Bull

This book is a tongue-in-cheek, almost disturbing adaptation of the Greek tale, Theseus and the Minotaur. Written in verse, the story shifts back and forth between the voices of different gods and goddesses. The writing is fresh and fun, but also often bitingly sarcastic and a bit raw. The author does stick fairly closely to the original tale, and readers will be quickly drawn into the problems of the characters and the dark, often violent, attempts to resolve their troubles. The story is told in a contemporary voice with language kids use today, making this a great book to use in high school mythology units. The language might be a little strong for some, but for older students the choice of vocabulary will help draw them into the story and may even motivate them to check out the original tale. The end notes are interesting and informative as well. This humorous and seductive retelling is a worthwhile selection for collections serving older students.