8 Books About Greek Mythology To Read In 2025

Greek mythology continues to inspire readers around the world with its timeless tales of gods, heroes, monsters, and epic quests. Below is a list of the 8 books about Greek mythology that will immerse you in the power, drama, and enchantment of the ancient world. Each title offers something unique — from scholarly detail to thrilling retellings — making them essential additions to any mythology lover’s collection.

1. Mythos by Stephen Fry

Mythos by Stephen Fry is a masterfully written retelling of the Greek creation myths and the origin stories of the gods. With his signature wit and clarity, Fry breathes modern life into these ancient tales, making them accessible to readers of all backgrounds. From the birth of Chaos to the rise of Zeus, every myth is recounted with rich character detail and entertaining commentary. Fry’s background in literature and comedy allows him to balance scholarship with amusement, offering readers a rewarding journey through Mount Olympus. Mythos is perfect for those looking to understand the myths with a contemporary perspective.

2. Greek Myths by Charlotte Higgins

Charlotte Higgins offers a fresh and feminist retelling of Greek myths through the voices of the women often sidelined in traditional versions. Greek Myths: A New Retelling emphasizes the stories of figures like Medusa, Circe, and Clytemnestra, giving them narrative agency and emotional complexity. Higgins weaves these myths together like a tapestry, forming a continuous and interconnected narrative. Her prose is both poetic and grounded, making these familiar tales feel revelatory and new. This book is ideal for readers who appreciate myth retellings with a strong literary voice and a focus on overlooked perspectives.

3. The Gods of Olympus by Barbara Graziosi

Barbara Graziosi’s The Gods of Olympus is not just a retelling of Greek myths—it’s a compelling historical analysis of how the Greek gods evolved over time. Tracing their journey from ancient Greece through the Roman Empire and Renaissance to modern pop culture, Graziosi examines how society has reshaped and reinterpreted these divine figures. The book combines scholarly rigor with accessible prose, making it ideal for readers interested in both mythology and history. It sheds light on how the Olympians remained relevant across centuries, reflecting cultural values and philosophical shifts. A fascinating read for those who want more than just the myths.

4. Circe by Madeline Miller

Miller’s lyrical prose and deep character exploration make this a captivating blend of fantasy and myth. Themes of isolation, empowerment, and transformation are richly explored as Circe interacts with famous figures like Hermes, Daedalus, and Odysseus. The novel offers a feminist reinterpretation of ancient myths, giving voice to a character long overshadowed by male heroes. A literary and mythological triumph.

5. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles reimagines the story of Achilles through the eyes of his closest companion and lover, Patroclus. Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, this novel blends myth with romance and emotional depth. Her writing is both poetic and poignant, capturing the intensity of their bond and the tragedy that follows. It’s an unforgettable retelling that resonates with both fans of historical fiction and lovers of Greek legends.

6. Pandora’s Jar by Natalie Haynes

Natalie Haynes's Pandora’s Jar reexamines the lives and legacies of women in Greek mythology. From Pandora and Medea to Helen and Phaedra, Haynes dismantles the patriarchal biases embedded in classical sources and highlights the strength, complexity, and often misunderstood nature of these characters. Written with wit, intelligence, and a historian’s eye, the book restores depth and agency to the women who have long been relegated to the sidelines of myth. Haynes blends scholarly research with accessible commentary, making the stories feel both modern and eternal. This is an essential read for anyone interested in gender, mythology, and classical reinterpretation.

7. Bulfinch's Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch

Bulfinch’s Mythology is a timeless compilation that blends Greek, Roman, and other classical myths into an elegant narrative. First published in the 19th century, this book remains a favorite for its literary style and educational approach. It includes retellings of famous myths such as Orpheus and Eurydice, Hercules, and the Trojan War, often linked to their influence on art and literature. This classic volume is perfect for those seeking both storytelling and cultural relevance.

8. Greek Mythology by David Stuttard

The book takes readers on a geographical journey through the key locations of ancient myths—Mount Olympus, Delphi, Athens, Crete, and Troy—while weaving in the legends associated with each place. Stuttard provides both historical context and rich retellings of stories, making the ancient world feel immediate and real. Maps, photographs, and site descriptions enhance the experience. Ideal for armchair travelers and mythology lovers alike, this book brings the legendary settings of Greek myths vividly to life.

Why Greek Mythology Still Matters

Greek mythology continues to captivate because it explores universal themes: love, revenge, pride, sacrifice, destiny, and transformation. The books listed above not only recount these stories but also interpret and revitalize them for modern readers, ensuring that their relevance endures.