Mythology underpins many aspects of modern culture, so it’s no wonder that books about popular mythology are seeing an increase in popularity at the moment. Myths can come from any tradition, religion, or culture, and it’s common to see these allegories repeated across societies.
Because these stories often explore universal themes like drama, romance, and betrayal, they’re a perfect choice for your next read. Here are 10 mythology books to add to your reading list.
10. The Odyssey by Homer
Chances are you had to read this classic at some point for school. And while, on its surface, The Odyssey might seem dry, it’s anything but. Considered to be one of the oldest texts still widely read today, this epic poem is the original telling of Odysseus’s run-ins with the Cyclopes, the lotus-eaters, and the Sirens.
9. D’Aulaire’s Book Of Greek Myths by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire
First published in 1962, this book has become a modern classic. Across 42 beautifully illustrated chapters, it retells both famous and lesser-known stories from Greek mythology. Perfect for a relaxed reading experience, this is also a great book to share with younger readers. And, if you prefer to listen to your stories, never fear: there’s an audiobook narrated by the likes of Matthew Broderick, Kathleen Turner, and the legendary Sydney Poitier.
8. Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold by C.S. Lewis
While you may know C.S. Lewis for The Chronicles Of Narnia, the author himself claimed Till We Have Faces as his best work. The 1956 novel explores the story of Cupid and Psyche, a god and mortal who fall desperately in love. The narrative is told by Psyche’s older sister Orual, whose hideous face leads her to become jealous of her beautiful sister and her handsome lover.
Part romance and part family drama about the complication of sisterhood, this story will leave you feeling reflective and asking about bigger pictures of life and relationships.
7. Where The Wild Ladies Are by Aoko Matsuda
A series of interconnected short stories, Where The Wild Ladies Are is a book about female ghosts. Translated by Polly Barton, each narrative is based on a traditional Japanese folk legend and conveyed with a feminist twist. Featuring door-to-door saleswomen, single mothers, and magical shapeshifters, these addictive stories will leave you wanting more.
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6. Autobiography Of Red by Anne Carson
Anne Carson’s novel in verse is surprising for several reasons: after its publication, it sold 25,000 copies, an astonishing feat for a book of poetry. Autobiography Of Red uses the structures and themes of Greek mythology to explore contemporary issues of sexuality, identity, and abuse. While its status as a novel in verse might seem intimidating, never fear. One critic described it as “poetry that can seduce even people who don’t like poetry.”
5. Mythos by Stephen Fry
Published in 2017, Mythos is an accessible entry point into Greek mythology. Perfect for readers who may not be familiar with Greek myths, this book introduces famous characters like Persephone, Athena, and Pandora. The best part? These playful stories are all told from the hilarious, unforgettable voice of comedian Stephen Fry.
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4. Tales Of East Africa by Jamilla Okubo
This gorgeously illustrated book features a series of 22 myths from modern-day Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. First translated and transcribed in the early twentieth century, these tales are perfect for reading aloud with loved ones, and feature everything from magical monsters to tricky animals. A perfect choice for readers looking for humor, beauty, and magic.
3. The Song Of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Written over the course of ten years, Madeline Miller’s debut novel is about the Trojan War, told through the perspective of Patroclus, a successful warrior. The novel looks at his romantic relationship with Achilles and the difficulties they face during and after the war in Troy. The Song Of Achilles was such a success that it earned Miller the 2012 Women’s Prize for Fiction.
2. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
The first book in the Percy Jackson series, The Lightning Thief is about a seemingly normal twelve-year-old boy from New York City. His life is upturned, however, when he learns that his father is the god Poseidon. The books were adapted into a Disney+ series which premiered in December of 2023. If you loved it, you’re in for some good news: a second season has been confirmed.
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1. Circe by Madeline Miller
For centuries, Greek myths have largely been told through male perspectives. Until now. Madeline Miller’s Circe is a lyrical retelling of fables from Homer’s Odyssey from the point of view of Circe, a powerful witch who is exiled for her abilities.
This pageturner has everything: family drama, murder, and good old female revenge. HBO Max announced plans for an adaptation in 2019, and we’re keeping our fingers crossed that it comes to our screens soon.
