I was a bit skeptical about purchasing my first "Complete Idiot's Guide," but this work won me over completely. It covers all the major aspects of Greek myth in a well-organized, easily understandable fashion. Authors Osborn and Burgess were not content with merely giving the "greatest hits" of myth, they include a wealth of detail and helpful historical/cultural notes. The "Least You Need to Know" sections at the end of each chapter are particularly nice. As a teacher of Classics I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who need an intro to Greek myth or anyone (like myself) who needs a handy reference.

For anyone who feels that mythology is just too complicated and boring, this is the perfect book to change your mind. A multitude of mythological topics are covered susinctly and with a great deal of humor. Information is neatly categorized and easy to follow. This would be a great book for students newly exposed to mythology or teachers needing a refresher course! And the real clincher for me? It was co-written by Dana Burgess, who was one of my favorite professors at Whitman College and instilled in me a passion for classics nearly equalling his own.

I give this book an 8 because it had a vlaue to me beyond what normally would be sought. I am a fan of today's comabt sports, the UFC, Pancrase, Vale Tudo, etc... This was the beginning and it was facinating to me. I had read about Pancration, Boxing and Wrestling in ancient times in another book (which this list doesn't have access to I notice...) called "Living in teh Combat Zone" by Rick Renner - published by Pillar Books of Tulsa OK. It's A Christian book, but has tremendous historical value as well. Joe