Icarus Was Ridiculous

Icarus was Ridiculous by Pamela Butchart is published in collaboration with the British Museum. This book retells some of the most dramatic Greek Myths in a modern and humorous way. Izzy, the main character, is extremely knowledgeable about Greek mythology and throughout the book enlightens her friends with stories which relate to characters from the myths when they do something to remind her about them. From Zach being portrayed as Icarus for not listening to the teacher when on a school trip, to Jodie being obsessed with taking selfies being compared to Narcissus. The myths are retold through the language of a child and very modern comparisons are used to make the myths more light-hearted. For instance, when Izzy recalls the story about Helen of Troy leaving the house after Paris is killed, she explains that it is because King Priam had tried to give her a perm(!). There are some superb illustrations by Thomas Flintham that enable the reader to engage in the book more. I found the language of the book easy to comprehend and the stories entertaining and feel that it would be perfect for lower key stage 2 pupils, as it makes the myths very easy to understand. This would be a great accompaniment for children learning about Ancient Greece, or an excellent book to promote pleasure for reading. 272 pages / Ages 7+ / Reviewed by Hayley Summerfield, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+