Myths and Legends: An Illustrated Guide to Their Origins and Meanings (DK Compact Culture Guides)

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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. Scientists estimate that the Japanese archipelago has been inhabited since prehistory. Its earliest legends emerged during the Jōmon period (1400-300 BCE), during which the nation was founded by the legendary Emperor Jimmu. As the Age of Humans’ Jōmon period immediately follows the “Age of the Gods” (per Shinto beliefs), it is safe to say that Japan has quite a bit of legendary history. Every Saturday at sunrise, the Stoor Worm would wake, open his cavernous mouth and yawn nine times. He would then demand a meal of seven virgins for as the old tales record: "although he was a venomous beast, he had a dainty taste."

Neil Gaiman is a prolific author as it is. He regularly draws inspiration from ancient mythologies for his works. When his Norse Mythology was announced, it became an instant classic. We all know the Greek gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus. In fact, Greek myths have had such an impact on Western culture that many know of the classic stories of ancient Greece. Most are well-versed in the legendary Trojan War and the mythological creatures that plagued poor Odysseus. Though, how much of Greek mythology do we really know? Like the last recommendation this is another book that, as a child, you feel must contain some kind of magic. The illustrations and design of the book are made to look an ancient artefact and the information is presented through the lens of an explorer (Emily Sands) as she hunts for the tomb of the god Osiris, which is a perfect way to get a child invested in learning about mythology. 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.Looking for information on the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Otherworld? The Book of Celtic Myths has it. Perhaps King Arthur in Celtic myth? Oh, absolutely. This book even covers Celtic Christianity! 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. Five of the remaining stories involve the legend of Arthur and his knights. The setting for Culhwych and Olwen is Arthur’s Court and includes a list of his knights. Arthur’s Court is again the setting in The Dream of Rhonabwy, which tells of a story involving Arthur and his knights, fairy heroes and Celtic warriors.

The 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. 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.

The Loch Ness Monster 

Most Japanese legends are based on Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Shinto is the older of the two and is considered widely as Japan’s indigenous religion.

Straight from Penguin Classics is this collection of Irish myths and legends, taken and translated from their 8th-century CE manuscript. Wonderfully capturing the legendary history of ancient Ireland, Early Irish Myths and Sagas are among the finest resources for early Celtic literature. Grandmothers of the Light uniquely tells 21 stories from numerous Native American civilizations. Gunn Allen connects these myths and the goddesses within them to the shamanic practices of Medicine Women within indigenous societies. By emphasizing feminine spirituality, Gunn Allen opens the door for discussions on the role of women in ancient indigenous societies. 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.Hardcover Women of Myth: From Deer Woman and Mami Wata to Amaterasu and Athena, Your Guide to the Amazing and Diverse Women from World Mythology by Jenny Williamson and Genn McMenemy