Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold by Stephen Fry Review

Hello Readers,

Just a little note this book is just over the 15 free hours you get free on Spotify premium for audiobooks.  For me there was no other option than to have Stephen narrate this book to me, I think it might have been for the nostalgia.

 
Stephen Fry’s narration was simply perfect for me, but I will admit I am bias as I have a nostalgic love for his narration. There is no denying that Stephen is a good narrator and he effortlessly it feels like you are being read a simple story, and not just not having the myths told to you with no character. Stephen’s narration makes these Gods, Goddesses, demigods, and everyone they encounter come alive.
 
The book is witty and gripping but also extremely interesting without getting too dumpy. Mythos is a beautiful retelling of a couple of well-known myths. It’s pretty clear that Stephen is extremely knowledgeable in the myths and history that you can’t help but feel his enthusiasm for these myths, and it’s a little contagious. Stephen depicts each myth in a light and easy-to-listen-to manner.
 
Let’s be honest the Greek Gods are known for being mean, vindictive, and cruel. However, Stephen’s take on the Gods personalities of the gods made the slightly less horrid. Greek myths are timeless tales of love, lust, jealousy, power struggles and so much more. Stephen makes it clear that his goal with this book is simply to relate the stories, not to interpret them, but its obvious that he has thoroughly researched this book and has not undertaken this project lightly.
 
The book takes us readers rapidly through the family tree of Ouranos and Gaia, which is filled with Gods and Goddesses some you may recognise as well as some well-known mythical beasties. I will honestly say I NEVER thought I would hear Stephen Fry say “Kronos had flung the Sky Father’s junk” I don’t think I need I complete quote for you to want to read this book.
 
I would recommend this book to anyone who has an interest about ancient Greek mythology no matter their previous knowledge of Greek myths.

L x

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