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.

Mythology fans who fancy the idea of mythological heroes facing off against each other will be intrigued by this well- written, stimulating series. The set pits pairs of legendary combatants from diverse mythological traditions against each other, though not necessarily physically or on battlefields. Each fact-packed title includes five chapters written with lively, terse sentences that ensure smooth reading and heighten reader interest. New vocabulary is boldfaced and defined in the glossary; the deities’ names and other words from the languages of the myths’ origins are also defined. From the outset, each book compares the gods’/goddesses’ dominions, abilities, personalities, etc., to excite readers about who’s more powerful and, thus, who might “come out on top.” Deities’ weaknesses are also mentioned. Volumes cite the heroes’ origins, include snippets of stories in which they figure, and discuss their similarities. Media representation is noted. Artwork includes statuary and captioned black-and-white and color illustrations; sidebars present additional facts. An excellent sum-up feature is included in each volume, which provides a final comparison of each opponent’s strengths, weaknesses, appearances, weapons, powers, etc. VERDICT Students will learn about and compare different cultures’ mythologies, understand myths are universal, and recognize different cultures value similar human traits. A fascinating series recommended for school and public libraries.

This exciting series will appeal to mythology fans and those who fancy the idea of superheroes duking it out—figuratively. Its clever premise stimulates critical thinking and sparks conversations and debates. Students must read the lively, fact-packed, well-written narratives in each volume and pit the back stories, roles, weapons, powers, personalities, and weaknesses/vulnerabilities of the paired mythological heroes (from ­diverse mythological traditions) against each other in “combat” and then determine the victor. They’ll learn a lot about these super-beings along the way. Commendably, the series demonstrates power and strength aren’t necessarily functions of physical strength only, but also of ethics, character, and mental and emotional might. The books emphasize the gods’ human qualities as well as their otherworldly ones. Hopefully, students will self-reflect on ideas such as: what’s most important: intelligence, talents, physical/mental/emotional/moral strength? Combinations of these? Are some more crucial in certain situations than in others? The narratives’ terse, punchy sentences are written in a conversational tone, making for smooth, tension-filled reading; one gets a sense that the battles are about to begin. Bold graphics include attractive captioned b/w and color illustrations, and a fine back-matter feature, “___ vs. ___ at a Glance,” a side-by-side comparative summary of each combatant’s strengths, weapons, etc., is in itself a great discussion starter, as students judge which personality and other traits are most advantageous overall and in which “battles” certain qualities would be beneficial. Frequent sidebars throughout provide additional information and, where applicable, gods’ media appearances are noted. VERDICT A clever, well-executed means for getting students stoked about mythology. Highly recommended for school and public collections.