Mythology Rocks!

Chinese myths have been passed down through the oral tradition for thousands of years. In many Chinese tales, there is no clear separation between the mythical and the real, between heaven and earth. These myths weave together figures from conflicting time periods, differing religions and philosophies. Author Irene Dea Collier, a native of China, has collected some of the most important traditional Chinese myths and presents them with an authentic appreciation for their unique characters, landscapes, and philosophies. Each of the stories is enhanced by the expert commentary of scholars and specialists in Chinese literature.

The gods and goddesses of Greek mythology have inspired painting, sculpture, literature and music, books and movies. Their stories continue to influence Western culture, despite the fact that the civilization that created them disappeared thousands of years ago. Author Michelle M. Houle skillfully weaves together the threads of the gods and goddesses of wars, love affairs, and personal quests for power, as well as their very creation. Each story is complemented by expert commentary written by scholars and specialists on Greek mythology.

From mere mortals facing the gods, to brave men and women taking on the most difficult of challenges, Greek mythology is full of exciting and dangerous adventure. These myths reflect the actions, problems, and feelings that are common to all human beings. Author Karen Bomemann Spies concentrates on the most well-known of the heroes, including Heracles, Atalanta, and Jason and the Argonauts. She explores the relationship between ancient Greek hero myths and modern-day fairy tales. Expert commentary and question-and-answer sections supplement each story.

African myths provide a rich understanding of the cultures that created these fascinating tales. Passed down through the generations, African myths were kept alive by a strong oral tradition. Author Linda Jacobs Altman weaves together traditional tales from seven different cultural groups, including those of Nigeria, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, the Kalahari, and Ghana. She focuses on the distinctions, as well as the similarities, among their lifestyles and legacies. Each of the stories in enhanced by the expert commentary of scholars, wonderful illustrations and a question-and-answer section.

The Celts conquered much of Europe by the first millennium B.C., making them one of the great founding cultures of European civilization. Their mythology is filled with beautiful heroes, gods and battles. Author Catherine Bernard has collected some of the most important myths of the Celtic world and presents them with an authentic appreciation for their unique characters, landscapes, and philosophies. Each of the stories is enhanced by expert commentary of scholars, wonderful illustrations and a question-and-answer section.

Author Michael A. Schuman retells some of the colorful tales of these fascinating people. He explores the similarities between the two civilizations, highlighting their myths about the creation of the world, the origin of men and women, the birth of music, and other intriguing tales. Each story includes a detailed introduction to the culture and beliefs of the ancient Maya and Aztec, as well as expert commentary written by scholars and specialists on their mythology.