Fast Five Fiction: Mythology

It's FRIDAY! Which means it's time for Fast Five Fiction. Each week I'll be sharing 5 fiction books: new books, notable books, books around a common theme. This week I've got 5 of my favorite mythology series that would be perfect for summer reading for all ages. Click the title to be directed to the library's catalog.

Mini Myths by Joan Holub

The Mini Myths board book series puts a modern spin on ancient Greek mythology for preschoolers. Leslie Patricelli’s depictions of the physical comedy bring a lively visual narrative to Joan Holub’s expertly focused text. Each book includes a short summary of the original myth at the end. Perfect for babies, toddlers, and even early elementary students. 

Heroes in Training by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams

The terrible Titans—merciless giants who enjoy snacking on humans—have dominated the earth and put the world into chaos. But their rule is about to be put to the test as a group of young Olympians discover their powers and prepare to righteously rule the universe. These early chapter books are perfect for elementary age students.

Tales from the Odyssey series by Mary Pope Osborne

When Odysseus must leave his home to fight the Trojan War, he never imagines that he'll be away from his family for so many year. Now, at long last, he is leading his men home across the seas, but many dangers await them. This 6 book series retelling Homer's The Odyssey is perfect for upper elementary and middle school students. 

Rick Riordan's Mythology Series

While teaching English and History full time, Rick Riordan began writing mystery novels for grown ups. He turned to children's fiction when he started The Lightning Thief as a bedtime story for his oldest son. He continued on writing other stories based in Greek Mythology in the Percy Jackson Series and then the Heroes of Olympus, which is a blend of Greek and Roman Mythology. The Kane Chronicles features characters in Egyptian Mythology and the Magnus Chase series centers around Norse Mythology. His latest series, the Trials of Apollo is told in the perspective of the Greek God, Apollo. Today over one hundred millions copies of his books are in print in the United states. The books do present some life and death situations and are geared towards a slightly older audience so they are available in the YA department. Any violence present is not gratuitous.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians

The Heroes of Olympus

The Kane Chronicles

Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard

The Trials of Apollo

Rick Riordan Presents:

A new imprint from Rick Riordan called,  "Rick Riordan Presents" was launched in March 2018, highlighting cultures and mythologies from around the world. Riordan saw that there was a lot of interest in reading fantasy adventures based on different world mythologies, but also knew he wasn’t the best person to write them.His goal was to publish great books by middle grade authors from underrepresented cultures. They know their mythologies better than he does and it allows them to tell the stories inspired by the mythology and folklore of their own heritage. his role is more like a curator, finding authors that he felt like he could recommend to his readers. These books are for upper elementary on up. (I'm an adult and I still enjoy them!) 

Pandava Quartet by Roshani Chokshi (Hindu Mythology)

The Storm Runner series by J.C. Cervantes (Mayan Mythology)

Sal & Gabi series by Carlos Hernandez (Cuban Mythology)

Tristan Strong series by Kwame Mbalia (African American Mythology)

Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse (Navajo Mythology)

Paolo Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia (Mexican Mythology)

Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee (Korean Mythology)

Happy Friday and happy reading!