The 10 Best Children’s Books About Greek Mythology: Ranked and Reviewed

Have you ever wondered why Greek mythology novels have maintained their popularity? The reason isn’t hard to see, since these action-packed stories depict immortal gods, goddesses, demigods, monsters, and heroes. In addition, readers of all ages love the stories and legends about ancient Greece that have been transmitted through the decades.

Reading novels that retell or draw inspiration from well-known tales may excite or deepen a child’s interest in Greek mythology. Further, children will find the process much more entertaining if they can act out the story. The main characters must, of course, be none other than the gods of Olympus, including Zeus, Hera, Aphrodite, and other deities, and the storylines must bring their favorite mythology to life.

Check out our finest picks for your favorite young Greek mythology aficionados. We chose these books based on their popularity, awards, and reader ratings.

A-Z-Animals’ Top Picks for the Best Children’s Books About Greek Mythology

1. D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri d’Aulaire and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire 

In D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths, Ingri d’Aulaire and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire vividly and humorously bring to life the myths that have served as the foundation for much of European literature and art over the years.

Since its publication in 1962, it has remained one of the popular books for introducing young readers to Greek mythology. 

This ageless masterpiece presents readers with rich illustrations and descriptions of ancient Greece’s gods, goddesses, and legends. To that effect, included are the almighty Zeus, who wields a fistful of thunderbolts; the wise, gray-eyed goddess Athena; the sun god, Helios; and the greedy King Midas.

Available in paperback, audiobook, and Kindle formats, this book was one of the 100 Great Children’s Books by the New York Public Library and one of NPR’s 100 Must-Read Books for Kids aged 9 to 14.

One reviewer said that this book was too advanced for children: “Appropriate for a college level academic discourse on Greek Myths.”

Pros and Cons of D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri d’Aulaire and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire

D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths

• 208 pages.
• Customers recommend this book for children ages 6 through 11.
• Evocative illustrations.
• A favorite book on Greek mythology for generations.

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2. Beasts of Olympus Series by Lucy Coats (Author) and Brett Bean (Illustrator) 

Beasts of Olympus, Lucy Coats’s eight-book series on ancient Greek stories should be on the reading list of every young reader captivated by mythological creatures. The colorful chapter novels perfectly blend Greek mythology, humor, and adventure.

Beast Keeper, the first book in the series, tells the story of Pandemonious (Demon for short), the son of the Greek deity Pan, assigned to look after the magical animals on Mount Olympus. But, first, he struggles to keep up with the varying demands of the gods and goddesses.

Brett Bean’s illustrations, in addition to Coats’ rich writing, give dramatic and comedic effects to the series. It also includes a glossary and pronunciation guide.

Beast Keeper, the first book in the series, won the 2016 Young Quills Awards.

It’s available in paperback and Kindle formats.

While it’s intended for kids grades two through four, a few reviewers indicated that this series may be too brutal for young children. As one verified reviewer wrote, “Bought this for my 8 year old who expressed interest in learning more about mythology. He loves animals and was upset at some of the descriptions about how the animals were being hurt by the gods and goddesses. Didn’t make it past the first few chapters. The book seemed well written, but for an older audience.”

Pros and Cons of Beasts of Olympus Series by Lucy Coats (Author) and Brett Bean (Illustrator) 

Beast Keeper (Beasts of Olympus #1)

• 146 pages.
• The first book in a series of eight.
• A fun book for myth-obsessed kids.
• Perfect for reading aloud.
• The illustrations complement the story.

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3. Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods by Rick Riordan

Are you a fan of Greek mythology if you haven’t heard of Rick Riordan and the Percy Jackson series? There aren’t many lists of Greek mythology books that don’t include a Riordan work, especially for middle graders.

It’s a compilation of Greek mythology short stories retold from Percy Jackson’s point of view, and it’s sure to make you laugh out loud. The narrator relates a range of myths, from the earliest accounts of Gaea and the Titans to the more detailed tales of the gods that Camp Half-Blood chronicle readers have encountered.

There are entertaining chapter titles, and Percy’s witty, distinct voice is typical of the New York Times Bestselling author.

Book one of the series has 19 chapters spanning 416 pages, and it’s perfect for kids aged nine through 12. It includes an insert with full-color pictures illustrated by Caldecott Honoree John Rocco. However, the paperback version may be too heavy for a child, thus limiting their reading pace. It’s available in hardcover, paperback, audiobook, and Kindle formats.

Negative reviews had to do with some of the dark themes such as rape and incest inherent in the original myths that Riordan included in his series.

Pros and Cons of Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson's Greek Gods

• 416 pages.
• Customers recommend this book for readers ages 9 through 12.
• Tells Greek myths from an entertaining perspective.
• Highly informative.

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4. Argos: The Story of Odysseus as Told by His Loyal Dog by R. K. Hardy

If your child loves dogs, they’re sure to love Argos: The Story of Odysseus as Told by His Loyal Dog by R. K. Hardy. Argos is Odysseus’s faithful dog who keeps his promise to look after his master’s family while he is away. But, as her son, Telemachos, faces death threats from his mother’s suitors, Odysseus’ wife, Penelope, is pressed to declare her absent husband dead.

The dog explores his master’s journeys from home by listening to the tales of sea birds and other animals and then tells us about them in this original adaptation of The Odyssey.

This moving story of adventure and devotion is a HarperCollins publication suited for eight- to 12-year-olds. The available reading formats include hardcover, paperback, and Kindle.

We were only able to find one negative review, which read: “To tell you the truth my son and I did not finish reading this book. Maybe we missed something. But the whole idea to write a book about a dog that sits at home bored while Odysseus travels seems absurd.”

Pros and Cons of Argos: The Story of Odysseus as Told by His Loyal Dog by R. K. Hardy

Argos: The Story of Odysseus as Told by His Loyal Dog

• 400 pages.
• Recommended for readers ages 8 through 12.
• An age-appropriate version of The Odyssey.
• Well-written story from a unique perspective.

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5. Heracles: My First Greek Myths by Anna Goutzouri

Heracles: My First Greek Myths is proof that it’s never too early to start teaching the classics. Anna Goutzouri brought her A-game with the infusion of inventiveness in her four board book series about Greek mythology. With its colorful, vivid illustrations and straightforward plot, this 10-paged book lends itself to babies enjoying the adventures of Heracles, one of the heroes in Greek mythology. 

Other books in the series include Theseus and the Minotaur, the 12 gods of Olympus, and the Trojan Horse.

Pros and Cons of Heracles: My First Greek Myths by Anna Goutzouri

Heracles (My First Greek Myths)

• 10 pages.
• Recommended for children up to 3 years old.
• Colorful drawings.
• Fun interactive parts.
• Simple storyline.

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6. Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters by Donna Jo Napoli (Author) and Christina Balit (Illustrator)

In its presentation of tales from Greek canon, this National Geographic compilation, Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters, captures the stories of gods and goddesses like Zeus, Aphrodite, Apollo, and Athena, as well as heroes and monsters like Helen of Troy, Perseus, and Medusa. The 2011 book was a collaboration between award-winning author Donna Jo Napoli and illustrator Christina Balit. 

This book will quickly turn into a family heirloom for anybody captivated by the fascinating stories of Greek mythology. Not only does it include sidebars for each Greek legend, but it also has a family tree and map to illustrate the ties between characters.

Even more, young readers can get more information with the addition of resource notes. Four reading options are available: audio CD, hardcover, Kindle, and audiobook. Its 192 pages are well-detailed, so kids can dip in and out or read it in one go.

Many literary awards have recognized the Treasury of Greek Mythology. Some include ALA Notable Book, Garden State Teen Book Awards list, Capitol Choices Noteworthy Book, and Best Books of 2011 by School Library Journal.

A few readers said that the narrative style was difficult to read and that some of the content was inaccurate. One verified buyer said, “I’ve read this book in multiple languages through out the years. This is the worst by far… The storyline is very confusing and language used is hardly appropriate for younger readers. The book illustrated very well, but written (I am assuming translated from Italian) horribly.”

Pros and Cons of Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters by Donna Jo Napoli (Author) and Christina Balit (Illustrator)

Best for Children

Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters

•  One of the best school library journal books of 2011.
• One of the California Reading Association's capital choices for noteworthy titles in 2012.
• Easy for kids to understand.
• Beautifully illustrated.

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7. Echo Echo: Reverso Poems About Greek Myths by Marilyn Singer (Author), Josée Masse (Illustrator)

In Echo Echo: Reverso Poems About Greek Myths Marilyn Singer’s brilliant reversible poetry, which gives alternate perspectives on each tale, is inspired by Greek mythology. The anthology contains 14 poems based on the stories of King Midas and his Daughter, Perseus and Medusa, Pandora’s box, and Pygmalion, among others. 

Also, this book aims to restore balance in children’s books about Greek mythology, and Josée Masse’s drawings complement the narrative beautifully.

Its 32 pages and gorgeous images make it perfect for children aged six to eight. It was an SLJ Best Book of the Year, a Nerdy Book Club Award winner, and a New York Public Library Best of the Year selection.

The only negative review said, “The poems were great and the pictures also. However, the little two line summary of the Greek myth underlying the poems was way too little to explain the myth if you were not already familiar with the story. Although, perhaps the two line summary is enough: e.g. – Pandora was a goddess. She got a box she was not to open. She did anyway and released bad stuff. All that was left was hope. Is that enough?”

Pros and Cons of Echo Echo: Reverso Poems About Greek Myths by Marilyn Singer (Author), Josée Masse (Illustrator)

Echo Echo: Reverso Poems About Greek Myths

• 32 pages.
• Recommended for children ages 6 through 9.
• A perfect mix of text and images.

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8. Greek Myths by Ann Turnbull (Author) and Sarah Young (Illustrator)

In collaboration with illustrator Sarah Young, author Ann Turnbull provides the definitive reference on Greek places, monsters, heroes, gods, and mortals, aptly titled Greek Myths. Unlike many others, this is a well-researched book that doesn’t confuse Greek and Roman names.

She portrays the richness of symbolism in Greek mythology to demonstrate the importance of storytelling and the stories told. The Greek stories, combined with Young’s images, are easy to comprehend and don’t hide the reality of Greek myths from kids. Hardcover, paperback, and CD formats are all available.

A sole reviewer, presumably a teacher, said that the content was inappropriate for kids younger than high school age: “I was going to use it for a unit for 4th and 5th grade students. The sexual content was inappropriate. Needs age designation.”

Pros and Cons of Greek Myths by Ann Turnbull (Author) and Sarah Young (Illustrator)

Ann Turnbull, Sarah Young's Greek Myths [Hardcover](2010)

• Appealing presentation.
• Simple wording.

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9. The Heroes in Training Collection Books 1-4 (Boxed Set) by Joan Holub (Author), Suzanne Williams (Author), and Craig Phillips (Illustrator)

The Heroes in Training Collection Books 1-4 (Boxed Set) by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams (authors), and Craig Phillips (illustrator) follows young Olympian gods led by a 10-year-old Zeus as they develop their abilities and prepare for combat. They set out against a group of ruthless giants who control the world.

There are 18 novels in this series, which feature the gods Zeus, Apollo, Poseidon, and others. Unfortunately, however, you can only get it in paperback form. Written by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams and illustrated by Craig Phillips, the book also highlights Greek gods, goddesses, and heroes from their youth with humor and action.

There were no negative reviews for this boxed set.

Pros and Cons of The Heroes in Training Collection Books 1-4 (Boxed Set) by Joan Holub (Author), Suzanne Williams (Author), and Craig Phillips (Illustrator)

The Heroes in Training Collection Books 1-4: Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom; Poseidon and the Sea of Fury; Hades and the Helm of Darkness; Hyperion and the Great Balls of Fire

• 512 pages.
• Recommended for children ages 6 through 9.
• Compiles the first four books in the Heroes in Training series.
• Great for a struggling reader.
• A fun introductory read about Greek mythology.

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10. Gifts from the Gods: Ancient Words and Wisdom from Greek and Roman Mythology by Lise Lunge-Larsen (Author), Gareth Hinds (Illustrator)

If you’ve got a language nerd or Percy Jackson fan in the family, Gifts from the Gods: Ancient Words and Wisdom from Greek and Roman Mythology by Lise Lunge-Larsen (author), Gareth Hinds (illustrator) will make a perfect gift for them. This illustrated book of Greek and Roman mythology includes tales and words that have their roots in those myths, such as nemesis, echo, muse, panic, and fury. 

The book is recommended for kids from 10 to 12 years old who wish to discover the origin of the phrase “Achilles’ Heel,” the connection between the muses and museums, and the act that made Narcissus famous today.

This is a quick read that’s available in paperback, hardback, and Kindle formats.

One reviewer said that the content that was included was good, but that it didn’t cover enough. Another remarked, “The book is somewhat complicated for younger kids in this case eight and nine. They had a hard time reading it and did not have much of an interest either.”

Pros and Cons of Gifts from the Gods: Ancient Words and Wisdom from Greek and Roman Mythology by Lise Lunge-Larsen (Author), Gareth Hinds (Illustrator)

Gifts from the Gods: Ancient Words and Wisdom from Greek and Roman Mythology

• 96 pages.
• Recommended for children ages 10 through 12.
• Good teaching resource.
• Greek root words are explained in detail.

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Criteria: What to Look for in Children’s Books About Greek Mythology

Do you have a child who’s obsessed with Greek mythology? If so, they’re sure to appreciate a book on their favorite topic — as long as it meets a few criterion. Is it appropriate for their age and is it the type of book that will appeal to them? Finally, consider content.

Is It Age Appropriate?

Most of the titles in our review list the age group for which they’re intended. While some children read above or below their age level, it’s usually safe to purchase a book that’s geared towards your child’s age group.

Type of Book

This review includes illustrated stories, novels, a board book for babies, reference books, and even a book of reversible poetry! If your kid devours novels, they probably won’t get excited about a poetry or reference book. On the other hand, if they’re into memorizing facts and wowing classmates, friends, and family with trivia, a reference book may be right up their alley.

Content

Greek mythology is filled with tales of heroism, loyalty, the dangers of pride and hubris, and other positive moral message.

However, Greek mythology also contains subjects that may be inappropriate for some kids such as incest, rape, and violence. Most children’s books gloss over or “sanitize” these topics so they won’t traumatize young readers. We encourage you to review any book that you’re considering purchasing for your child to make sure that they won’t be disturbed by the content.