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Top 5 books about Greek mythology, chosen by Jennifer Saint

The author and former English teacher Jennifer Saint selects five books that tell tales of gods and monsters, heroes and heroines of the classics

Statue of Poseidon

A statue of Poseidon, god of the sea in ancient Greece Photo: Antonios Ntoumas on Pixabay

Ariadne author Jennifer Saint picks her top five books about Greek mythology.

1 Greek Myths: A New Retelling by Charlotte Higgins 

A tapestry of tales encompassing myths from the creation of the world to the adventures of Greek gods, heroes and heroines woven together by female narrators. A fascinating compendium that puts the women of mythology centre stage.  

2 Great Goddesses: Life Lessons from Myths and Monsters by Nikita Gill 

A beautiful, fiercely original collection of poetry and prose that creates a stirring chorus of voices from the ancient world – the women, the goddesses and the monsters whose lives carry haunting resonance for the modern reader. 

3 Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe 

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

A contemporary graphic novel that shows the Olympian gods as they have never been seen before! Sharp, funny, moving and romantic, this is a brilliant modern imagining of Hades and Persephone’s story.  

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint book cover
Ariadne by Jennifer Saint is out now (Headline, £8.99)

4 Galatea by Madeline Miller 

A snack-sized Greek myth, perfect to read in a coffee break – just make sure you’re ready for a delicious dose of feminist rage! An incisive, breathtaking retelling of the myth of Pygmalion and Galatea that wakens the titular stone statue into a woman intent on reclaiming her autonomy and her power.  

5 Nectar of the Gods by Liv Albert 

A chance to learn about Greek mythology while mixing cocktails? Sign me up! This book of recipes for mythical-themed drinks is as mouthwatering as it is educational.  

Ariadne by Jennifer Saint (Headline, £8.99) is shortlisted for the Goldsboro Books Glass Bell Award 2022. The winner will be announced on Thursday September 8

You can buy Ariadne from The Big Issue shop on Bookshop.org, which helps to support The Big Issue and independent bookshops.

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