The Golden Fleece: And the Heroes Who Lived Before Achilles

"Still unequaled as an introduction to the classic myths." — Publishers Weekly Written for young readers by a great Irish folklorist, this Newbery Award–winning anthology centers on the legend of the quest for the Golden Fleece. Generations of readers have thrilled to these classic retellings of ancient myths, which trace Jason and the Argonauts' voyages and their encounters with the foreseer Prometheus, Medea the sorceress, and other legendary characters. Stories of the heroes who accompanied Jason include "The Life and Labors of Heracles," "Theseus and the Minotaur," "How Orpheus the Minstrel Went Down to the World of the Dead," and other stirring tales.

Author Padraic Colum, who was active in the Irish literary renaissance and a founder of Dublin's Abbey Theatre, was also a popular children's writer. Skilled at recounting tales in a manner that attracts and holds kids' attention, Colum possessed a poetic style that continues to enchant audiences of all ages. His captivating tales are complemented by forty evocative illustrations by Willy Pogány.

Reprint of the Macmillan Company, New York, 1921 edition.