Books Like...
'The Philosopher Kings' by Jo Walton is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that delves into the consequences of setting up a city based on Plato's Republic. The story follows Apollo, now living in human form, and his daughter Arete, as they navigate grief, exploration, and ethical dilemmas in a society that has fractured into warring cities. Through a blend of Greek mythology, time travel, and philosophical debates, Walton skillfully crafts a narrative that challenges readers to contemplate what it means to be truly human.
The book is praised for its engaging storytelling, accessible exploration of philosophical ideas, and the way it gently suggests connections between ancient Greek philosophy and modern Western narratives. Walton's writing style seamlessly weaves together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and alternate history, creating a unique and captivating reading experience that offers both entertainment and intellectual stimulation.
If you liked The Philosopher Kings, here are the top 13 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Thessaly)
- #1
Eupolis of Pallene, goatherd, nascent playwright, and contemporary of Pericles, Sophocles, Euripides, and Socrates, spends his days in the company of goats composing comic verse, in a tale of Athens at the height of its glory
... - #2
Daughter of Sparta by Claire M. Andrews is a revitalized take on the Greek myth of Daphne and Apollo, featuring a fierce and ferocious female protagonist named Daphne. The story follows Daphne's journey across Greece with the charming yet distracting god Apollo to recover stolen Olympian relics and save her brother. Along the way, Daphne encounters familiar faces from Greek mythology, learns more about her past, and navigates through a world where she refuses to be a pawn in the game of Gods. The plot is a feminist reimagining with witty banter, nods to other Greek myths, and a fresh perspective on traditional Greek myths.
Daphne's adventure in Daughter of Sparta includes competing in Carneia in place of her missing brother, embarking on a mission assigned by Artemis to save Olympus, and teaming up with Apollo to solve the mystery of the stolen items from Mt. Olympus. As the story unfolds, Daphne faces challenges, confronts powerful deities, and strives to save her loved ones while discovering her inner strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The book blends ancient history with modern storytelling, offering readers a captivating and empowering narrative that challenges stereotypes and celebrates the bravery and loyalty of its protagonist.
Lykou flashes me a crooked grin and accepts the dory, a whole three meters of bone-shattering wood and metal that Paidonomos Leonidas hands him. His challenge isn’t malicious, but rather a test. We’ve... - #3
In Christa Wolf's 'Medea', the story is retold from Medea's perspective, focusing on her struggles with love for Jason and betrayal. The narrative delves into their life in exile at Corinth, drawing parallels to the post-WWII eastern Europe atmosphere of fear and turmoil. The book offers a powerful and beautiful take on the Medea myth, providing a voice to one of the most mysterious women of ancient literature. Through multiple points of view, it paints a vivid picture of a dismal and dangerous time in Corinth, challenging the traditional portrayal of Medea as a seductress and exploring deeper themes of power, misuse of power, and scapegoating.
Of all the seductive, sinister and transgressive women who have haunted the Western imagination, none has a reputation more lurid than Medea’s. Judith, Salome, Jezebel, Delilah, Lady Macbeth—these mur... - #4
Set during the Trojan War, 'Cassandra: A Novel and Four Essays' by Christa Wolf delves into the life of Cassandra, a seeress and daughter of King Priam. The narrative follows Cassandra as she reflects on her life, thoughts, and struggles with the events and politics of the Trojan War. The book presents a loose chronology, allowing Cassandra to contemplate her impending fate while exploring the complexities of her character and the world around her. Through a mix of memories and stream of consciousness, Wolf skillfully portrays Cassandra's internal world and external challenges, providing a fresh perspective on a well-known mythological figure.
IT WAS HERE. This is where she stood. These stone lions looked at her; now they no longer have heads. This fortress – once impregnable, now a pile of stones – was the last thing she saw. A long-forgot... - #5
In 'Gods Behaving Badly' by Marie Phillips, the Greek gods find themselves living in a dilapidated London house, their powers diminishing as belief in them wanes. The story follows the amusing antics of the gods as they navigate day jobs, relationships, and schemes to entertain themselves, often involving mortals. The book offers a clever and original take on mythology, blending humor, wit, and imaginative sequences to create a fun and light-hearted read.
The author, Marie Phillips, skillfully humanizes the characters of the Greek gods, portraying them in a modern setting with humorous and relatable personalities. The plot weaves together elements of ancient mythology with contemporary London life, resulting in a delightful romp filled with laugh-out-loud moments, irreverent humor, and a touch of romance. Overall, 'Gods Behaving Badly' presents a fresh and entertaining twist on Greek mythology that will appeal to readers looking for a fun and engaging story.
The tree was standing alone in a sheltered part of the slope. To the untrained eye, the casual passerby, it probably just looked like a normal tree. But Artemis’s eye was far from untrained, and she r... - #6
In 'Lore' by Alexandra Bracken, the story unfolds in a world where the Ancient Greek gods are real and cursed to be mortal every seven years during a time called the agon. Descendants of half-god heroes hunt the gods during this period in hopes of taking their powers. The protagonist, Lore Melora Perseus, is a descendant of Perseus, who struggles with her past and future while navigating a world filled with action, uncertainty, and feminist perspectives. The book blends Greek mythology with modern times, set in New York City, and explores themes of revenge, betrayal, and the struggle for power in a world of gods and mortals.
The writing style of 'Lore' has been praised for its strong character development, complex relationships, and well-researched world-building. Readers have found the storytelling engaging, with a mix of action, conflict, and romance that keeps them invested in the plot. The book presents a fresh take on Greek mythology, highlighting the relevance of ancient stories in a contemporary setting, and offers a unique perspective on themes of destiny, friendship, and the impact of past traumas on the characters.
HER MOTHER HAD ONCE told her that the only way to truly know someone was to fight them. In Lore’s experience, the only thing fighting actually revealed was the spot on their body someone least wanted ... - #7
'Lore Olympus: Volume One' is a modern retelling of the classic tale of Hades and Persephone by author Rachel Smythe. The story is brought to life with vivid noir elements and vibrant colors that beautifully capture the essence of the original myth. follows the characters through various plot twists and character developments, addressing themes such as trauma, relationships, and personal growth. Smythe's unique art style and storytelling keep readers engaged as they delve into the world of Greek mythology reimagined in a contemporary setting.
- #8
'Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold' by C.S. Lewis is a retelling of the Roman myth of Cupid and Psyche, focusing on the perspective of Psyche's sister, Orual. The book delves deep into themes of love, jealousy, self-deceit, and the struggle with divinity, presenting a complex and sympathetic portrayal of the characters. The narrative explores the concept of knowing oneself before truly knowing love, while beautifully examining the power of love in our lives.
The writing style of the book is described as rich in language and wisdom, with exceptional storytelling that weaves a complex and amazing story of human emotions and choices. C.S. Lewis skillfully uses mythological elements to bring forth deep passions and consequences of our actions, creating a thought-provoking and engrossing tale that challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs and relationships with the divine.
I am old now and have not much to fear from the anger of gods. I have no husband nor child, nor hardly a friend, through whom they can hurt me. My body, this lean carrion that still has to be washed a... - #9
Plato's Republic is a paradigm-shattering book that challenges readers to reevaluate their perspectives on the world. The book delves into deep philosophical concepts using analogies and dialogues, exploring themes of justice, ideal government, the nature of reality, and the soul. Through thought experiments and discussions between Socrates and various interlocutors, Plato constructs an ideal city from the ground up, touching upon fundamental aspects of human society and individual behavior. The writing style is clear and thought-provoking, presenting complex ideas in a compelling and accessible manner.
Plato's ideal state or society is characterized by wisdom, courage, self-discipline and justice, qualities that a well-balanced person should also develop. Conversely, his discussion of reason, spirit... - #10
In "Circe" by Madeline Miller, readers are taken on a journey through Greek mythology from the perspective of the enchantress Circe. The book beautifully weaves together mythological cameos, showcasing a transformational arc for Circe as she evolves from a naive nymph to a powerful witch and reluctant mother. Through vivid storytelling, the author reimagines Circe's story, offering a fresh take on a character previously known for turning men into pigs in Homer's Odyssey.
When I was born, the name for what I was did not exist. They called me nymph, assuming I would be like my mother and aunts and thousand cousins. Least of the lesser goddesses, our powers were so modes...