Myths are the dreams of mankind at once utterly strange and hauntingly familiar. They tell of beginnings and ends creation and destruction life and death... This beautifully illustrated book gathers together many of the most popular myths from all over the world including a selection of the great Classical tales of Greece and Rome and myths from Norse Celtic Egyptian Native American Aboriginal African and Asian traditions. They are retold for readers of all ages in a vivid accessible style by Neil Philip an authority on myth and folklore. The illustrations by Nilesh Mistry link the main episodes of each myth involving readers in its action and atmosphere. This exciting new approach also provides intriguing glimpses into the cultures from which these myths have sprung. Background information accompanied by colour photographs explores the tales' historical cultural and geographical context. The stories are grouped together thematically- allowing readers to appreciate not only the differences but also the uncanny similarities between many of the world's cultures. The Illustrated Book of Myths brings together and illuminates timeless universal stories many of which form part of our literary heritage. Its special qualities make this collection both an important reference book for all the family and a lasting source of inspiration and delight.