The Book of Oni and Other Mischievous Spirits delves into the makings of these infamous entities within Japanese myths. As it turns out, there is a lot more to the Oni than being giant, horned, and red. Some were once even people or animals. The functions and unique behaviors of the Oni in myths can all be found in this totally not frightening folklore book! Chinese Mythology: Classic Stories of Chinese Myths, Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Monsters by Scott Lewis 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.

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. 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 Exactly how these stories found their way into the written form is unclear, however the tales range from Celtic mythology to the better known accounts of the adventures of Arthur and his knights.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. Ancient civilizations from around the world have their own unique mythologies. With these myths and legends, you’ll come across a slew of gods, heroes, and supernatural forces. The best overall mythology books out there will retell beloved myths without getting anything twisted. Below we’ll cover 37 of the best mythology books out there. The Stoor Worm, or Mester Stoor Worm, was a gigantic evil sea serpent in Orcadian folklore, capable of contaminating plants and destroying animals and humans with its putrid breath. It is probably an Orkney variant of the Norse Jormungandr, also known as the Midgard Serpent, or world serpent, and has been described as a sea dragon.

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 one can imagine, Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology can tell the reader a Norse legend or two. Told in unmistakable prose with a spot-on characterization of the gods, Gaiman’s book breathes new life into the myths of ancient Scandinavia. Some 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. Greek, Mesopotamia, Egypt & Rome: Fascinating Insights, Mythology, Stories, History & Knowledge From The World’s Most Interesting Civilizations & Empires by History Brought Alive Alongside gorgeous art by Kotaro Chiba, Tales of Japan: Traditional Stories of Monsters and Magic regales the audience with 15 folktales. All tales are derived from earlier 20th-century collections by Lafcadio Hearn and Yei Theodora Ozaki. Organized between “Journeys,” “Ghosts and Monsters,” and “Justice,” each chapter within this book offers insight into the oral traditions of ancient Japan.

The Ghost Piper of Clanyard Bay 

Hardcover Egyptian Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Goddesses, and Traditions of Ancient Egypt by Geraldine Pinch Every Saturday at sunrise, the Stoor Worm would wake, open his cavernous mouth and yawn nine times. He would then demand a meal of seven virgins for as the old tales record: "although he was a venomous beast, he had a dainty taste."

Neil Gaiman is a prolific author as it is. He regularly draws inspiration from ancient mythologies for his works. When his Norse Mythology was announced, it became an instant classic. If you’re a fan of mythology and are interested in learning more about the women of world myths, this book is for you. Information about goddesses, heroines, queens, and monsters is paired with gorgeous art by Sara Richard. You’ll get a pronunciation guide, appearances, and alternative names these important figures go by. With its concise delivery and clear organization, Women of Myth is a book fit for audiences from all walks of life. 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.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 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.

Africa is home to some of the most diverse and extensive mythologies in the world. It is the continent where mankind got its start 250,000 to 300,000 years ago, so you better believe there are some ancient tales to be told. 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. To tell new stories using ancient myths is to gently guide readers towards doors that lead into other times, places and peoples. If they find a door interesting, they can step through it via other books and stories, and spend more time in these wonderful worlds. This illustrated guide to some of the world’s most fascinating mythologies is no joke. The audience is provided with illustrations, photos, maps, and charts that enrich their current understanding of global myths. Covering everything from a civilization’s creation story to its cultural heroes, World Mythology: The Illustrated Guide gives the audience all the information a mythology aficionado could hope to gain. Brooklyn House Magician’s Manual: Your Guide to Egyptian Gods & Creatures, Glyphs & Spells, and More

Corryvreckan Whirlpool 

Below are the best Greek mythology books that shed new light on some of the Western world’s most ancient myths and legends. Circe by Madeline Miller From the Protodynastic to the Ptolemaic Period, Egyptian Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Goddesses, and Traditions of Ancient Egypt explores ancient gods and the people that worshiped them. Described as straightforward with casual narration, Native American Myths is a good starting point for those looking to take a dive into Native American mythology. If you’re looking for a beginner’s guide to Norse mythology without the fluff, look no further. The Viking Spirit: An Introduction to Norse Mythology and Religion is as easy to understand as it is informative. That, and you’ll get 34 – trust us, that’s a lot – myths retold.