Classic Starts®

October 1, 2011

Gr 2-5-Namm retells 15 familiar myths in the simple, straightforward style that makes this series so accessible for emerging readers. While only one story actually deals with the gods themselves, further information about them in the introduction should satisfy interested readers. The book also includes a family tree that helps tremendously in keeping all of the names and relationships straight. The other 14 selections focus on heroes, kings, and other notable mortals or lesser supernatural creatures, and how the gods tend to interfere in their lives for better or worse. Examples include the stories of Pygmalion and Galatea, Daedalus and Icarus, and Pandora. Most of the selections are accompanied by a single illustration that illuminates a major plot point or characters. Motivations and feelings are described directly, allowing children to easily grasp the deeper meaning of the stories. The book ends with discussion questions and a note for parents and educators. Give this title to Percy Jackson's younger fans, reluctant readers, or those who want to read Greek myths but don't know where to start. It will likely become a fixture in most libraries.-Heather Talty, formerly at Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, New York City

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2012
These inexpensive condensed versions of eleven Grimms' tales and fifteen Greek myths ("retold from the classic originals") competently delineate plot points. However, the retellings are flat and, especially in the Grimm volume, rather superfluous. Occasional black-and-white illustrations highlight main characters and notable moments from the tales. Discussion questions and a "Note to Parents and Educators" are appended in each volume.

(Copyright 2012 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)