Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook: From Aphrodite to Zeus, a Profile of Whos Who in Greek Mythology by Liv Albert

Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook: From Aphrodite to Zeus, a Profile of Whos Who in Greek Mythology Reviews

• 
  Jonathan

  I received an advance review copy for free via NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. My sincerest thanks to the publisher and author. :)
  
  This is a good introduction to Greek Mythology for those who aren't very familiar with the subject matter. The text and layout is breezy and easy to read while being educational.
  
  For those who are familiar with Greek Mythology the book's art is where it shines. The art style is incredibly fantastical and suits the theme very well. However, just to buy the book for the art, I don't think it would be worth it.
  
  I appreciated also how the author points out how women 99% of the time in Greek Myth got the raw end of any deal. How they were blamed for being raped etc. The author does a good job of not shying away from this horrible aspect.
• 
  Lucy

  4****
  
  Did I need to read another Greek Mythology book? No, probably not. But I did it anyway.
  
  I love Liv Alberts podcast “let’s talk about myths Baby!” so I knew I needed to read this when she announced she was releasing a book.
  
  While this is an easy and quick read of the more well known myths and a quick guide to who is who, I found the references that this book made E.g. to modern shows, Disney films, or other books, might throw people off who had not watched it.
  
  The illustrations in this book are absolutely STUNNING though! I recommend - even if it is just to look at the artwork, as the art completely fascinated me.
• 
  Sheena

  The Greek Mythology handbook is really detailed and organized with lots of interesting facts. We learn about each of the different gods, goddesses, and more. There's a lot of information but the author links them together and tells us the individual stories. It explains what each god/goddess is famous for and their backstory. The layout is easy to follow along with and the illustrations are gorgeous. I would definitely buy this to have for my personal book collection once it comes out. There are even recommendations of movies and books in Greek mythology towards the end.
  
  Thanks so much to Netgalley and Adams Media for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
• 
  Dannii Elle

  This interesting non-fiction title collates information surrounding some of the most notable figures from Greek mythology. The introduction provides a concise overview of the Greek creation myth and the sections that follow - titled the Olympians, Deities etc., and Heroes and Mortals - each informs the reader about the basic features, abilities, details, and a relevant story for each of the individuals within them.
  
  I am still relatively uninformed about the world of Greek mythology and struggle to remember who is who, what they can do, and where they stem from. The small number of pages dedicated towards each individual ensured I was provided with basic facets concerning them, without getting overwhelmed learning of their various appearances inside the myths or the differing information regarding them when they get there.
  
  I read this book in a few sittings, as the text was straight-forward and easy to dedicate myself to, despite my lack of prior knowledge, but can see myself returning to the relevant sections when I next dive into some original mythology.
  
  I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Liv Albert, and the publisher, Adams Media, for this opportunity.
• 
  Selkis

  I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Liv Albert and the publisher.
  
  This book about Greek Mythology does exactly what it says in the title. It's an overview of the most important gods, deities and heroes from Greek mythology.
  
  Geared towards beginners (and possible younger readers in their teens), it's a fun, straight-forward read. Despite the vast number of characters, the book tells the most important/exciting stories in an entertaining way. The language is very light-hearted, with frequent jokes, and it only took me a few sittings to finish the book.
  
  The stories are presented in a logical order, although very often with references to other myths. (if you want to know more about this, see X's entry) I think this can't be avoided and didn't bother me.
  
  My only criticism is the constant pop culture references. I'm sure most people wouldn't mind them, but after a while, they were getting on my nerves. For example, I love Disney's Hercules, but the constant references to this (admittedly fantastic film) were a bit too much.
  
  I would recommend this book to people without or only little prior knowledge. Especially for teenagers interested in Greek mythology, it would be a fun read, as it provides a good overview and is an excellent starting point to dive deeper.
• 
  Natalie all_books_great_and_small

  I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
  
  Greek Mythology: The God's, Goddesses and Heroes Handbook is a beautifully illustrated easy to follow and understand information guide on who is who in Greek Mythology. This book is more for people without a vast or wide range of knowledge about Greek mythology, the god, goddesses and hero's within these tales.
  This book is a great resource which breaks down who is who and each person's story at the same time.
  This book could be read back to back or just odd pages at a time. I found it to be informative and fun and held my interest too.
  If your looking for a more fun and interesting book or way of learning about Greek Mythology, then this is an ideal book for you.
• 
  Flybyreader

  (I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
  
  We have to admit Ancient Greeks were serious about their Gods and very prolific in storytelling. There’s enough material here to last us readers for another thousand years full of mythological fiction. However, it’s really confusing to figure out who is who and who’s done what with the complex family tree of gods, titans, monsters and mortals with god-like quality. And this amazing book provides all the bite-sized information we need on Greek mythological creatures and do this with a witty feminist touch! I loved everything about this; the style, the illustrations, categorization and the basic information given under each title. Each person is described under What’s his deal? The Story You Need to Know and Now That You Know sub-headings. A perfect start to get familiarized with mythology, it sure leads to further reading and research. This was just what I needed and expected, definitely recommended!
• 
  Matt

  For millennia, the gods and heroes of Greece have entertained numerous people and inspired authors and artists across genres, but not everyone today knows Athena from Artemis or the difference from Theseus and Perseus. Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook by Liv Albert is handy guide to the major figures of the mythos for those interested in knowing who is who.
  
  Albert from the outset does not attempt to tackle every figure in Greek mythology or every myth, focusing on the most important and famous gods and heroes. With this in mind, Albert only focusing one story per entry, though many gods and/or heroes appear in multiple entries given their importance (i.e. Zeus in producing children and Hera going after them or their mothers). Except for individuals and events from The Iliad and The Odyssey, Albert retells the myths in a more balanced way most notably by calling out Zeus as a sexual deviant and Hera for her victim-blaming to name the two most prominent instances throughout multiple entries. Adding depth to the mythological retellings are roughly 25 illustrations by the amazingly talented Sara Richard whose art-deco influenced style gives the gods an ethereal appearance and mortals an unworldly quality.
  
  Greek Mythology is a fantastic introductory book for those interested in the mythos of the ancient Greeks thanks to Liv Albert’s writing and Sara Richard’s art.
• 
  Susan's Reviews

  This Greek Mytholody Handbook will give you the run-down on the Greek deities who, to this day, continue to crop up in modern fiction and film. We just can't seem to shake our obsession with those ancient myths.
  
  My favourite story has always been the Roman myth of Eros and Psyche.. (The author points out that Apuleius was a Roman storyteller, so I should be referring to this romantic couple as Cupid and Psyche, but I like the sound of "Eros and Psyche better!). I loved that Psyche, badass human that she was, was perfectly willing to undertake several impossible and sometimes dangerous tasks in hopes of regaining the love and forgiveness of her Olympian husband, Eros. Some versions of this story have Eros invisibly helping Psyche in completing her tasks, whereas other versions have various gods and demigods assisting her. This is one of the few myths that have an HEA, by the way.
  
  This handbook contains original colour graphics which are sure to please. Liv Albert's own version of the Olympian "Begattitudes" set me straight on the Greek gods' origin story. This handbook will be quite helpful to average readers whenever they have a query about these living legends, who still influence modern fiction and film today.
  Highly recommended! My rating: 4 out of 5.
  My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this handbook in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Paul

  Sincere thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for a copy to review.
  In many aspects this is almost like a textbook. After a brief intro to Greek Mythology there is an overview of most major and many almost minor figures. The bonus us there is not much jingoistic language one needs to be a super educated elite to understand. Another bonus throughout there are beautiful color illustrations.
  Liv Albert obviously has a passion and knowledge of the material and her citations range from classic writings to Disney.
  Highly recommended
• 
  Kim

  Such beautiful illustrations, a real gem!
• 
  Karen

  GREEK MYTHOLOGY: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook: From Aphrodite to Zeus, a Profile of Who's Who in Greek Mythology
  WRITTEN BY: LIV ALBERT
  
  I am so grateful to have received an Advanced Reader's Copy from Adams Media and Author Liv Albert which chronicles all of the gods, goddesses and heroes in this gem of a handbook which can be read as a primer for beginners. I have always loved novels that included the Classics interwoven in their narratives. They can be based on Egyptian, Greek or Roman Mythology and I am a fascinated reader.
  This is a brilliant compilation of mostly Greek Mythology with beautiful illustrations. I can't wait until this is published on May 5, 2021 because I am hoping that it is available in a physical book which I am going to buy because this is a favorite.
  
  When I was in the tenth grade in High School I was first introduced to Greek Mythology in a quarter of my World History class. I seemed to have a natural affinity for it as I received an A, without putting much effort to it. That class ignited a life long love of every type of Mythology.
  
  My favorite parts of this book and there are many were about Homer's Iliad and Odyssey. They are quite comprehensive and they tie in other mythic figures. I really enjoyed how the author intermingles Odysseus with the Trojan War and Circe. She tells how Paris had to choose between the three goddesses and the consequences of his choice.
  
  Many year's ago I read Margaret Atwood's short book which I bought a Special Edition that included her book called, "The Penelopiad," which is a retelling of Homer's Odyssey through the lens of Penelope, which I quite enjoyed. Also in that Special Edition was a wonderful retelling of "Hercules," by Jeannette Winterson. I treasure that box of three small volumes because they are signed by the Author's and they are an attractive boxed set.
  
  I also own the physical hardback First Edition, First Printing of the stunning retelling of the romantic relationship between Achilles and Patroclus, called, "The Song of Achilles," written by Madeline Miller. She is the same Author who wrote the excellent novel called, "Circe," which is the next book that I am going to read. "Circe," came out in 2020, and I have heard it is phenomenal. Just like this handbook which I highly recommend. So put this brilliantly written "Greek Mythology on your to be read list and pick up a copy on May 5, 2021 when it goes on sale or look for it in libraries. You will be so glad that you did. Easily a Favorite of mine for 2021.
  
  Thank you to Net Galley, Liv Albert and Adams Media for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
  
  #GreekMythology #LivAlbert #AdamsMedia #NetGalley
• 
  Stephanie (Bookfever)

  This was my highest anticipated book of the year and it was just as wonderful as I had expected it to be. I know Liv Albert from her hit podcast Let’s Talk About Myths, Baby (which you should all totally check out if you haven’t already) and I’m just so happy for her that this book has finally been released and that it turned out so amazing.
  
  As the title suggests this book is about the gods, goddesses and heroes from Greek mythology. Not all of them, of course, because then this book would be an infinitely long one but all the major characters and stories are featured. It makes for a handy little handbook, indeed!
  
  This wouldn’t be a book by Liv Albert if it hadn’t Liv’s particular gusto and humor for Greek mythology. She also doesn’t overly romanticize the stories or when the gods (like Zeus for example) assault women as so often happens in the myths. She says as it is. It’s stated in a more subtle way than on her podcast but I definitely wasn’t disappointed in that area at all. Also Liv is also the narrator for the audiobook.
  
  Of course I also have to talk about and hype up the absolutely beautiful illustrations done by Sara Richard. I’m posting a couple of them below so you can all get a little taste. They are some of the most gorgeous illustrations I’ve ever seen in a book and I really loved Sara’s interpretetions of the myths and their characters. Just stunning!
  
  Overall, Greek Mythology: The Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Handbook by Liv Albert is an excellent introduction for those who aren’t too familiar with this topic but I’m more than sure it will also highly appeal to those who are already well-versed into all things Greek mythology. It’s well-written, funny and quite the page-turner too!
• 
  Sacha

  Greek Mythology by Liv Albert
  
  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)
  
  I loved greek mythology from the very first minute in school. I was actually excited when this was made into a normal subject. 🇬🇷🏛️🏺 And so I loved every page of this incredible book. 🙂
  
  In the book, I was able to discover the backstories of the heroes, villains, gods, and goddesses that enjoy popularity in today’s shows and films. With comprehensive entries that outline each character’s name, roles, related symbols, and foundational myths, I got to know the roots of these personas and am able to better understand the stories they inspire today. With that character-focused, handy reference, I will most certainly never be confused about Ancient Greece again. 😉
  
  The book is simply gorgeous with the illustrations that give the whole thing so much life and it is incredibly complete with so many information and good writing that many of the stories will remain with me for a long time. There are many names and I had to read certain passages more than once to make sure I got it right. But that is a thing in all the greek mythology. Which means, if you are really interested in the topic then this is a real must-read. Otherwise it just takes you maybe a little longer but in my opinion it is worth it. 😁👍🏻
• 
  Lizz (Beer, Books and Boos)

  I loved this book like crazy and I couldn't put it down. I have read it one day and I did learn a lot. The writing was awesome but the illustrations is what made me fall in love. I will be checking out more books by Liv Albert and her podcast very soon. I also have plenty of people in my life that would love to read this book and I will be getting my hands on a finish copy as soon as I can. Thank you Netgalley, Adams Media and Liv Albert for letting me read and review this wonderful book.
• 
  Jody

  I enjoyed this a lot. The book itself is beautiful, a perfect sized hardback for easy reading, and beautiful illustrations. Everything was very concise, with no unnecessary padding (looking at you,
  Troy by Stephen Fry) which made it a very approachable read. I also enjoyed the acknowledgement of how horrible so many of these “heroes” actually were, and how poorly the women of Ancient Greece in general were treated.
  
  There’s also a few lists in the back for further reading, which I’ll definitely be taking a look at!
• 
  steph ★⋆. ࿐࿔ (semi slump era)

  No matter how many times I pick up a book about Greek mythology, I fall in love with it all over again. Yes, I am aware of how fucked up a lot of aspects of it is, leave me alone
• 
  Kelsey

  I was so excited to receive this ARC as I was a History major focusing on Greek and Roman Mythology. I have taken multiple courses on Greek Mythology, have read the classics, and even took Roman Law courses. I feel like it is an understatement to say that there are a freaking LOT of gods and goddesses. Of course, adding deities and heroes is another can of worms, but I think the author handled this beautifully.
  
  Each God, Goddess, Nymph, Hero, etc. are broken into their own slot containing, "What's His/Her Deal?”, “The Story You Need to Know” and “Now you Know." I love how the author also includes the Roman equivalents and modern-day connections to help the reader along.
  
  I think something mythology readers can overlook is assault. Mythology is almost so outlandish that these stories are often seen as "fun or lighthearted” or even glossed over. It is important to note that the author calls many of these stories out for what they were. Assault. I believe that the way she discusses it in unambiguous terms is important.
  
  In terms of the book, I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy. The drawings are beautiful, and I would love to have a hard copy as a coffee table book. There are times that I am discussing mythology (yes, I will talk to anyone and everyone about it) and think to myself, "wait, which god or goddess am I thinking of?" This book will be so helpful in terms of finding the key facts about the leading players. This is a perfect book for those looking to learn more about mythology and those of us who love it but sometimes need a little help, sometimes keeping the stories straight. :)
  
  Thank you to NetGalley and Adams Media for the ARC.
• 
  Ashlin

  First I want to thank Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to have an ARC of this marvelous book.
  
  WOW. Ok so if you love Greek Mythology, this book is for you. I can not even tell you how many times I wanted to enjoy some of the Greek mythology books but they never explain who the people are, they just expect you to know who they are. This is the perfect book that walks you through EVERYTHING! And I mean EVERYTHING!
  
  This book breaks down all the different levels of “gods” and who is whos child (because lets be honest there is SO FREAKIN MANY). I had no idea that Zeus had sisters? I just assumed that his wife was another god but not his SISTER! Which this book brings to light how there is a lot of sibling lovers. So it explains the family lines and gives you an over view of the “main players”. It also gives you stories after describing these characters.
  
  And don’t even get me started on the art work. Y’ALL!!! It is crazy! I was given a digital copy of and I not only want to have a physical copy because it is a great reference point for understanding characters when reading about them in other books, but the ART WORK!!!! If you think the cover is beautiful, wait until you get into the book. WOW. And I mean WOW. I am obsessed. Such beautiful work done in this book.
  
  I also really loved the fun aspect to this book. There are tons of little comments through out it to tell you things that are related to pop culture and other books that have these Greek gods in them. Even though the book is laid out as text book guide for you to understand, the writing is so much fun. You feel like your friend is explaining all of the Greek Mythology to you which in my opinion, makes the book a million times better.
  
  If you like Greek Mythology and want to learn more these legends, this book is FOR YOU! I also think it would be a great gift for someone. Again, the art work is amazing and the book is full of information that will help you understand other books with these Gods in them.
• 
  Michaela

  As someone who is highly interested in the subject, i thought this handbook did an excellent job at giving an introduction to the most notable figures and myths of Greek Mythology and even ones that aren't so we'll known. The book was well organized. The information is clearly well researched, easy to digest, and gives the reader a detailed and concise overview of Greek Mythology. I liked the pop culture references. Also, the illustrations were beautiful and a great addition to the handbook. I would buy a physical copy just for the art alone. Overall, this was an enjoyable read for me. It's a great starting point if you're a beginner and looking to dive into Greek Mythology, or if you're looking to refresh your knowledge.
  
  Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Electra (spoonfulofhygge)

  I have to say I’m a bit biased about Greek mythology. I basically grew up reading again and again the stories that Hades, Zeus, Aphrodite, Athena and the list goes on.
  That being said I must admit this is the beautiful addition with stunning illustrations and an edition that I would really love to purchase for my own daughter that she’ll be able to read on her own.
  It is important to make books like this accessible for both children and adults and in my opinion this one hit the spot.
• 
  Mandy

  Loved this. A who’s who of Greek mythology, written in a lively and accessible and often humorous style, and an ideal vade mecum for those of us who are perhaps not as familiar with our Greek gods, goddesses and heroes as we might like to be. A really useful reference guide. Lots of great illustrations to accompany the text too.
• 
  Hannah

  **ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
  
  I think this book is amazing for someone that needs quick reminders on Greek mythology stories/characters.
  I’ve already read Mythos by Stephen Fry so most myths were still fresh in my mind, but here’s what this book had that Mythos didn’t have:
  - gorgeous illustrations
  - references to recent fiction works
  
  I learned a lot of things through those fiction references, like how in Hercules the three Fates were also mixed up with the Graeae, (so not really accurate) because I had been wondering about this.
  It also got me into Lore Olympus, which was very addicting!
  Honestly I would recommend this just for the illustrations, they were mesmerising.
• 
  Mari

  Beautifully illustrated, but repetitive as hell. I wonder if the author wrote the book with the purpose of it being read as separate chapters when in need of references, because reading it as a whole made the writing style so annoying.
• 
  Nicola Michelle

  I read this book on Netgalley with thanks to Adams Media and the author to give an honest review after reading!
  
  Now this was a fun book! Kudos to Liv Albert.
  
  Most people won’t know how much Greek mythology has filtered into our lives, and I think people will be surprised on hearing how some modern day lingo has actually originated from greek mythology and how much they might already know in passing. I was surprised too, that plenty of everyday words and namings have their origin from this mythology.
  
  The references to popular culture was great, as it really helped to bring the old into the now and definitely helped me remember certain tidbits which I then tied the information to popular characters, tv or film.
  
  Each ‘character’ so to speak, has their own dedicate page, with information that was greatly communicated and easy to read. You definitely don’t need any prior knowledge on this subject as the author works perfectly at communicating this fairly complex field, going into a fair amount of detail and overview on each of the characters included.
  
  The info is given in a nice, nifty layout and I love the whole design of the book, along with the illustrations and pictures that go with them (they are just stunning!). It’s a very addicting book, and it’s so easy to keep reading on with ‘just one more chapter’, as each dedicated characters chapters are fairly short but informative, meaning you can easily get carried away with the story tellings. I couldn’t put the book down!
  
  There is a lot of gods, goddesses, heroes and mortals included in this book so it can get a bit overwhelming after a while trying to remember everything and all the wordy Greek names but the author is great at constantly linking characters together so there’s plenty of little recaps throughout.
  
  I loved reading about the stories attributed to each character, and the authors tongue in cheek way of writing was very engaging, fun and made for an overall great read. Really loved it and I learnt an awful lot about Greek mythology. Definitely worthy of a 5 star rating!
  
• 
  Delaney

  This is such a phenomenal addition to the podcast that Albert has put years of information and love into.
  I received this as an e-arc via NetGalley (thank you so much!) and the only "gripe" I have with it is that I would've loved to see even more art within the book, because all of the art that we do get is truly stunning and it simply left me wanting even more. It helps give this book the certain vibe that I think the author was going for.
  
  Taken as a book on its own without the art, I would also recommend this book to anyone who is new to Greek mythology, or who wants to own an info filled book with a ton of great information. This doesn't just focus on the main gods, you get so much more packed in, such as entries on Jason and Medea, as well as many more characters from within Greek myths that are more lesser known than Zeus or Poseidon.
  
  I'll be picking up a finished copy as soon as it's released so that I can have it to reference whenever I need to!
• 
  Yesenia (bookbrunette)

  I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
  
  This book offers a well-researched and detailed introduction to the characters in Greek mythology. The author, Liv Albert, does an excellent job presenting the major and minor players that appear in Greek mythos. The information is clearly and concisely explained, making the character and story summaries perfect for people new to the topic. It can also be used as an encyclopedia on the basics. The artwork by Sara Richard is just gorgeous! It's very colorful and beautifully done, truly capturing the essence of the material. The references to pop culture books and movies also help readers make connections to better understand the mythology. Overall, it's a very fun and easy-to-digest book. I recommend it to anyone interested or wanting to learn more about Greek mythology.