Written by Crispin Boyer
Published by Under the Stars (Nat. Geo. imprint), May 19, 2020
Review
What a splendid adaptation of the Theseus and the Minotaur legend! T examined each illustration carefully, now wants to name our next cat Athena, and commented frequently on the similarities between Boyer's story and the original legend.
Now that we have finished reading two Zeus the Mighty books, I'm doubling down on my endorsement of the anthropomorphism therein. Again, only animals representing mythological characters behave like their namesakes. Again, Boyer applies the events of the original legend to the setting of Mount Olympus Pet Center. Again, back matter informs readers of history and mythology. In the first book, Zeus was rather obnoxious (as one would imagine the god of thunder to be) and oblivious to his friend's feelings. In this second installment, Athena guides him to a more respectful appreciation of his comrades - I'd much rather read to T a main character evidencing growth than one who is disdainful of others. T, for his part, was eager for me to read aloud and wanted me to start the third book as soon as we finished
The Maze of the Menacing Minotaur. I was happy to read to him frequently and at long because the story is exciting and cute, the animals are inventive, and the mythology takes a starring role. And because several chapters ended on cliff-hangers! Zeus the Mighty and the Maze of the Menacing Minotaur
was an enjoyable read for this parent who might be more enamored with myths and legends than her child - it's a tossup, really.
I suggest accompanying the Zeus the Mighty books with some straight-up mythology. My favorite is D'Aulaires' Greek Myths, but T favors graphic novels like Medea Tells All. Whatever way you go,
Zeus the Mighty is fun for youngsters who like adventures or mythology.
At the rate we're going, you'll be reading our review of The Trials of Hairy-clees soon!
Extra:
Our review of Zeus the Mighty and the Quest for the Golden Fleas
What a splendid adaptation of the Theseus and the Minotaur legend! T examined each illustration carefully, now wants to name our next cat Athena, and commented frequently on the similarities between Boyer's story and the original legend.
Now that we have finished reading two Zeus the Mighty books, I'm doubling down on my endorsement of the anthropomorphism therein. Again, only animals representing mythological characters behave like their namesakes. Again, Boyer applies the events of the original legend to the setting of Mount Olympus Pet Center. Again, back matter informs readers of history and mythology. In the first book, Zeus was rather obnoxious (as one would imagine the god of thunder to be) and oblivious to his friend's feelings. In this second installment, Athena guides him to a more respectful appreciation of his comrades - I'd much rather read to T a main character evidencing growth than one who is disdainful of others. T, for his part, was eager for me to read aloud and wanted me to start the third book as soon as we finished
was an enjoyable read for this parent who might be more enamored with myths and legends than her child - it's a tossup, really.I suggest accompanying the Zeus the Mighty books with some straight-up mythology. My favorite is D'Aulaires' Greek Myths, but T favors graphic novels like Medea Tells All. Whatever way you go,
Zeus the Mighty is fun for youngsters who like adventures or mythology.
At the rate we're going, you'll be reading our review of The Trials of Hairy-clees soon!
Extra:
Our review of Zeus the Mighty and the Quest for the Golden Fleas
National Geographic has given Zeus his own website with a mythology podcast, artifact information, printables, and more.
Note: A review copy was provided upon request. All thoughts are our own.
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