories stand on their own, but are also subtly connected. This is an easy read that is great for all ages. The stories are seperated, so this book can be read to children over many nights. It is the perfect bedtime book.
- Authors: Ingri d’Aulaire (Author), Edgar Parin d’Aulaire (Author)
- Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers; Illustrated Edition (March 1, 1992)
- Pages: 208 pages
3. Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters
Treasury of Greek Mythology by Donna Jo Napoli and Christina Balit is National Geographic’s own book on Greek mythology. The book is full of amazing stories and beautiful pictures. The book includes information on all kinds of characters from Greek mythology, as well as history, geography, and constellations that are associated with them.
In fact, many gods actually have planets named after them. This book does not shy away from controversial themes, like Zeus’ infidelity. This book strays from the ordinary by including commentary from the author. This book is not great for all ages, but it is certainly informative. This book has the details of many myths that have inspired great stories, such as Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief and Mortal Gods.
- Authors: Donna Jo Napoli (Author), Christina Balit (Illustrator)
- Publisher: National Geographic Kids; Reinforced Library ed. Edition (October 11, 2011)
- Pages: 192 pages
4. Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of the Greek Myths
Greek Mythology is full of so many incredible characters. It is sometimes difficult to remember who is who, and what they did. Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of the Greek Myths by Bernard Evslin contains the biographies of all of Greek mythology’s favorite characters. It has four sections: gods, nature myths, demigods, and fables. The language is simple, direct, and easy to follow. The separation of the characters helps readers connect the stories to one another. Some of the most well-known characters in this book are: Zeus, Hera, Athena, Pandora, and Theseus.
Then are also some that are not often heard of, such as: Pygmalion, Arion, Phaeton, and Hephaestus. The stories in this book, so it is easy for all readers to follow. But beware… the Greek myths can get pretty wild!
- Authors: Bernard Evslin (Author)
- Publisher: Open Road Media Teen & Tween (October 30, 2012)
- Pages: 242 pages
5. Mythology The Gods, Heroes, and Monsters of Ancient Greece (Ologies)
Some books need one opinion, others need four. Mythology The Gods, Heroes, and Monsters of Ancient Greece has four authors: Dugald A. Steer, Nick Palin, David Wyatt, and Nick Harris.
However, the myths in the book were written by Lady Hestia Evans in 1825. This book adds more content through illustrations, games, and so much more. This is a very kid-friendly book, and the four authors made that possible. This book is special because it not only introduces kids to Greek mythology, but it lets them interact with it. This is a fun, out of the box kind of book. This is the perfect Greek mythology book for kids.
- Authors: Lady Hestia Evans (Author), Dugald A. Steer (Editor), Various (Illustrator)
- Publisher: Candlewick; Illustrated Edition (August 28, 2007)
- Pages: 29 pages
6. The Greek Myths: The Complete and Definitive Edition
The Greek Myths: The Complete and Definitive Edition by Robert Graves is full of captivating stories that will draw readers of all ages in. This book is very easy to read. It has an index full of popular names in Greek mythology, detailed stories, and plenty of interesting commentary.
This book is as historical as it is interesting. This book can be read straight through, or it can be opened to any page. It is split in seven sections, and each story has a title. The index can be consulted when choosing the best one. The stories are quick and to the point. This is a nice, leisure read that will also help readers understand Greek culture and history.
- Authors: Robert Graves (Author)
- Publisher: Viking (May 15, 2018)
- Pages: 784 pages
7. The Complete World of Greek Mythology
The Complete World of Greek Mythology by Richard Buxton is the perfect book to use for a Greek mythology unit or class. This book discusses well-known Greek myths, and details their origins. Buxton takes an informative approach to teach Greek mythology. Instead of simply sharing stories of the past, he explains what they mean and how they came to be.
This book has everything there is to know about Greek mythology. It details how it came to be, how nature played in a position in these stories, how the Romans later told these stories, and Greek mythology has had an impact on the artistic world, like in movies and theater. The book is very well-organized and is well-research. This is a perfect book for college-aged students. And best of all…it has pictures.
- Authors: Richard Buxton (Author)
- Publisher: Thames & Hudson (June 28, 2004)
- Pages: 240 pages
8. A Child’s Introduction to Greek Mythology
Greek mythology is as interesting as it is historical. The stories are captivating, and help the world learn more about Greek culture. While many Greek myths are not kid-friendly, there are some that definitely are. A Child’s Introduction to Greek Mythology by Heather Alexander and Meredith Hamilton makes Greek mythology fun for kids.
The book is full of stories about heroes, monsters, gods, goddesses, and more. The book has quick-witted humor, wild adventures, and gorgeous drawings. The first section of this book is about god and goddesses, and the second part is about the actual myths. Kids will learn all about the characters from Greek mythology, and their origins. This book is great for kids of all ages, but it is most suitable for those that are aged 9-12.
- Authors: Heather Alexander (Author), Meredith Hamilton (Illustrator)
- Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal; Har/Pstr Edition (May 4, 2011)
- Pages: 96 pages
9. Mythos
The same old stories from Greek mythology can become redundant and boring. The stories are the same. Without a fresh take on Greek mythology, the excitement of the topic loses its allure. Mythos by Stephen Fry is full of well-known Greek myths, but with Fry’s own take. Fry is a man of many talents; he is a writer, actor, and comedian.
This book combines Fry’s talents. He retells these stories with grandiose(like an actor) and humor (like a comedian). Fry does a great job of retelling these common myths and relating them to modernity of today. He is well-knowledge in the topics of mythology, so the stories are still informative and accurate. This is a great mythology read. It’s simple, quick to read, and really funny.
- Authors: Stephen Fry (Foreword)
- Publisher: Chronicle Books; Illustrated Edition (August 27, 2019)
- Pages: 352 pages
10. The Library of Greek Mythology
The Library of Greek Mythology by Apollodorus is an ancient retelling of classic myths many know and love today. This book tells the tales of all the greatest Greek myths. It is full of fascinating history, and tells many stories from the perspectives of heros, heroines, and their families. This book, unlike what many hear today, is far more about the heros than it is about the gods. When people think of Greek mythology, one of the first names they mention is “Zeus.” That is not the case in this book. Because it was written in AD, it includes many stories that aren’t often mentioned today.
This book helps readers get back to the basics and learn about the earliest Greek myths. This book is an easy read because it is organized by the families, and how their stories connect to one another. This is a book many historians refer to when discussing Greek mythology today.
- Authors: Apollodorus (Author), Robin Hard (Translator)
- Publisher: Oxford University Press; 1st Edition (August 1, 2008)
- Pages: 336 pages
11. Greek Mythology: An Adult Coloring Book with Powerful Greek Gods
Adult coloring books are an up and coming trend. Coloring is said to reduce tension and stress. With the high volume of sales in adult coloring books, it’s easy to assume that theory is correct. Greek Mythology: An Adult Coloring Book by Jade summer is a great start for those hoping to get into the adult coloring book game.
This book is full of beautiful images from Greek mythology that need colored. The book has over 25 images with double copies so everyone can draw with a friend. This coloring book is great for all ages. It has some incredible pictures ranging from Zeus to Medusa. Many of these pictures also include the name of the god, goddesses, or monster on them.
- Authors: Jade Summer (Author)
- Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (May 19, 2018)
- Pages: 107 pages
12. 100 Characters from Classical Mythology
There are hundreds of characters in classical mythology. From gods and goddesses to heroes and monsters, there are too many worthy Greek characters to remember. 100 Characters from Classical Mythology by Malcolm Day tells readers which ones are worth reading about. These characters are some of the most prominent in both Greek and Roman mythology. These are names that are often referred to. Their stories are connected, and essential to understanding others.
The book contains themes: love, anger, ambition, jealousy, and beauty. These are prevalent themes in the Greek mythology universe, and ones that often come up. This book also has beautiful illustrations that come in many bright colors. This book is an easy and fun read.
- Authors: Malcolm Day (Author)
- Publisher: B.E.S.; Illustrated Edition (March 1, 2007)
- Pages: 160 pages
13. Olympians Boxed Set
The Olympians were the first deities the Ancient Greeks believed in. The Olympians were made up of 12 gods and goddesses: Poseidon, Artemis, Zeus, Hera, Apollo, Demeter, Hephaestus, Hermes, Athena, Ares, Aphrodite, Hephaestus, Hermes and Dionysus. Olympians Boxed Set by George O’Connor includes six biographies on six Olympians: Zeus, Athena, Hera, Hades, Poseidon, and Aphrodite.
This set comes with fun artwork, interesting stories, and a free poster of the Olympian family tree. This book set includes more in-depth details from the stories of the Olympians. Readers will learn of all the wrongs and rights the Olympians did in this box set. These books are fun, simple reads that are great for all kinds of readers.
- Authors: George O’Connor (Author, Illustrator)
- Publisher: First Second; Box Edition (October 7, 2014)
- Pages: 480 pages
14. Greek Mythology Explained
The many myths from Greek mythology are interesting, but hard to understand. There are many many stories that can be hard to follow. Greek Mythology Explained by Marious Christou and David Ramenah takes a “deeper look at classical greek lore and myth.”
This book tells the stories of six classic myths in new ways. In this book, the stories are retold and analyzed by the authors. This book has well-known stories, and some that have never been heard of. The book retells the story of Medusa, the woman whose hair is made of snakes, and who turns people to stone when they look in her eyes. The book shares the story of Artemis and Orion, and the jealousy that this spawns in Artemis’s twin brother, Apollo. This book doesn’t have many stories, but the ones that are included are very detailed and worth the read.
- Authors: Marios Christou (Author), David Ramenah (Author)
- Publisher: Mango (January 15, 2019)
- Pages: 352 pages
15. The Greek Myths (Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition)
The Greek Myths by Robert Graves is one of the most interesting books on Greek mythology. The book doesn’t read like a book at all; it reads like a comic book. Graves tells the stories of Greek myths through his own retelling. He uses ancient literature to inspire his stories and make them his own.
This book is kid-friendly, and easy for people of all ages to read. The cover and pictures will draw readers in, but the contents will make them stay. This edition of this book is special because it has an introduction from Rick Riordan, the author of the Percy Jackson series. This book is full of many great myths that will keep readers engaged, entertained, and educated.
- Authors: Robert Graves (Author), Ross Macdonald (Illustrator), Rick Riordan (Introduction)
- Publisher: Penguin Classics; Illustrated Edition (April 24, 2012)
- Pages: 793 pages
16. Greek Mythology: A Captivating Guide to the Ancient Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters
Greek Mythology: A Captivating Guide to the Ancient Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters by Matt Clayton has all readers need to know about Greek mythology. This book really is a guide.
The book includes the captivating stories that make Greek mythology so interesting, as well as the history behind them. This book keeps readers entertained, but also helps them understand how these stories came to be. This book has both stories and character biographies. It details many myths from Greek history. This book is full of fast facts, and interesting points of view. This is an easy, yet informative, read. It is a great read for people of all ages, including young children.
- Authors: Matt Clayton (Author)
- Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (January 30, 2017)
- Pages: 155 pages
17. Greek Mythology: A Traveler’s Guide
The stories from Greek myths may not be true, but the places where they occur are. Every year, millions of tourists flock to Greece to see the place that inspired these stories. Greek Mythology: A Traveler’s Guide by David Stuttard includes a travel itinerary for Greece that has 22 locations.
This book has readers trekking from the city of Thebes to Mount Olympus. The book details the locations, what you will find there, and why they are important to Greek mythology. This book helps travelers read and find new places to enjoy. Not everything from Ancient Greek culture is still around. This book helps readers find the places from Ancient Greece that still are. The book also has a map, and beautiful drawings. This is a well-rounded book that every tourist heading to Greece needs. Those who aren’t traveling to Greece can still enjoy this book, and learn about the impact these places had on Greek mythology.
- Authors: David Stuttard (Author)
- Publisher: Thames & Hudson; 1st Edition (May 3, 2016)
- Pages: 256 pages
18. Greek Mythology: A Captivating Introduction to Greek Myths of Greek Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters
Greek Mythology: A Captivating Introduction to Greek Mythos of Greek Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters is yet another Greek mythology book by Matt Clayton.
In this book, Clayton provides a comprehensive guide to understanding Greek mythology and the many editions and translations of each story. This book includes information about the beginning of Greek mythology, Oedipus and his children, the birth of the muses, the rulers of olympus, and so much more. This book also details how Greek mythology had an impact on Roman and Egyptian mythology. This book is just as interesting as it is informative. It is a great read. This book is particularly great for high school students who are learning about Greek mythology.
- Authors: Matt Clayton (Author)
- Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (April 19, 2018)
- Pages: 120 pages
19. Greek Mythology: Fascinating Myths and Stories of Greek Gods, Heroes and Monsters
Greek Mythology: Fascinating Myths and Stories of Greek Gods, Heroes, and Monsters by Neil Matt Hamilton tells the greatest stories from Greek mythology, and explains how different Ancient Greek civilization was. This book contains everything readers need to know to understand Greek legend and myth.
With this book, Hamilton describes the world the Ancient Greeks lived in and how these myths impacted their lives. The book contains information about the top gods and goddesses, the scariest monsters, and the stories that live on with us today. These stories helped Ancient Greeks cope with their lives, and build a better understanding of them. By learning about them today, readers get the chance to travel back in time through the pages of mythology.
- Authors: Neil Matt Hamilton (Author)
- Publisher: Independently published (October 9, 2019)
- Pages: 159 pages
20. Greek Mythology: The greatest Greek Mythology tales, including gods, goddesses, monsters, heroes, and much more!
Greek Mythology: The Greatest Greek Mythology Tales by Tony Romero is jam-packed full of some of the most well-known Greek tales that have been shared in novels, on tv shows, and more.
In this book, Romero takes readers back to where these stories all began: Ancient Greece. The source of inspiration for so many hit books and sitcoms today are from great greek myths. This book tells these stories, and relates them back to the modern day. This book includes stories about Hercules, Pandora, The Trojan War, and more. There are many chapters in this book, and they all have a different theme. Learn about the most important Greek myths in this book. So much of what we see today was inspired by the Greeks. By reading this book, readers will understand why and how.
- Authors: Tony Romero (Author)
- Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (June 2, 2018)
- Pages: 50 pages
Choosing the Best Greek Mythology Books
Greek Mythology is full of stories that are often told, and those that are not told enough. There are myths about monsters, gods, goddesses, and so much more. These stories are easy to remember. They are interesting, and are often accompanied by a visual aid. These 20 books are great introductions to Greek mythology, but there is still so much to learn. Someone could read 100 Greek myths, and they still would not have read even half of them. It’s important to keep these stories alive. Readers can do this by figuring out what they like, and continuing to learn about it. The books above are just a start.
