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(4)
4-6
Secrets of the Ancient Gods series.
Illustrated by
J. E. Larson.
The mighty Thor narrates this introduction to Norse mythology. The god guides us through a brief history of the Vikings, explains the myths' lasting influence, and offers retellings of the most famous Norse myths. Dark, moody pen-and-ink illustrations are a stark contrast to the lighter nature of the writing, which sometimes strains for its chatty humor. Bib., glos., ind.
128 pp.
| Boyds
| September, 2014
|
TradeISBN 978-1-62091-598-1$16.95
(4)
4-6
Secrets of the Ancient Gods series.
Illustrated by
J. E. Larson.
Hades takes us on a tour of the Underworld, pointing out the famous mythological figures found there, many suffering punishments. He begins by describing ancient Greek funeral rites before moving on to the different areas of the House of Hades. The pen-and-ink illustrations lend an appropriately gloomy look to the book, but Shecter's attempts at humorous dialogue fall flat. Bib., glos., ind.
327 pp.
| Scholastic/Levine
| May, 2014
|
TradeISBN 978-0-545-50993-0$17.99
|
EbookISBN 978-0-545-50994-7
(4)
YA
Set in the weeks leading up to Vesuvius's eruption, this love story follows a young Roman couple as their forbidden love blossoms. The historical setting is carefully researched and provides an interesting backdrop to the tale. However, stock characters (obstinate father, conniving rich boy, naive maiden, noble slave) detract from the otherwise richly detailed narrative.
116 pp.
| Boyds
| October, 2013
|
TradeISBN 978-1-59078-995-7$16.95
(4)
4-6
Illustrated by
Antoine Revoy.
"Take cats for example. (Please. Take them. Far away from me. Seriously...)" The Egyptian god Anubis provides a tour through the Underworld, with details on what happens after a person dies and is judged by the gods; a detour explains mummification. The narrative's humorous tone is forced. Occasional black-and-white illustrations break up the large blocks of text. Bib., glos., ind.
356 pp.
| Scholastic/Levine
| August, 2011
|
TradeISBN 978-0-545-22130-6$18.99
(2)
YA
Cleopatra Selene, daughter of Cleopatra VII, is taken to Rome when Egypt is invaded and her parents die. There she carves out a life for herself, confronts hatred, finds love, and always seeks the power to reclaim Egypt as her rightful land. The large, complex story is an intelligently written and stately meditation on fate, free will, and political power.
Reviewer: Dean Schneider
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
September, 2011
128 pp.
| Boyds
| October, 2010
|
TradeISBN 978-1-59078-718-2$17.95
(4)
YA
Shecter begins with the premise that although everyone "from Shakespeare to Hollywood" has turned Cleopatra into a silly vixen, she was actually a heroic, brilliant woman. The teen-aimed narration is engaging and accessible but becomes a little grating (e.g., "Little bro and his advisors had a cow over being left behind"). Many artistic reproductions and maps help elucidate Cleopatra's history. Timeline. Bib., glos., ind.
128 pp.
| Darby Creek
| September, 2006
|
TradeISBN 1-58196-045-X$18.95
(4)
4-6
Illustrated by
Terry Naughton.
This irreverent portrait of Alexander will draw in young readers with its humor, accessibility, and insight (although it occasionally tries too hard to be hip and comes out sounding dated). The caricatured illustrations by animator Naughton accentuate the humor of the narrative. Timelines, maps, paintings, archival photographs, and other visuals help give historical context. Extensive source notes are included. Reading list, websites. Ind.