Like many other mythologies we’ll be discussing, Celtic mythology had almost been lost to time. As a culture that relied on oral tradition as means to communicate valued stories, the Celts were among the many ethnic groups that were susceptible to fragmented history. And, it wasn’t by their own doing, either. Egyptian Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Goddesses, and Traditions of Ancient Egypt by Geraldine Pinch Chinese mythology is known for its colorful characters and magical settings. Drawing inspiration from early Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist beliefs, traditional Chinese mythology was originally passed on through oral traditions. Therefore, much of Chinese mythology acts as a base for broader Chinese folk religion. Note that most works translated into Early Irish Myths and Sagas are from the Ulster Cycle. They shine a limelight on the folklore surrounding the hero, Cú Chulainn. A short read, this book gets the job done without being too overbearing.

Human creativity is one of the markers of our species. There are countless dazzling tales from around the world; folklore, fairy tales, myths, and legends alike. To tell new stories using ancient myths is to gently guide readers towards doors that lead into other times, places and peoples. If they find a door interesting, they can step through it via other books and stories, and spend more time in these wonderful worlds. That’s right: Circe, the witch that turned Odysseus’ crew into swine and took the Greek hero as a lover. However, Circe is given depth in Miller’s work. By the end of the story, the reader will have gained a new perspective of Greek myth, the power of choice, and what it means to go against the grain. There are several things to look out for when searching for the best overall mythology books. A good mythology book captures the heart of myths. These tales are timeless. These gods? Ancient! It takes nothing short of the real deal to share the stories of old with a new generation.Matt Clayton’s Native American Myths acts as a crash course for Native American mythology. The reader will get the low-down on several myths and legends from an array of Native tribes. On top of this, Clayton discusses heroes, supernatural beings, deities, creation myths, and beliefs revolving around death and rebirth. Described as straightforward with casual narration, Native American Myths is a good starting point for those looking to take a dive into Native American mythology. Africa is home to some of the most diverse and extensive mythologies in the world. It is the continent where mankind got its start 250,000 to 300,000 years ago, so you better believe there are some ancient tales to be told.

The Kojiki is one of the oldest chronicles of Japanese myths, legends, heroes, gods, and history. Initially written in the 8th century CE, The Kojiki is considered one of the most important books of Shinto . It takes note of the kami, the creation of Japan, and the Imperial lineage until Empress Suiko in 628 CE. Being inspired by myths in our own storytelling also allows us to present different cultures in ways that are informal, unexpected and exciting. Reading the myths of Sedna, the sea goddess, we find ourselves immersed in the icy, sometimes harsh world of the Inuit in a way that a list of facts about Arctic fishing would never be able to replicate. Myths and legends are the stories we tell about ourselves: how we came to be, what we care about, the ways in which we behave, the ideas and places that are important to us. Either religious or secular, myths are fundamental to our sense of self, and that is why reading (or listening to) myths from different cultures is a fantastic way to get a bit closer to people and places which might not be that familiar to us. Oftentimes called “Ireland’s greatest Epic,” the Tain (Táin Bó Cuailnge) is a part of the Ulster Cycle. It was first written in the 8th century CE. The Codex Borgia: A Full-Color Restoration of the Ancient Mexican Manuscript by Gisele Díaz and Alan RodgersThe king of one country threatened by the beast's arrival was advised to offer it a weekly sacrifice of seven virgins. In desperation the king eventually issued a proclamation offering his kingdom, his daughter's hand in marriage and a magic sword to anyone who could destroy the monster. Much of the mythology does span centuries of Chinese history as well. A sprinkling of monsters and Chinese gods within historical events is pretty standard. Chinese Mythology: Classic Stories of Chinese Myths, Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters by Scott Lewis Illustration: Helen Ward The Book of Yokai: Mysterious Creatures of Japanese Folklore by Michael Dylan Foster and Shinonome Kijin Based on archaeological evidence discovered in numerous tombs, Egyptian mythology dates to at least 4000 BCE. However, throughout history, other mythologies made their way to North Africa through extensive trade. With the natural sharing of ideas and beliefs, mythology evolved. At some point, Greco-Roman gods were introduced, expanding the Egyptian pantheon.

This audiobook by Scott Lewis dives into several Chinese myths, deities, mythical creatures, and traditional festivals. Each chapter is devoted to its own topic, making the piece easily digestible. With a 3-hour listening time, Chinese Mythology: Classic Stories of Chinese Myths, Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters is a great way to learn about the basics of Chinese mythology at your own pace. We get it: this sounds like a pretty intimidating undertaking for those who are newer to Japanese mythology. Thankfully, with translations provided by Gustav Heldt, the origins of traditional Japanese myths have never been more accessible. The passage of time paired with occupation and assimilation at the hands of the Romans meant that many Celtic myths were either forgotten or tailored to fit a new narrative. Still, a lot of Celtic mythology has managed to survive. It is best remembered through Middle Age manuscripts detailing the Ulster Cycle, the Mythological Cycle, the Fenian Cycle, and the Cycle of the Kings. Chinese Mythology: Classic Stories of Chinese Myths, Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters by Scott Lewis The Mabinogion is based upon a 14th century manuscript known as ‘Red book of Hergest’. The work is a collection of eleven tales of early Welsh literature and draws upon the mystical word of the Celtic people intertwining myths, folklore, tradition and history.

Many books have brought inspiration from myths into new times and places. Recent examples include the Who Let the Gods Outseries by Maz Evans, Louie Stowell’s Loki series and Davina Tijani and Adam Douglas-Bagley’s Yomi and the Fury of Ninki Nanka. They all bring some of the strength and magic of legend closer to today’s readers in different and exciting formats.