Jean Menzies – författare

'Offers fascinating insights into women's worlds and desires in Greco-Roman antiquity and beyond.'Emily Hauser, Sunday Times bestselling author of Mythica'A wonderfully witty and insightful look at attitudes towards female sexual pleasure in Ancient Greece and Rome... Truly fabulous.'Elodie Harper, Sunday Times bestselling author of the Wolf Den trilogy'An eye-opening and joyful read.'Jennifer Saint, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ariadne ***Was Ovid a surprising champion of women's sexual pleasure? Or did he just want them to fake it? Where did the British Museum curators hide the most pornographic of frescoes? And what exactly was the phallic wooden object excavated in 90's Northumberland?In APHRODISIA, Dr Jean Menzies dives into the hidden history of women's sexuality in Ancient Greece and Rome. The classical world stretched across the Mediterranean for more than a millennium, its people and cultures wide and varied and its sexual proclivities equally so. Yet so often when we read about sex in antiquity it is about the men folk first and foremost: which brothels they were visiting, how they balanced wives and lovers, and what they got up to in the gymnasium. Delving into the literature, art and artefacts of the ancient world, from sex toys to seduction tips to kink, Dr Jean Menzies instead centres women and their desire. In doing so, she uncovers the many faces of women's sexuality over the course of thousands of years, and asks intriguing, and sometimes provocative questions about women, sex and desire today.***'Finally! An up close and personal look at ancient women's sex lives that doesn't treat them simply as a source of scurrilous gossip, but rather as a subject worthy of care and respect.'Dr Jane Draycott, author of Fulvia and Cleopatra's Daughter'Aphrodisia is a magnanimous triumph for the study of women in antiquity; Jean's ability to communicate this information in a witty and down-to-earth way makes this a necessary read for all people interested in sexuality and desire.'Erica Stevenson, author of The Odyssey Effect

Every country has its own cherished myths and legends featuring fairies, elves and sprites. Sixteen of these stories are collected here, chosen from all over the world.Some tales are pure entertainment, some warn of life’s dangers, whilst others offer valuable moral lessons. What they all have in common is an exploration of the unknown and a brush with the mysteries of life.There are devious elves from Iceland, a fairy masquerading as a sparrow from Japan, terrifying banshees from Ireland, trolls from Norway's forests and many more unpredictable and magical beings taking centre stage in these strange and wonderful stories.Fairies, Elves and Sprites: Myths and Legends is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, pocket-sized classics bound in real cloth with gold-foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover.For more myths from Jean Menzies, Mermaids, Sirens and Selkies is also available.

We’ve all grown up with stories of magical dragons and mythical winged creatures. This thoroughly entertaining collection of stories draws on such tales from all over the world; from ancient Greece and Egypt, to 14th century China to France, Estonia, Ireland, Wales and beyond.Dragons, Wyverns and Serpents: Myths and Legends is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, pocket-sized classics bound in real cloth with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover.Many tales relate stories of bravery and ingenuity against a seemingly indomitable and terrifying creature; there’s George and the Dragon from England and the famous Norse Myth of Fafnir. Some (but not many!) creatures are benevolent, for example the sea serpent in the Egyptian Tale of the Shipwrecked Soldier.Each retelling contributes to a fascinating and lively overview of how mythical creatures are represented through time and across the globe.

The stories of the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece are sprawling, dramatic and wonderfully strange; their lives intertwine with mortals and their behaviours fluctuate wildly from benevolent to violent, from didactic to fickle, from loving to enraged.Greek Myths: Gods and Goddesses is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, cloth-bound, pocket-sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover.Classicist and author Jean Menzies captures the magic of Greek myths by drawing on a wide variety of vivid retellings from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, which bring to life the stories of Zeus, Athena, Poseidon, Hermes, Pandora and many more. Coupled with her own entertaining commentary, this is the perfect book for learning about the world of the Greek deities and a treat for all fans of Greek mythology.Discover even more mythology with Greek Myths: Heroes and Heroines edited by Jean Menzies.

Find out what happened when King Midas was granted his wish, how Icarus flew too close to the sun, and relive the adventures of Jason and the Argonauts in these stories of love, betrayal, infatuation and punishment.Greek Myths: Heroes and Heroines is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, cloth-bound, pocket-sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover.Greek myths have been part of Western culture since they were first set down by the ancients and, as there is no one definitive account, the stories have been ripe for reinterpretation through the centuries. Classicist and writer Jean Menzies has brought together fifteen retellings of famous myths from the likes of Andrew and Jean Lang, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Emilie Kip Baker, each chosen for its clarity and vivacity. The result? An enlightening and lively volume of stories and a treat for all fans of Greek mythology.Discover even more mythology with Greek Myths: Gods and Goddesses edited by Jean Menzies.

A beautifully-illustrated book filled with over 30 Ancient Greek Myths for children aged 7-9.Journey into a world of gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines, extraordinary creatures and fantastic monsters with this beautifully illustrated introduction to Ancient Greek mythology. Perfect for children aged 7 to 9, this collection contains more than 30 enthralling new retellings of favourite Greek myths as well as some you might not have heard before.Including 'Theseus and the Minotaur', 'The 12 Labours of Herakles', and the escapades of 'Jason and the Argonauts', each myth is told in engaging modern language, which is easy for children to understand yet still retains the humour and intrigue of the original tales. Encourage your children to explore: -Over 30 fascinating Greek myths, covering famous classics and lesser known stories-Striking illustrations by multi-award winning artist Katie Ponder-Stunning gold foil on the cover -A handy pronunciation guide listing all difficult-to-pronounce names for the reader's convenience-Key reference spreads combining the appeal of a story collection with key reference informationA must-have volume for children aged 7-9 with an interest in Greek mythology and history, the additional feature pages delve deeper into the mythical world, providing profiles of the gods and a map detailing Odysseus' long voyage home from the Trojan War. The reference section provides key background information, such as Ancient Greek storytelling and the incredible beasts of the myths, and a handy pronunciation guide. Greek Myths is the perfect gift, featuring stunning gold foil on the cover and beautiful illustrations throughout. Quench your child's curiosity and thirst for knowledge, as they explore the enthralling tales, whether by themselves or to equally be enjoyed as bedtime stories alongside parents.

A beautifully illustrated collection of 20 ancient Egyptian myths retold for children aged 7-9.Delve into a world of monstrous creatures, magical spells, and warring gods in this thrilling compendium of ancient Egyptian myths. With 20 exciting tales alongside fascinating historical information, this is a must-have introduction for young readers interested in one of the world's great early civilizations. From the creation of the world to the first pharaohs, this book charts the full sweep of ancient Egyptian mythology, revealing fascinating elements of culture and religion along the way. The enthralling stories introduce mighty gods and wicked villains, while a handy reference section is packed with information about the ancient Egyptians themselves. Learn how Ra fought daily battles to make the Sun rise, how trouble-making Set brought chaos to the kingdom, and how Osiris became the first mummy. Perfect for children aged 7 to 9, this collection contains more than 20 enthralling new retellings of favourite myths as well as some you might not have heard before.Encourage your children to explore: - Over 20 fascinating Egyptian myths, covering famous classics and lesser known stories- Striking illustrations by multi-award winning artist Katie Ponder- Stunning gold foil on the cover - A handy pronunciation guide listing all difficult-to-pronounce names for the reader's convenience- Key reference spreads combining the appeal of a story collection with key reference informationIt's time to dive into the Duat underworld, ride into the sky on the back of the heavenly cow, and discover the secrets of the pharaoh's tombs. Egyptian Myths brings the world of ancient Egypt to life and is the perfect gift for children who love history and mythology. At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. So why not complete the collection!Discover stories from Ancient Greece like never before with Greek Myths, and uncover action-packed tales of extraordinary creatures and compelling gods, goddesses and more with Norse Myths.

A beautifully illustrated collection of profiles of more than 80 goddesses and other powerful women retold for children aged 7-9.Delve into a world of key female figures from all over the world in this thrilling compendium of goddesses and heroines. With more than 30 stories about goddesses and powerful women, this is a must-have introduction for young readers interested in female figures from different cultures. This collection of tales for children aged 7-9 includes stories like how Japanese goddess of the dawn Ame-no-Uzume saved the day by dancing and how ancient Greek witch Medea helped to defeat a dragon. The enthralling stories introduce famous figures from around the world, while a handy reference section is packed with information about the goddesses and heroines themselves. Perfect for children aged 7 to 9, this collection contains more than 30 beloved stories retold by award-winning author Dr Jean Menzies, with striking illustrations bringing the tales to life.This book on goddesses for children offers: - Over 80 profiles of women in mythology, covering famous classics and lesser-known stories.- Striking illustrations by multi-award-winning artist Katie Ponder.- A handy pronunciation guide listing all difficult-to-pronounce names for the reader's convenience.- Stunning gold foil on the cover, making it a wonderful gift for children into mythology.- More than 30 stories, combining the appeal of a story collection with key reference information.It's time to dive into the underworld of powerful women from religion and myth, from famous figures such as the warrior Mulan, to lesser-known characters like the ancient Greek queen Alcestis. Goddesses and Heroines brings the world of legendary women to life and is the perfect gift for children who love history and mythology. At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. So why not complete the collection!Discover the secrets of the pharohs tombs with Egyptian Myths, read extraordinary stories from Ancient Greece with Greek Myths, and uncover action-packed tales of extraordinary creatures and compelling gods, goddesses and more with Norse Myths.

Discover thrilling tales from ancient mythology with this box set containing 3 books: Greek Myths, Norse Myths and Egyptian Myths.Ancient Myths Collection is the ideal box set for children interested in the history and mythology of ancient Greece, the Vikings, and the ancient Egyptians.Each book features a mix of 20 or more exciting stories, including classic favourites - such as the Greek myth Pandora's Jar, the Norse legend The Binding of Fenrir, and the Egyptian myth Horus and the Snake. The tales are told in lively, easy-to-understand language and are brought to life with stylised illustrations.This ancient myths box set for kids offers: - Three books containing an engaging collection of ancient myths and the history from different cultures.- Information and key facts presented in bite-sized chunks for children aged 7-9, supported by illustrations and profiles to explore each topic.- A collection of stories with gripping narratives and tales of gods, heroes, monsters and magic.This collection of ancient myths is retold for children, with profile pages covering the need-to-know information about key characters, and reference chapters delve into the background of each culture, exploring topics such as Greek art, Norse storytelling, and the pharaohs of Egypt. The pronunciation guides at the back of each book help with new names and the glossaries explain tricky words.

IN A LAND OF KNIGHTS AND KINGS, TWO WOMEN WILL REWRITE THE RULES OF LOVE AND MAGICA spellbinding sapphic reimagining of the myths of Camelot from award-winning historian and YouTube sensation Jean Menzies.'A fierce, luminous and captivating reimagining of Arthurian legend that pairs feminist resistance with a scorching sapphic romance. The Lady of The Lake had me completely under its spell’ BEA FITZGERALD--When Lady Viviane leaves the lakes of the far North for the splendour of Camelot, she knows the destiny her father has planned for her. To capture the heart and hand of the young prince, Arthur. To bring her family richness and glory.But it is Arthur’s sister Morgan who captures Viviane’s eye. Fierce and headstrong, Morgan sees another path – one she and Viviane can carve for themselves in this world built for knights and kings.Now everything has shifted and changed. Under the guidance of the court sorcerer Merlin, she discovers magical powers within herself. And before long, she finds her friendship with Morgan deepening to the first flush of love.But in Camelot, eyes are everywhere and no one is as they seem. The quest for power breeds darkness and danger, and when Arthur pulls the legendary sword from the stone and rises to King, his closest allies will ask terrible things of Viviane and Morgan – striving to tear them apart for their own ends.And if they cannot find their way back to each other, Camelot itself could fall . . .--Readers have been enchanted by The Lady of the Lake'This was a BEAUTIFUL sapphic retelling’ ***** Reader Review'Beautifully written and really made you think. Loved it!’ ***** Reader Review'This was absolutely beautiful. The story, the world building and the chemistry between these characters was superb. Beautiful' ***** Reader Review'Wow wow wow wow...This is my first 5 star read of 2025 and I won’t be surprised if its in 2025 top reads at the end of the year!' ***** Reader Review

For over two thousand years, the Odyssey has inspired readers worldwide with its epic adventures and enduring themes. Its essential lessons are presented here in accessible, empowering form for anyone seeking support and personal growth. Structured into digestible 'lessons', the book draws on the words and actions of gods, goddesses, witches, and warriors, offering inspiration across key self-help and wellness themes, including self-belief, identity, and homecoming. From Athena s calm wisdom to Penelope s endurance, readers can find comfort in the choices and virtues of these famous characters. Homer s Odyssey has endured across the millennia due to its powerful messages about human nature, and those lessons continue to resonate for modern readers seeking timeless guidance in uncertain times. From Christopher Nolan s 2026 blockbuster to the myriad bestselling fictional retellings, the Odyssey s popularity continues to soar. Beautifully presented with elegant two-color illustrations, this edition will be treasured by readers looking for visually and emotionally rewarding new ways to engage with this classic text.

Legends about sea people – part human, part fish – have been told across the world since ancient times. Now the best of these stories are brought together in one entrancing volume.Early maps carried illustrations of mermaids alongside monsters, signalling both the allure and the danger of uncharted seas. The far-reaching historical and cultural significance of mermaids and their kin is reflected in the myriad stories about them.Odysseus at sea must resist the sirens’ song. There are sea serpents from North America and selkies from Scotland. And from shores across the globe, humble fishermen and princes alike fall in love with mermaids in stories from Germany to Japan by way of Denmark with the famous story of The Little Mermaid.Mermaids, Sirens and Selkies: Myths and Legends is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, pocket-sized classics bound in real cloth with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover.For more myths from Jean Menzies, Fairies, Elves and Sprites is also available.

The supernatural figure of the sorcerer, someone with magic powers for both good and evil, features in storytelling and legends all over the world. As shown in this collection of wonderful stories, wicked Witches and revered Wizards have appeared in fairy tales, legends and myths for thousands of years and continue to inspire contemporary fantasy writers.Witches, Wizards and Sorcerers: Myths and Legends is part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, pocket-sized classics bound in real cloth with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover.This lively, carefully chosen collection brings together ancient stories and famous myths, each by a different writer, from a range of cultures and eras. Some of the nineteen stories come from well known names such as Irish poet W. B. Yeats, Andrew Lang and Brothers Grimm as well as some intriguing new discoveries from Poland, Russia, India and much more.

This magical collection of folk stories from across the world celebrates the winter season in all its frosty glory. From Norse, Japanese and Icelandic mythology to Chinese, Scottish and Indigenous American folklore, these stories range from charming to chilling.Discover myths that explore the origins of the season and the importance of embracing icy weather, alongside tales which welcome you into the warm glow of festive gatherings. Featuring beloved storytellers such as Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm as well as little-known, rediscovered treasures, this flurry of wintery tales is the perfect companion for cosying up by the fireplace during the colder months of the year.Part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library, a series of stunning, cloth-bound, pocket-sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. Folk Tales for Winter Nights is edited by Jean Menzies.

Lady Viviane leaves the lakes of the far North for the splendour of Camelot to capture the heart and hand of the young prince, Arthur.But it is Arthur’s sister Morgan who captures Viviane’s eye. Fierce and headstrong, Morgan sees another path – one she and Viviane can carve for themselves in this world built for knights and kings.But in this kingdom no one is as they seem. And when Arthur pulls the legendary sword from the stone, his closest allies will do all they can to tear Viviane and Morgan apart.CAN THEIR LOVE SURVIVE THE DARK FORCES AT WORK IN CAMELOT?

The perfect gift for teenagers and young women - a beautifully illustrated book of goddess life lessons, myths and legends.For centuries, cultures around the world celebrated tales and myths of daring and brave goddesses. These twenty-one legendary ladies were tenacious, smart and strong. Meet...· Osun, the Yoruba goddess of love who stands up to those who believe women are less important than men· Rhiannon, the Welsh queen of fairies who won't let anyone make decisions for her and instead follows her heart· Freyja, the Norse goddess of love and death who sets boundaries and is comfortable with being a single independent womanThese rich and often forgotten female stories of the ancient past will inspire you to be just as confident, courageous, fierce and fearless in the future. 'With an ancient, earnest heart, Live like a Goddess continues a venerable tradition of reading myth not just for fun but for personal enrichment. I am warmed by these diverse tales and their lessons in ambition, wisdom and courage' - Amy Jeffs, author of the bestselling Storyland"Menzies presents gem-like stories of powerful women, lifting them up to guide future generations. A gorgeous reclamation of our human heritage." Luna McNamara, author of Psyche and Eros

'Offers fascinating insights into women's worlds and desires in Greco-Roman antiquity and beyond.'Emily Hauser, Sunday Times bestselling author of Mythica'A wonderfully witty and insightful look at attitudes towards female sexual pleasure in Ancient Greece and Rome... Truly fabulous.'Elodie Harper, Sunday Times bestselling author of the Wolf Den trilogy'An eye-opening and joyful read.'Jennifer Saint, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ariadne ***Was Ovid a surprising champion of women's sexual pleasure? Or did he just want them to fake it? Where did the British Museum curators hide the most pornographic of frescoes? And what exactly was the phallic wooden object excavated in 90's Northumberland?In APHRODISIA, Dr Jean Menzies dives into the hidden history of women's sexuality in Ancient Greece and Rome. The classical world stretched across the Mediterranean for more than a millennium, its people and cultures wide and varied and its sexual proclivities equally so. Yet so often when we read about sex in antiquity it is about the men folk first and foremost: which brothels they were visiting, how they balanced wives and lovers, and what they got up to in the gymnasium. Delving into the literature, art and artefacts of the ancient world, from sex toys to seduction tips to kink, Dr Jean Menzies instead centres women and their desire. In doing so, she uncovers the many faces of women's sexuality over the course of thousands of years, and asks intriguing, and sometimes provocative questions about women, sex and desire today.***'Finally! An up close and personal look at ancient women's sex lives that doesn't treat them simply as a source of scurrilous gossip, but rather as a subject worthy of care and respect.'Dr Jane Draycott, author of Fulvia and Cleopatra's Daughter'Aphrodisia is a magnanimous triumph for the study of women in antiquity; Jean's ability to communicate this information in a witty and down-to-earth way makes this a necessary read for all people interested in sexuality and desire.'Erica Stevenson, author of The Odyssey Effect

'Offers fascinating insights into women's worlds and desires in Greco-Roman antiquity and beyond.'Emily Hauser, Sunday Times bestselling author of Mythica'A wonderfully witty and insightful look at attitudes towards female sexual pleasure in Ancient Greece and Rome... Truly fabulous.'Elodie Harper, Sunday Times bestselling author of the Wolf Den trilogy'An eye-opening and joyful read.'Jennifer Saint, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ariadne***Was Ovid a surprising champion of women's sexual pleasure? Or did he just want them to fake it? Where did the British Museum curators hide the most pornographic of frescoes? And what exactly was the phallic wooden object excavated in 90's Northumberland?In APHRODISIA, Dr Jean Menzies dives into the hidden history of women's sexuality in Ancient Greece and Rome. The classical world stretched across the Mediterranean for more than a millennium, its people and cultures wide and varied and its sexual proclivities equally so. Yet so often when we read about sex in antiquity it is about the men folk first and foremost: which brothels they were visiting, how they balanced wives and lovers, and what they got up to in the gymnasium. Delving into the literature, art and artefacts of the ancient world, from sex toys to seduction tips to kink, Dr Jean Menzies instead centres women and their desire. In doing so, she uncovers the many faces of women's sexuality over the course of thousands of years, and asks intriguing, and sometimes provocative questions about women, sex and desire today.***'Finally! An up close and personal look at ancient women's sex lives that doesn't treat them simply as a source of scurrilous gossip, but rather as a subject worthy of care and respect.'Dr Jane Draycott, author of Fulvia and Cleopatra's Daughter'Aphrodisia is a magnanimous triumph for the study of women in antiquity; Jean's ability to communicate this information in a witty and down-to-earth way makes this a necessary read for all people interested in sexuality and desire.'Erica Stevenson, author of The Odyssey Effect

Ancient Greece was rich with stories of queer love and gender- fluid identity—but what can these ancient stories tell us about our contemporary world? Tales as old as antiquity – whether the love affair of Achilles and Patroclus, the genderfluid Tiresias, or the infamous Heracles – are still capturing our imaginations thousands of years later. But was antiquity’s relationship with queer folk more complicated than we now imagine? Historian Jean Menzies dives into the world of queer readings and retellings of Greek mythology, inviting readers to discover the power to be found in remaking these narratives. From explorations of gender and identity across millennia, to celebrating queer love in its many forms, All the Violet Tiaras carves a space for queer stories to be told with all the complexity and tenderness they deserve—and a goddess or two thrown in for good measure.