Goddesses and Heroines: Women of Myth and Legend
on Goodreads (76)
What’s inside...
Goddesses and Heroines is a collection of illustrated stories from around the world that celebrate female characters in ancient myths and legends. Performance storyteller Xanthe Gresham-Knight draws on original texts to tell the tales of inspirational female characters such as Aphrodite, Hecate, Mulan, Osun, and Baba Yaga. These stories highlight the power and relevance of these characters in cultures around the world and emphasize themes of imagination, political prowess, bravery, unity, and resilience. Illustrated in color throughout, this book is an essential read for young readers who love myth and storytelling.
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you admire most about your favorite heroine in the book, and why?
How do you think the world would be different if it was run by these goddesses and heroines?
What challenges do these characters face and how do they overcome them?
Can you think of someone you know who reminds you of one of the characters? What similarities do they share?
If you could have a power from any of the goddesses or heroines, which one would you choose and what would you do with it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, explore what your child already knows about myths and legends, and gauge their interest in goddesses and heroines.
As you go through the stories, encourage your child to predict how a goddess or heroine might resolve a challenging situation, fostering critical thinking.
Use the illustrations in the book to ask your child to describe what they see and feel about the goddesses’ and heroines’ environments, enhancing their observational skills.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This helps them express their understanding and connection to the story creatively.
Connect the stories to real-life events or people, making the narratives more relatable and impactful for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empowerment and Courage
Explanation: Through the stories of powerful goddesses and heroines, the book illustrates how women can overcome adversity and lead with bravery.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears and stand up for themselves and others, fostering a sense of courage and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Diversity and Inclusion
Explanation: The book represents women from various cultures and mythologies, showcasing a wide array of backgrounds and experiences.
Real-World Application: Children are exposed to global perspectives, promoting understanding and respect for people from different cultures and backgrounds in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Justice and Integrity
Explanation: Many stories in the book highlight the importance of doing what is right and fair, even under challenging circumstances.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of honesty and fairness, encouraging them to act ethically and stand up for justice in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The characters often face trials and tribulations, demonstrating perseverance and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain strong during difficult times and understand that perseverance can lead to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The narratives delve into the emotions and struggles of each character, fostering empathy and compassion.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop the ability to empathize with others' feelings and circumstances, enhancing their interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.