10+ Best Greek Mythology Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the epic tales of gods and heroes to your young reader? Look no further! Our curated list of Greek mythology books for 10-year-olds is packed with captivating stories that bring ancient myths to life. Whether your child is a budding historian or a fantasy enthusiast, they'll be gripped by the adventures that await. Keep reading to discover our top picks for Greek mythology books that are sure to enchant and educate.

Fun Greek Mythology Books for 10-Year-Olds

• D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths by Ingri d'Aulaire and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive introduction to Greek mythology includes stories of gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters, beautifully illustrated to bring ancient tales to life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's visually engaging with detailed illustrations that captivate young readers, making the complex world of Greek mythology accessible and enjoyable.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories filled with adventure and magical beings.

• Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod and is thrust into a world of Greek gods and creatures. He embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods by finding Zeus's stolen lightning bolt.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor, suspense, and action, making Greek mythology relatable and exciting for modern kids.
  • Perfect for: Adventure seekers and those who enjoy a good mix of humor and mythological tales.

• Goddess Girls: Athena the Brain by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Athena is invited to attend Mount Olympus Academy, where she meets other gods and goddesses as students. She navigates the challenges of school life and her new powers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents Greek mythology in a school setting, making it relatable to young readers while introducing them to classic myths in a fun way.
  • Perfect for: Kids who like stories about school adventures and magical abilities.

• Treasury of Greek Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses, Heroes & Monsters by Donna Jo Napoli, illustrated by Christina Balit
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book offers a fresh look at the famous tales of Greek mythology, from the stories of Apollo to Zeus, accompanied by stunning artwork.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's educational yet captivating, with rich narratives and beautiful illustrations that enhance the mythical stories.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate art and storytelling and are curious about the origins of Greek myths.

• The Heroes of Olympus: The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Three new heroes—Jason, Piper, and Leo—discover their true identities and powers, embarking on a quest to rescue Hera, who has been kidnapped.
  • Why we recommend this book: It continues the excitement of the Percy Jackson series with new characters and adventures, deepening the exploration of Greek and Roman mythology.
  • Perfect for: Fans of Percy Jackson and new readers looking for thrilling adventures intertwined with mythical lore.

Educational Greek Mythology Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Mythology by Lady Hestia Evans, edited by Dugald A. Steer, and illustrated by Nick Harris, Nicki Palin, and David Wyatt
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Educational
  • Synopsis: Presented as a recently discovered scrapbook, this book provides a fascinating introduction to Greek mythology through the eyes of a fictional 19th-century scholar. It includes interactive elements like flaps, pop-ups, and pull-outs.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, interactive learning, historical context
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes learning about myths highly engaging with its interactive format and detailed illustrations, helping children visualize and remember the stories.
  • Perfect for: Interactive learners and children who enjoy a hands-on approach to history and storytelling.

• The Iliad and The Odyssey by Marcia Williams
  • Genre(s): Classic, Mythology, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This book adapts Homer’s epic tales into comic strip format, making the complex stories accessible and entertaining for young readers.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of epic narratives, literary adaptation, cultural history
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills complex epics into digestible parts for children, presenting them in a fun and engaging way with lively illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy dynamic and visually engaging formats like comics and graphic novels.

• Favorite Greek Myths by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Troy Howell
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Classic Tales
  • Synopsis: This collection features retellings of popular Greek myths, including the adventures of Perseus, Theseus, and Hercules, with warm and appealing illustrations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mythological knowledge, narrative skills, cultural appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: Osborne’s storytelling brings these ancient tales to life in a way that is both educational and captivating for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who love storytelling and exploring heroic tales.

• Oh My Gods! A Look-It-Up Guide to the Gods of Mythology by Megan E. Bryant
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Reference
  • Synopsis: This is a handy reference book that provides profiles on the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology, including their powers, adventures, and family relationships.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Research skills, understanding of mythological figures, relational connections
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a great resource for quick look-ups and offers a comprehensive overview of Greek deities in a straightforward, easy-to-understand format.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy fact-checking and learning about the characteristics of different gods and goddesses.

• Greek Myths: Meet the Heroes, Gods, and Monsters of Ancient Greece by Jean Menzies, illustrated by Katie Ponder
  • Genre(s): Mythology, History
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to the fascinating world of Greek myths, focusing on both well-known and lesser-known stories, beautifully illustrated to capture the imagination.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural literacy, historical knowledge, artistic appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fresh take on Greek mythology with vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling that make the ancient tales accessible and interesting.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a keen interest in history and mythology, and those who appreciate artistic illustrations.

Challenging Greek Mythology Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Heroes in Training: Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Ten-year-old Zeus is kidnapped by Titans, and with the help of other young gods and goddesses, he embarks on an adventure to find the magical thunderbolt and save the world.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex themes of destiny and heroism intertwined with Greek mythology, presenting a nuanced narrative that challenges young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastic blend of excitement and mythology, offering a thrilling adventure that also educates about the roles and stories of ancient Greek deities.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy action-packed stories and learning about mythology through adventurous narratives.

• The Adventures of Odysseus by Hugh Lupton and Daniel Morden, illustrated by Christina Balit
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This book retells the epic journey of Odysseus from the Trojan War back to his home in Ithaca, facing numerous challenges including the Cyclops, Circe, and the Sirens.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses a rich, narrative style to convey complex themes such as loyalty, perseverance, and the consequences of hubris, requiring advanced comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It brings the epic tale to life with vivid storytelling and stunning illustrations, making ancient stories appealing and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers interested in classic tales of adventure and heroism.

• The Oracle Betrayed by Catherine Fisher
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in a fictional world inspired by ancient Greece, this story follows Mirany, a young priestess who becomes entangled in a dangerous political and spiritual intrigue surrounding the Oracle.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a complex plot with layered characters and themes of faith, power, and betrayal, which are sophisticated for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping and thought-provoking narrative that encourages critical thinking about morality and leadership.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a mix of suspense, mythology, and intricate storytelling.

• Atticus the Storyteller's 100 Greek Myths by Lucy Coats, illustrated by Anthony Lewis
  • Genre(s): Mythology, Adventure, Folklore
  • Synopsis: Atticus the Storyteller journeys through ancient Greece, telling stories of gods, heroes, and monsters. Each myth is short but packed with adventure and moral lessons.
  • Why this book is challenging: The collection includes a wide range of myths, some lesser-known, which introduces complex ideas and a broad vocabulary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a comprehensive introduction to Greek myths, presented in a fun and accessible way that encourages sequential learning and retention.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love a good story and are eager to explore a wide array of mythological tales.

• Lost in the Labyrinth by Patrice Kindl
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This novel reimagines the myth of the Minotaur, focusing on a young girl named Xenodice who tries to help her brother, the Minotaur, escape his fate in the labyrinth.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores themes of family loyalty and ethical dilemmas through a dense and emotionally driven plot, requiring mature understanding from readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique perspective on a classic myth, deepening understanding of the emotional and moral complexities within Greek mythology.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a deep, character-driven story that challenges their thinking and emotions.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! Diving into Greek mythology can be an exciting adventure for 10-year-olds, filled with heroes, gods, and mythical beasts. To make this reading journey even more engaging and beneficial, here are some exercises designed to develop good reading habits while exploring these ancient stories. Each exercise is simple, fun, and tailored to help young readers get the most out of their books.

• Create a Myth Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that includes the various locations from the Greek myths read.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the setting and spatial awareness within the stories.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to differentiate between the worlds of gods, humans, and monsters.

• Character Connection Chart
  • What it is: Make a chart to connect different characters and their relationships.
  • How it helps: Helps in keeping track of the numerous characters and their complex relationships in Greek mythology.
  • Tips: Update the chart as new characters are introduced in the stories.

• Mythical Creature Catalog
  • What it is: Create a catalog or booklet featuring various mythical creatures encountered in the stories.
  • How it helps: Encourages attention to detail and aids in visual memory.
  • Tips: Include drawings or descriptions of each creature, along with a note about which story they appear in.

• Story Summarizer
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each myth after reading.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the stories.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and highlight major events and outcomes.

• Question Quiver
  • What it is: Keep a list of questions about the stories to research or discuss later.
  • How it helps: Stimulates curiosity and deeper understanding of the content.
  • Tips: Look up answers together with a parent or teacher, or discuss them in a group.

• Mythology Match-Up
  • What it is: Match quotes or events from the book with the characters or myths they belong to.
  • How it helps: Enhances recall and helps in understanding the narrative's context.
  • Tips: Play this as a game with friends or family members who are also reading the books.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about making reading a dynamic part of learning and fun. By engaging actively with the texts, young readers can develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of Greek mythology, setting a strong foundation for lifelong reading habits. So, grab those books, and let's get mythical!