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. 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 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. 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.

Leave it to a former lecturer at Oxford University to write one of the best mythology books on the market! 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. None of this is a surprise. These are stories that have captivated millions of people for thousands of years and continue to do so, both in traditional and more contemporary formats.

Hardcover Mythology (75th Anniversary Illustrated Edition): Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton Parizi’s Japanese Mythology strives to build a bridge between Japanese mythology and the more mainstream mythologies of the Western world. First accounting for Japan’s history, Parizi goes on to tell the audience several myths and their interpretations. In case you’re worried about mispronouncing or misunderstanding words, the terminology you will need to know is provided. 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. Norse mythology boasts some of the most beloved Norse gods and goddesses of the ancient world. Despite this, what we really know about the Old Norse religion is still debated.

Even better? Children of Blood and Bone isn’t only a great read for students. Adeyemi’s masterful storytelling is sure to appeal to audiences of all ages. 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 The four ‘mabinogi’ tales, from which the Mabinogion takes its name, are thought to be the earliest dating from the 11th century. These include:- Pwyll, which tells of how a Prince of Dyfed takes the place of the King of the Underworld; Branwen, which tells how the unjust treatment of a queen starts a war in Ireland; Manawydan involves overcoming an enchanter and the rescue of a mother and child, and Math the Lord of Gwynedd who ends up turning his nephews into beasts. Illustration: Helen Ward The Book of Yokai: Mysterious Creatures of Japanese Folklore by Michael Dylan Foster and Shinonome KijinIn all, Japanese Mythology is an informative audiobook for those interested in learning more about traditional Japanese myths.

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. Not only will The Codex Borgia: A Full-Color Restoration of the Ancient Mexican Manuscript shed new light on pre-Columbian religions of Mexico, it is a must for any history buff to get their hands on! 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. It is also worth adding that The Kane Chronicles is getting its very own Netflix adaptation. The release date has yet to be announced – we are certainly keeping an eye out for it! Egyptian Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Goddesses, and Traditions of Ancient Egypt by Geraldine PinchSome topics discussed are not advised for younger audiences, but that does not take away from the heart-aching beauty of The Woman Warrior. A catharsis in and of itself, Hong Kingston’s story adds further insight into the complexity of Chinese mythology and its impact. 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. As with most things, religion and beliefs shift with the passage of time. Some folklore is adapted to an ever-changing world. We’ve gathered four of the top-notch mythology books on ancient Egyptian myth. Conceptions of God in Ancient Egypt: The One and the Many by Erik Hornung