TITLE: Gods and Monsters: Mythological Poems
AUTHOR: Ana Sampson
PUBLISHER: Macmillan
ISBN: 978-1035023011
PODCAST EPISODE: None
REVIEWER: Tracey Norman
Stories have always helped us to make sense of the world around us, and many of those stories feature gods and monsters. Whether you’re creeping through a labyrinth in the hope of avoiding a minotaur, or watching in awe as Pegasus soars overhead, or having a helpful hint whispered in your ear by a deity amused by your endeavour, these familiar figures have threatened us, toyed with us, frightened us, taught us and inspired us for centuries.
Ana Sampson has gathered a beautiful collection of poetic observations, complemented by Chris Riddell’s lavish illustrations, in this visually appealing book. The balance of art and words gives each page unique interest, yet avoids being too busy, allowing the reader to focus on both the poetry and the images without one overpowering the other. There is certainly plenty to consider.
The poetry ranges from hilarious to deeply poignant. I was particularly struck by the observation that the most mundane of actions, such as wiping one’s eyes, can give pause and form a connection between the 21st century and a heartbroken queen. Another favourite was an amusing cautionary tale about Medusa, updated for the present day.
There are many voices in these poems beyond those of the hero and the omnipotent narrator. The gods and monsters also have their say, and I particularly enjoyed their voices and the fresh perspective they bring to their stories.
As I worked my way through the anthology, I frequently found myself pausing to consider new paths into familiar tales. No matter how well you think you know a story, there is always an angle you haven’t considered…
AUTHOR: Ana Sampson
PUBLISHER: Macmillan
ISBN: 978-1035023011
PODCAST EPISODE: None
REVIEWER: Tracey Norman
Stories have always helped us to make sense of the world around us, and many of those stories feature gods and monsters. Whether you’re creeping through a labyrinth in the hope of avoiding a minotaur, or watching in awe as Pegasus soars overhead, or having a helpful hint whispered in your ear by a deity amused by your endeavour, these familiar figures have threatened us, toyed with us, frightened us, taught us and inspired us for centuries.
Ana Sampson has gathered a beautiful collection of poetic observations, complemented by Chris Riddell’s lavish illustrations, in this visually appealing book. The balance of art and words gives each page unique interest, yet avoids being too busy, allowing the reader to focus on both the poetry and the images without one overpowering the other. There is certainly plenty to consider.
The poetry ranges from hilarious to deeply poignant. I was particularly struck by the observation that the most mundane of actions, such as wiping one’s eyes, can give pause and form a connection between the 21st century and a heartbroken queen. Another favourite was an amusing cautionary tale about Medusa, updated for the present day.
There are many voices in these poems beyond those of the hero and the omnipotent narrator. The gods and monsters also have their say, and I particularly enjoyed their voices and the fresh perspective they bring to their stories.
As I worked my way through the anthology, I frequently found myself pausing to consider new paths into familiar tales. No matter how well you think you know a story, there is always an angle you haven’t considered…