Lanka’s Princess by Kavita Kane

Hindu mythology is a vast and interesting realm to explore. With countless perspectives to re-tell a story, there are many entities whose stories we end up wondering about more often than we can admit. Kavita Kane’s Lanka’s Princess explores the story of Surpanakha or, as she was born, Meenakshi, Ravan’s sister from Ramayana. Depicting the trajectory of a character as complex as Lanka’s princess, Kane’s writing is a compelling invitation to all mythology lovers to explore a new, unexpected but dynamic perspective.

Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

Fan of the Percy Jackson series but looking for something along the lines of Indian mythology yourself? Well look no more, 12-year-old Aru Shah’s here to keep you company. Fall into Aru’s world as a simple dare to light the lamp of Bharata turns her world upside down and she finds out that not only is she a demi-god but a female reincarnation of a Pandava. Hop on an adventure ride with her as she strives to save the world from its impending doom and find others like her. Honest, funny and light, this book had us wishing we had it back when we were kids too.

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

The Song of Achilles presents the story of the famous Achilles through the eyes of the beloved Patroclus. Heartwrenching and devastatingly beautiful, follow the close bond between the two as they grow up together and battle the odds. A refreshing tale suitable for young-adult audiences, the novel is not at all intimidating and a cosy read for all curious readers out there. Prepare a box of tissues because your eyes will surely need it as you reach the end.

Circe by Madeline Miller

If you’re wondering why Miller has made our list twice, it’s because she’s just that good. Circe had been one of the most talked-about books in blogs, BookTube, Bookstagram and even BookTok. Following the goddess and witch Circe, daughter of the Titan Helios, Circe is about the titular character’s isolation on the island Aeaea and her subsequent interactions with famous heroes and Gods. Alluring in its tale, Circe offers a well-rounded character that beautifully comes to life. Miller is commendable for not diverting completely away from the mythology. If you’re intimidated by mythologies and happen to be unfamiliar with the same, this modern retelling is perfect to sink into, thanks to its not-so-complex language.

Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman

A short novel inspired by Norse mythology that will resurrect your inner child. Gaiman’s phenomenal storytelling is surprisingly comforting and less terrifying than his previous works. While a perpetual winter plagues the land, Odd escapes home and stumbles onto stranger encounters. It’s not long before he’s on his way to protect Asgard by battling the terrifying frost giants. A classically heartwarming tale that is oddly captivating, this children’s book is a delightful read and a perfect gift to everybody young at heart.

Empress of All Seasons by Emiko Jean

Loosely inspired by the popular Japanese class of entity known as yokai, Empress of All Seasons brings you a Japanese high-fantasy story that’s bewitching. Set in a world where one must complete a set of seasonally themed trials in order to become Empress of the land of Honuku, Mari ambitiously sets out to win this very competition. The only thorn in her flesh is that yokai are forbidden from participating and Mari is just that. Jean invokes her Japanese heritage in this cutthroat story as she expertly navigates overlapping segments of myth, fantasy and young-adult-ish tropes that we’re all the more familiar with. If you’ve enjoyed The Hunger Games and The Selection, this might be it.

Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee

If you’re a fan of Korean culture, this book is just for you. Meet 13-year old Mina, a fox spirit (commonly known as gumiho) who sets off on a quest to find her missing brother. From pirates to dragons to tigers and ghosts, Yoon Ha Lee stunningly brings together elements of Korean mythology and science fiction, creating an enthralling experience that will leave you engrossed. Perfect for young readers, this book is the definition of unputdownable. Bonus point? This book has a space opera setting.

The Goddess Chronicle by Natsuo Kirino

Immerse yourself in Japanese mythology with the story of two sisters born into a family of oracles. Kamikuu and Namima are forced to work on opposite sides, the former as the next Oracle in the Realm of Light and the latter as the guide of deceased spirits to the Underworld, where she experiences the tragic combination of love and betrayal. Filled with bitterness and rage, Namima journeys between the land of the living and the dead as she seeks vengeance and answers. A reimagination of the ancient Japanese creation myth of Izanami and Izanaki, this book is the perfect read for those curious about Japanese myth and retelling enthusiasts.

Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Going back to her roots in Mexico and exploring the stories she’s familiar with, Moreno-Garcia draws on Mayan myth as she presents the story. Follow the story of Casiopea, living in Yucatan in the 1920s, who opens a locked chest and releases the mighty but trapped Mayan God of death called Hun-Kame. In an unseemingly turn of events, she is sent on a quest to aid him to regain his power and position, failure of which would result in death. Explore a special bond between the two as you traverse wide and far with them and explore the culture. Gods of Jade and Shadow is perfect for those looking for a lush standalone novel to enjoy.

The Gospel of Loki by Joanne M. Harris

If you’re a Loki fan, you might want to consider this one. The Gospel of Loki brings to light the perspective of the God of Mischief. Tired of being misunderstood, Loki recounts important incidents of their life and the unforgettable role they played in the history of Asgard, ranging from their recruitment by their one-eyed master Odin from the underworld of Chaos, their many actions on behalf of him, the subsequent disloyalty towards the Gods and the fall of Asgard itself. The book is a retelling of Norse mythology and one of its most famous deities.