While these two books don't stick as close to the traditional Greek myths as previous ones in the series, these retellings are nonetheless engaging and well written. McCaughrean's Hercules is a moody, depressed man, prone to violence when he drinks; her Theseus is an adventure-seeker who betrays those who love him to pursue his own glory. [Review covers these Heroes titles: Hercules and Theseus.] (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.

Gr 5-8-Geraldine McCaughrean's accessible retelling of the tale (Cricket, 2005) about Theseus brings to life the handsome, talented son of King Aegeus of Athens who slays the Minotaur (among his many accomplishments), is loved by Ariadne and the Amazon Queen Hippolyte, and finally gets his recompense from the curse that he asks the gods to place upon his beloved son. Cynthia Bishop narrates, and the full cast makes each of the characters unique with their own flaws and agendas. It is only when the narrators try to make the thoughts of each character distinct from their conversations that their voices seem artificial and tend to suspend the dramatic impact.-Edie Ching, Washington Latin Public Charter School, DC (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.