    | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 10/01/2015 A colorful and quite enormous companion volume to Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods (2014), this inviting book retells the stories of 12 notable figures from Greek mythology, such as Cyrene, Jason, Orpheus, Perseus, Psyche, and Theseus. Riordan casts a wide net in choosing his heroes, and the inclusion of four women in this traditionally male-dominated category broadens the book’s appeal as well as its scope. Chapter titles like “Phaethon Fails Driver’s Ed,” “Whatever It Is, Bellerophon Didn’t Do It,” and “Atalanta vs. Three Pieces of Fruit: The Ultimate Death Match” capture the irreverent tone of the narrative, which is often amusing as well as informative. Written in the voice of Percy Jackson, these ancient stories sound fresh and vital. Rocco contributes many beautifully composed and dramatic paintings, from full-page action scenes to vertical side panels to small portraits at chapter headings. Like its predecessor, this large, handsome tome may be physically heavy, but it will fly off library shelves. - Copyright 2015 Booklist. School Library Journal - 11/01/2015 Gr 4–8—Having dished out the goods on the gods in Percy Jackson's Greek Gods (Disney-Hyperion, 2014), Percy now turns his attention to his fellow demigods. With typical snark, he describes the exploits and pitfalls of 12 of ancient Greece's best (or, at least, most notorious) heroes. Familiar characters including Daedalus and Theseus are joined by lesser-known names such as Cyrene and Bellerophon, and readers are sure to chuckle at chapter headings such as "Phaethon Fails Driver's Ed" and "Hercules Does Twelve Stupid Things." The chapters vary greatly in length, with Orpheus taking up just 17 pages, while Hercules's labors span nearly 100. Though the majority of the heroes featured are male, four fearless females also have a chance to shine. There are frequent pop culture references spanning everything from Frozen to Call of Duty, as well as occasional shout-outs to Percy's companions from his own adventures. This hefty tome is sure to be popular with Riordan's many fans, though readers looking for a more scholarly take on ancient lore may want to search elsewhere. Rocco's painterly illustrations lend an air of gravitas to Percy's banter, and while the tone of the book is light, the accompanying maps and index are suitably detailed. VERDICT Though it will no doubt eventually feel dated, this companion to Riordan's most popular works is a definite purchase for most libraries.—Misti Tidman, Licking County Library, Newark, OH - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
 |