Astrologica

Offering an encyclopaedia of myths and legends about the planets and stars, ‘Astrologica’ is a fascinating read. Lavishly illustrated, it is perfect for introducing young readers to stories of the skies from around the world.

A glossary appears at the beginning of this book, allowing readers to familiarise themselves with the relevant terminology before as well as offering a convenient reference point whilst reading. A look at the origins of astrology sets the scene before a section on the ‘Myths of the Tropical Zodiac’ focuses on each star sign in turn, sharing its story as well as the attributes associated with that sign, the dates it covers, its symbol, constellation and element. Each myth is carefully retold and ‘Did You Know?’ sections offer additional information.

‘Myths of the Solar System’ and ‘Myths of the Stars’ follow, with tales from around the world celebrating celestial bodies and the people who observed and revered them. The author acknowledges the similarities and differences in how these planets and stars might be viewed by those in different places, but manages to convey a shared sense of awe and wonder for the skies above. These would make wonderful stories to share with a class, broadening children’s knowledge and deepening understanding of different cultures.

‘Star Knowledge Around the World’ explores how different cultures and countries have used the stars- like Maya astronomers, Inca sun worshipers and the Chinese zodiac. Full of fascinating details, there is so much to learn and enjoy!

The final section focuses on astrology today and how this differs from astronomy, encouraging readers to ponder about the subject. Sure to pique curiosity about the subject, this book is a real treasure trove of stories, accompanied by stunning illustrations- a perfect gift!

Astrologica

Suki Ferguson, illustrated by Camelia Pham

Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711293595

Mythical Tales

‘Mythical Tales’ is a wonderful collection of eighteen stories from across the world. Retold in a lively, accessible style, some of these are ancient tales of mythical beings or creatures and some are more modern, so called ‘national myths’, those invented to unite groups of people.

Each tale is beautifully illustrated, capturing a sense of the magic, mystery and excitement of each story and a short introduction from the author sets the scene. The collection feels as if each one has been chosen very carefully, to offer the reader a selection of different stories to those which are often told, making it an essential addition to any bookshelf.

‘The Story of Queen Libuse’, for example, retells a legend from the Czech Republic about a queen with magical powers, a national tale created to make people feel proud of their country. Part of the French epic, ‘The Song of Roland’, ‘Roland’s Breach’ is a story from medieval France, telling of the adventures of a brave knight whilst ‘Perun’s Stolen Cattle’ is a tale from Croatia about the on-going battle between Perun and Veles.

There are so many stories to enjoy in this delightful collection. Additional notes at the end of the book identify the sources used for each retelling, offering readers the possibility of further exploring these myths and seeing how the author has adapted them. It is a beautiful book for both home and school, where it might be used to enrich the curriculum.

Mythical Tales

Laura Sampson, illustrated by Lilla Bolecz

Templar Books ISBN: 978-1800788398

Published 25th September 2025

Celtic Myths

‘Celtic Myths’ is the latest in a series of books from DK celebrating these ancient stories. Beautifully presented, full of colourful illustrations, this book offers a wealth of tales from the Celtic people of Britain, Ireland and Brittany.

The tales are organised into five sections: Heroes, Warriors and Rulers; Love and Loyalty; Magic and Mystery; Poetry and Places; and About the Myths. The collection contains an excellent balance of better and less well-known stories, making this a wonderful book to offer those new to Celtic myths.

Each story has been carefully retold, true to the original (although there are, of course, many different versions of the same story!) , yet in a way which is accessible and absorbing for children. A pronunciation guide and glossary at the end of the book support understanding and there are pages scattered throughout which provide a focus on different characters from the stories, deepening the reader’s knowledge and making links between myths.

The ‘About the Myths’ section is full of additional details with themed pages about, amongst other things, mythical places, heroes and families. Each section is gorgeously illustrated, sure to catch interest and spark imagination as, whether they are being introduced to these magical stories for the first time or returning to them in a new collection, readers enjoy this selection of Celtic Myths.

Celtic Myths: Meet the Gods, Creatures and Heroes of Celtic Legend

Martin Macintyre, illustrated by Katie Ponder

DK ISBN: 978-0241740255

You can read my review of ‘Egyptian Myths’ here.

Mighty Myths and how to survive them

‘Mighty Myths and how to survive them’ offers a fantastic introduction to myths and legends from around the world. Beautifully presented, it is a treat from start to finish!

A note from the publisher at the beginning of the book makes the point that although this book presents myths in a fun way, these stories are of great significance to some societies and religions, something very important to remember when sharing myths and legends and yet something rarely mentioned.

Two ravens, a bird often featured in mythology, act as guides to the collection, leading the reader through a wealth of detail about these stories and the characters, creatures and locations they contain. Ingeniously presented in a range of engaging and humorous way, this book is a treasure trove for budding myth-lovers as well as those already familiar with these stories! A ‘Mythological Height Chart’ shows a line-up of legendary creatures, including our raven guides, and gives details about their appearance and where they can be found. Other spreads which compare elements of different stories and beliefs include the ‘God Food Guide’, ‘Amazing Objects of Power’ and ‘Who will eat you?’.

The book also includes retellings of some myths like the story of the spider goddess from the Ainu people of Japan and Wily Frog from the Kamaiura people of the Brazilian Amazon as well as pages which focus on particular characters or story elements. The Chimaera, Mishipeshu and the Sasabonsam are identified as creatures to avoid whilst Atalanta and Hou Yi feature on two of the ‘A Hero Like’ pages.

There is so much to explore and enjoy in this excellent introduction to some of the world’s mythology. Brilliantly illustrated, highly engaging and full of fun, this stunning book with its gold-foiled cover would make a very special present at any time of the year!

Mighty Myths and how to survive them

Thiago de Moraes

Alison Green Books ISBN: 978-0702325090

Published 8th May 2025

You can read my review of ‘Old Gods, New Tricks’ here, ‘Let Sleeping Gods Lie’ here and ‘History Atlas’ here.

NNFN2024: Into the Volcano

Offering a comprehensive introduction to volcanoes, ‘Into the Volcano’ is an accessible and absorbing read. The book starts by explaining what a volcano is, how they are formed and where in the world they are located. Concise and clearly written, this- and the next which looks at unusual volcanoes (those underwater, in space and those which cause strange eruptions) -section is perfect for supporting children studying volcanoes in KS2, for teachers teaching about them- and indeed, for anyone with an interest in the subject!

The next two sections of the book are devoted to exploring the cultural significance of volcanoes, offering richness and colour to the subject, taking it beyond the confines of the curriculum. Through looking at the stories, myths and legends connected to volcanoes, readers discover how they have shaped the beliefs of people around the world, including a creation story of the Māori people, the Hawaiian volcano goddess, Pele and the Icelandic sorceress, Katia. Volcanoes have also influence the arts. Readers are sure to be inspired to seek out some of the works of art mentioned and be fascinated by the story behind the quality of the sound of a Stradivarius violin!

The book concludes with a chapter on living with volcanoes today, learning from the past and valuing the gifts volcanoes offer as well as respecting them. Beautifully illustrated throughout, ‘Into the Volcano’ offers so much more than the science behind these amazing natural wonders, making it a fascinating and very readable addition to any bookshelf.

Into the Volcano

Catherine Ard, illustrated by Wenjia Tang

Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838741754

You can read my review of ‘Yellowstone’ by Catherine Ard here.

The Magic of Forests

Join Mimi cat as she leads the reader into the fascinating world of forests, learning about their secrets and their treasure. Starting by defining what a forest is and looking at the differences between woodlands, forests and jungles, the author then introduces the reader to the different types of forests which can be found. There is much to discover on each page!

The beauty and magic of trees, the abundance of nature which they sustain and the wonderful benefits they offer people are all celebrated in this lovely book. There is plenty of scientific information for those with a passion for finding answers- the detailed index and glossary making location information very easy- but the book also explores some of the fabulous folklore and fairy tales told about these magical places.

Each spread is beautifully illustrated with the information presented in accessible sections with clear side headings to tempt and guide. Quizzes and ideas for activities add yet more to what is a really lovely, fascinating book.

The Magic of Forests:

A Fascinating Guide to Forests Around the World

Vicky Woodgate

DK ISBN: 9780241625880

You can read my review of ‘The Magic of Seasons’ here.