The Myth of Monsters: #1 Medusa written by Katherine Marsh, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Medusa, a reintrepertation of Greek mythology by Katherine Marsh. The story follows Ava Baldwin, a girl attending a boarding school, Accademia del Forte, in Venice, designed for the descendants of Greek monsters. Ava has always tried to manage her emotions, but an incident with her classmate Owen King leads to her being sent to the mysterious school where she uncovers a dangerous secret that could alter their understanding of history and mythology. As Ava and her brother, Jax, navigate their new environment, they learn about their heritage and the importance of controlling their powers. The plot is filled with twists and turns, making it an engaging read for middle-grade students. I think some if a reader has more background of Greek mythology, some things will make more sense.  The book provides a strong emphasis on friendship and the empowerment of young girls, appealing to those seeking relatable and inspiring stories. With its imaginative concept and captivating twists, Medusa is a thrilling read that encourages young readers to explore their identities and the power of community. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Though Medusa promises an exciting adventure, some readers may find its overt feminist themes and messages distracting from the story.  I originally thought it would be great for Percy Jackson fans, but I think it is definitely geared more towards girls.  This book serves as a great entry point for students to explore ancient myths while connecting them to contemporary issues of identity and empowerment. Librarians can create reading lists that include other mythological retellings, facilitating comparisons and deeper understanding. Additionally, hosting book clubs or storytelling sessions around Medusa can spark discussions about character motivations and the significance of emotions in personal growth. The theme of women being oppressed by the male gods is pretty forceful.  Some reviewers are loving the flipped script and some think it went too far.  I enjoyed it and would read the rest of the series.  It's unique in that more of the spotlight is on the "monsters" in Greek mythology than on the major Gods and Goddesses.  I like the fantasy of going to a private boarding school in Venice.