Known for her engaging and feminist retellings of classical myths, Honor Cargill-Martin is a historian of the ancient world who writes for children and teenagers as well as adults. In this board book we have the gift of her talents helping the youngest readers, ages 1 to 4, get an early start in their acquaintance with 26 Greek gods, goddesses, and heroes, from Aphrodite to Zeus.
We can imagine her plucking her words thoughtfully so that they will say just enough to lure in the very young. She describes Icarus as "Young boy who flew too close to the sun" and the Fates as "Three goddesses who wove the future." Other entries provide even shorter titles: Quick-witted Athena is "Goddess of Wisdom," and Xanthe is "Sea nymph" — for the often challenging Q and X entries.
Illustrator Kathleen Marcotte loves to create playful illustrations that can appeal to both children and adults. She has been recognized by the Society of Illustrators, American Illustration, and 3x3 magazine. Here is her reassuring image of Gaia:
It makes us smile to think of toddlers learning their ABCs alongside mythological figures who embody timeless archetypes and help humanity ponder our mysterious existence.
