These breezy volumes in the Mythology Matchups series pit twosimilar deities from different ancient religions against each other to seewho comes out on top. Each title opens with a dramatic scene in whichits featured gods or goddesses arrive before moving into four chaptersthat typically provide snapshots of the deities’ origins, strengths, powers, and flaws, all of which are neatly summed up in concluding “Ata Glance” fact pages. The engaging writing will immediately draw inreaders, and well-chosen illustrations (many being reproductions ofartwork), fact bubbles, and ample white space will help to retain kids’ focus. The author also mindfully points out discrepancies betweenhistorical accounts and stories. Frigg vs. Aphrodite compares these famous beauties, highlighting Frigg’s primary role as a loving mother andAphrodite’s unparalleled command of love. Visit the underworld inHades vs. Anubis, which reveals Hades’ ability to become invisible andAnubis’ to shapeshift. Goddesses of the underworld get their due inHel vs. Persephone, which includes the enthralling stories of how thesewomen came to rule there. Odin vs. Ares hits the battlefield, wherethese war gods embody the notion of brains versus brawn, respectively.Greek and Norse mythologies see the most action in this high-interestseries, leaving it room to grow. As for the winners? Those are left forreaders to pick.