Best Books About Mythology in 2026

Mythology is the oldest literature in the world. These books treat it seriously.

The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

Graves's two-volume work is the most comprehensive retelling and commentary on Greek mythology in the English language. Each myth is told in full, followed by Graves's analysis of its historical and anthropological origins. Some of Graves's interpretations are contested by modern classicists, but his mythological knowledge is unmatched and the prose is superb. The best reference for Greek mythology. Find The Greek Myths on Amazon.

Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman

Gaiman retells the major Norse myths -- from the creation of the world to Ragnarok -- in a voice that feels simultaneously ancient and contemporary. Not scholarly, but completely faithful to the Prose Edda sources while making them accessible to modern readers. The best introduction to Norse mythology for general readers. Find Norse Mythology on Amazon.

The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers

The transcript of Campbell's famous PBS interviews with Bill Moyers. Campbell draws connections across the world's mythologies, arguing that they express universal human experiences: the hero's journey, death and rebirth, the relationship between the human and the divine. Whether or not you accept Campbell's grand synthesis, his enthusiasm and knowledge are infectious. This book more than any other is responsible for the modern rediscovery of myth.

Mythology by Edith Hamilton

The classic introduction to Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology that has been in print for over seventy years. Hamilton's prose is clear and elegant, and she covers an enormous amount of material including many lesser-known myths that other anthologies skip. Still the best single-volume introduction for students and general readers. Find Mythology on Amazon.

The Penguin Book of Classical Myths by Jenny March

A scholarly but readable guide to the full range of classical mythology, with notes on variant versions and ancient sources. Excellent for readers who want to go beyond the standard retellings and understand the original texts. Stronger on context and historical background than most popular mythology books. Find The Penguin Book of Classical Myths on Amazon.