About the Book

Where do we come from? Why do stars shine and the seasons change? What is evil? Since the beginning of time, people have answered these and other questions with stories, which in turn have been passed down through the ages. In Don’t Know Much About® Mythology, Kenneth Davis introduces and explains the great myths of the world, as well as the works of literature that have made them famous. Readers will learn about Mesopotamia’s Gilgamesh; Achilles and the Trojan War; Stonehenge and the Druids; Thor, the Nordic god of thunder; Chinese oracle bones; the use of peyote in ancient Native American rites; and the dramatic life and times of the man who would be Buddha.

Using his popular question and answer format, Davis demonstrates the ways in which the gods and heroes of yesterday continue to speak to us in modern movies, art, language, music, and religions. From Mount Olympus to Machu Picchu, from ancient Rome to the icy land of the Norse, here is an insightful and lively look at the greatest stories ever told.

Kenneth C. Davis speaks often on national television and radio. His USA Weekend column is seen weekly by millions of readers. In addition to his adult titles, he writes the Don’t Know Much About® Kids series published by HarperCollins. He lives in New York City with his wife and two children.

“Ken Davis is the high school teacher we all wish we’d had — smart, funny, and irreverent.” — Bruce Feiler, author of Walking the Bible

Critical Praise

“Ken Davis is the high school teacher we all wish we’d had—smart, funny, and irreverent. Don’t Know Much About Mythology is a crystalized reminder of what’s enduring about the past, and why it continues to matter today. It’s a perfect companion to Harry Potter, The DaVinci Code, and the Bible—and the best excuse I know to get deserted on a Greek island. Between Odysseus and Icarus, it might even give you a few clues for how to find your way home—and how not to.” — Bruce Feiler, author of Walking the Bible

“Davis ranges widely and with such sparkling wit. . . a superb starting point for entering the world of mythology.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Davis is clearly the owner of a questing mind....An accessible and informed guide to an always-fascinating subject.” — Kirkus Reviews

“With his trademark wit and fiercely entertaining style, Kenneth Davis draws us into mythological worlds, preserving ancient mysteries and enchantments even as he clarifies, orders, and makes sure we have the stories straight. Don’t Know Much About Mythology frames questions that arouse curiosity and produces answers that lead to astonishment. Whether you want a crash course on North American native myths or a refresher course on Gilgamesh, this book will provide a great read and remain a permanent reference manual.” — Dr. Maria Tatar, Department of Folklore and Mythology, Harvard University, author of The Annotated Brothers Grimm

“Who are we? In his thoughtful and entertaining Don’t Know Much about Mythology, Kenneth C. Davis suggests that in large part, we are a product of our own creation, our best instincts and worst prejudices—reflected in the stories we tell. We have become our myths, Davis suggests, though they are not necessarily true. In the Americas, myths justified slavery and the destruction of native societies. Yet myth can empower, pulling us upward toward greater creativity and humanity. For all who chose to know just who we are, you must read this book.” — Richard M. Cohen, author of Blindsided

“A massive overview of every myth under the sun. Davis shatters commonly held myths about myths.” — Daily News

"An enthusiastic introduction to world mythology...Fascinating." — School Library Journal

“Over the long development of human culture, the stories of Mythology are like a chronology of human evolution. They tell us who who we are, and hint at the answer to the growing spiritual intolerance we see today: at the level of the soul, we all want the same things. In Don’t Know Much About Mythology, Kenneth C. Davis illuminates these ideas in a popular and entertaining way. I highly recommend this book.” — James Redfield, author of The Celestine Prophecy

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Product Details

• ISBN: 9780060932572
• ISBN 10: 0060932570
• Imprint: Harper Paperbacks
• On Sale: 08/15/2006
• Trimsize: 5.310 in (w) x 8.000 in (h) x 0.890 in (d)
• Pages: 560
• List Price: $14.99
• BISAC1 : HISTORY / Europe / Greece (see also Ancient / Greece)
• BISAC2 : RELIGION / Antiquities & Archaeology
• BISAC3 : SOCIAL SCIENCE / Folklore & Mythology