Leo and the Gorgon's Curse; Joe Todd-Stanton

Leo and the Gorgon’s Curse is the fourth book from the humble collection of books that are buried amongst the treasures in Professor Bronwstone’s vault.

Leo longs to become a hero of Athens like the great warriors that have kept the city safe and when he is sent to the great city to learn about Greek Mythology he might finally get this chance. Except his parents have banned him from doing the one class that he really wants to do…hero training; Leo’s duty is to protect mythical creatures and not defeat them like Athena has her heroes do. But when Leo is mistakenly identified as the slayer of a sea monster he becomes trapped in an every growing web of lies and Athena wants proof of his heroic ways…

Joe-Todd Stanton’s books that make up ‘Brownstone’s Mythical Collection’ are brilliant; engaging stories, cracking adventures, plenty of action, fantastic artwork and a wonderfully accessible introduction to ancient myths and legends.

In the latest story, Greek mythology is brought to life in a stunning picture book that is crammed full of incredible, mythical Greek creatures, legendary heroes, a powerful and wise goddess and a wannna-be hero who will write himself into the history books in an unforgettable way. 

Leo and the Gorgon’s Curse is a rollickingly good fantasy adventure that entertains and educates in equal measure whilst delivering a valuable moral lesson. In a world where heroes are celebrated for the beasts that they slay, Leo is a brave and clever protagonist who, through his own creativity and ingenuity, proves that not all heroes have to fight. Although this does lead him into a rather tricky situation when Athena demands to see evidence of his beast conquering exploits. What will she make of our hero when his gentler ways are revealed?

Leo is the kind of hero kids need, he is awesome! Despite his desire to follow in the brave and heroic footsteps of Theseus, Hercules, Achilles and Odysseus, he has a clear moral compass and is loyal to the family code. Even when his ‘hero’ status is put under the closest scrutiny he does not waver, his job is to ‘protect mythological creatures’ and not to fight them.

Avoiding the classic Greek myth stereotypes, Todd-Stanton offers a fresh and original take on Greek mythology and it is an absolute delight that is a must read when studying Ancient Greece. It is sure to appeal to a wide reader base and anyone who loves fantastic adventures, mythical characters and gorgeously illustrated reads will devour it.

Recommended for 7+.