A-maze-ing Minotaur

Retold by Juliet Nix, illustrated by Juliet Snape
Frances Lincoln Children’s Books
ISBN: 9781847804310           RRP: $24.95

This is a version of the Greek myth about Theseus and the Minotaur; maze is a reference to the Labyrinth below the palace of King Minos of Crete, where the monster Minotaur was kept. The telling is straightforward, focussing on the courage of Theseus rather than the horror of the Minotaur and the cruelty of Minos. The illustrations are inspired by the artwork of ancient Knossus, on Crete, using stylised forms and bright colouring. It includes a maze game that leads Theseus to the place where he will encounter the Minotaur which later shows the golden thread leading back to the door where Ariadne awaits. This version is suitable for 5 to 8 year olds and an exciting initiation to the thrilling stories of ancient mythology.