What do you think?
Rate this book
Graphic Myths and Legends
Perseus: The Hunt for Medusa's Head [A Greek Myth]
Could a monster whose very look turns men to stone be a challenge too perilous even for the son of Zeus? King Polydectes has designs on Perseus’ mother, Danaë. But first the king must get rid of young Perseus once and for all. So Polydectes hatches a plan to trick the young hero into performing an impossible task—slay the snake-haired Gorgon monster Medusa, whose very look turns men to stone. Yet, as the son of Zeus, king of the gods, Perseus has many powerful allies. Will Perseus’ strength and courage—and the favor of the gods—allow him to do the impossible?
48 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2007
About the author
Paul D. Storrie
47 books15 followersPaul D. Storrie was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He started writing professionally in 1998 with the comic book ROBYN OF SHERWOOD about Robin Hood's daughter.
Since then, he has written comics and graphic novels for Moonstone Books, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, IDW Publishing, Devil's Due Publishing, Bluewater Productions, and Lerner Books' Graphic Universe division. He has also written short stories for the prose anthologies WEREWOLVES: DEAD MOON RISING and THE GREEN HORNET CASEFILES.
He currently lives in the Detroit suburbs.
Since then, he has written comics and graphic novels for Moonstone Books, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, IDW Publishing, Devil's Due Publishing, Bluewater Productions, and Lerner Books' Graphic Universe division. He has also written short stories for the prose anthologies WEREWOLVES: DEAD MOON RISING and THE GREEN HORNET CASEFILES.
He currently lives in the Detroit suburbs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 8, 2020
Wonderful telling of this powerful myth: always love to see art by Thomas Yeates. This is a great way to introduce both children and adults to mythology. This series is the first I have come across that looks at the rich traditions from around the world; will look for more books in this series.
October 23, 2016
This book was about Perseus and his hunt for Medusa's head. Perseus is Zeus' son. Perseus meets up with Athena, and she has decided to help him on his quest. He is given five magical items from the gods to help him on his quest. The story then backtracks, to how this all started. It goes back to when King Acrisius of Argos learns from an oracle that he is destined to die by his grandson (Perseus). He locks his daughter away in a tower and only lets female maids in the room with her. Eventually, Zeus sees her sorrow and Perseus is born. After learning of the birth, and not willing to anger Zeus, King Acrisius puts Perseus and his mother in a coffin and sends them afloat into the sea. Zeus learns this, and asks Poseidon to guide his son to safety. Eventually, they are taken in by King Polydectes, who wants to marry Perseus' mother. Perseus doesn't want this to happen. Polydectes tricks Perseus into going on a quest for Medusa's head. Read this book to find out how his dangerous quest goes.
The illustrations of this book are in color. There are panels. The artwork tells part of the story. The text is in narrative and conversational form.
This book, although it is a Greek myth, is still historical. The ancient Greeks truly believed in the stories of the gods and the heroes that were born to them. Perseus is an actual hero in Greek Mythology. Ancient people would have recognized him. He really went on the quest, to defeat both Medusa and stop Polydectes from marrying his mother. Perseus represents someone who doesn't give up. This book is true to the ancient myth, and therefore historical.
The illustrations of this book are in color. There are panels. The artwork tells part of the story. The text is in narrative and conversational form.
This book, although it is a Greek myth, is still historical. The ancient Greeks truly believed in the stories of the gods and the heroes that were born to them. Perseus is an actual hero in Greek Mythology. Ancient people would have recognized him. He really went on the quest, to defeat both Medusa and stop Polydectes from marrying his mother. Perseus represents someone who doesn't give up. This book is true to the ancient myth, and therefore historical.
May 3, 2014
I have been exposed to many stories of the beginning of Perseus' journey in retreiving Medusa's head. When it came to the second half of the graphic, I was definitely blown away. After Perseus married the daughter of the king, who was supposed to sacrificed to the Kracken, it was something new. So many ways I was exposed to was the head of Medusa being thrown into the ocean. Instead, in this true legend, it was disposed of 'properly.'
July 19, 2016
Everything anyone would want in a graphic novel! A well told historical tale with fantastic art. A must have addition to any classroom covering Greek Mythology for avid and reluctant readers alike.
August 3, 2018
I picked this up randomly on a clearance shelf and it led to my quest to read all 27 of this series in which I have gotten 22 at basement prices so far and enjoyed them all!
Since I can't choose between the two:
Thomas Yeates the best male (and the most prolific) and Anne Timmons is the best female artist
Since I can't choose between the two:
Thomas Yeates the best male (and the most prolific) and Anne Timmons is the best female artist
April 12, 2010
The art work was decent, but not phenomenal. The story was simplistic (okay, I realize it's a kids' book, but can't there be a bit more finesse?). Stayed true to the story, with no embellishments, but it didn't have very much depth.
June 4, 2018
“Perseus: The Hunt for Medusa's Head”
Zeus comes to the imprisoned virgin Danae and impregnates her! Dodgy!
Very good series giving a generalised overview of the predominant myths and legends that have shaped our worldviews.
- - -
Zeus comes to the imprisoned virgin Danae and impregnates her! Dodgy!
Very good series giving a generalised overview of the predominant myths and legends that have shaped our worldviews.
- - -
Read
October 10, 2016Very Interesting! And adventurous! And brave! Perseus!
December 1, 2018
Greek myths I read as a child done really well as a graphic novel... how can you lose? Wonderful old story, good new art makes for a delightful NEW journey down nostalgia lane.
March 2, 2019
#goodread
I loved that it had visuals and a hero. I recommend this book to people that enjoy comic books. Probably my least favorite character was Medusa’s sister. -10 yr old
I loved that it had visuals and a hero. I recommend this book to people that enjoy comic books. Probably my least favorite character was Medusa’s sister. -10 yr old
May 24, 2019
Excellent
I love the way the person drew it. The story is very interesting too
And it’s like very nice looking
I love the way the person drew it. The story is very interesting too
And it’s like very nice looking
April 7, 2026
Paul D. Storrie and Tom Yeates deliver a vivid and engaging retelling of one of the most iconic Greek myths in “Perseus: The Hunt for Medusa's Head”. This adaptation captures both the grandeur and the tension of Perseus’ legendary quest, making it accessible and exciting for modern readers.
The story moves at a brisk pace, drawing you quickly into Perseus’ seemingly impossible mission. The stakes feel real from the start—facing a monster whose gaze turns men to stone is no small feat—and the narrative does a great job of balancing danger, courage, and divine intervention. Perseus comes across as both brave and relatable, a young hero thrust into extraordinary circumstances but guided by determination and a sense of duty.
One of the standout aspects of this book is how it emphasizes the role of the gods without overshadowing Perseus himself. The assistance he receives feels earned rather than convenient, reinforcing the idea that while fate and divine favor matter, it is ultimately his courage and quick thinking that carry him through.
Tom Yeates’ illustrations add another powerful layer to the storytelling. They are dynamic and atmospheric, enhancing the tension of the journey and bringing the mythological world vividly to life. The depiction of Medusa, in particular, is striking and memorable without being overwhelming.
Overall, this is a compelling and well-crafted retelling that stays true to the spirit of the original myth while making it fresh and engaging. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy mythology, adventure, and stories of heroism against impossible odds.
The story moves at a brisk pace, drawing you quickly into Perseus’ seemingly impossible mission. The stakes feel real from the start—facing a monster whose gaze turns men to stone is no small feat—and the narrative does a great job of balancing danger, courage, and divine intervention. Perseus comes across as both brave and relatable, a young hero thrust into extraordinary circumstances but guided by determination and a sense of duty.
One of the standout aspects of this book is how it emphasizes the role of the gods without overshadowing Perseus himself. The assistance he receives feels earned rather than convenient, reinforcing the idea that while fate and divine favor matter, it is ultimately his courage and quick thinking that carry him through.
Tom Yeates’ illustrations add another powerful layer to the storytelling. They are dynamic and atmospheric, enhancing the tension of the journey and bringing the mythological world vividly to life. The depiction of Medusa, in particular, is striking and memorable without being overwhelming.
Overall, this is a compelling and well-crafted retelling that stays true to the spirit of the original myth while making it fresh and engaging. It’s a great pick for readers who enjoy mythology, adventure, and stories of heroism against impossible odds.
November 24, 2020
This is the story of Perseus and his hunt for the head of Medusa. Perseus fights many foes and finds himself a wife. A prophecy about Perseus also fulfills itself.
I really enjoyed this graphic novel. I’ve never read a Greek myth in a graphic novel format until now. The illustrations were really interesting and helped show me what the characters and people actually looked like.
I would recommend this story to teachers or parents who are having trouble getting their boys to read. I think this would be a great book for boys to get their hands on.
Many of the characters in this book are not white and the characters that appear white may not be. Many of the characters are dark skinned and I noticed some even head dreadlocks. Of course it depends on where each character is from. Different parts of the Mediterranean have people who have lighter or darker skin depending on their area.
I really enjoyed this graphic novel. I’ve never read a Greek myth in a graphic novel format until now. The illustrations were really interesting and helped show me what the characters and people actually looked like.
I would recommend this story to teachers or parents who are having trouble getting their boys to read. I think this would be a great book for boys to get their hands on.
Many of the characters in this book are not white and the characters that appear white may not be. Many of the characters are dark skinned and I noticed some even head dreadlocks. Of course it depends on where each character is from. Different parts of the Mediterranean have people who have lighter or darker skin depending on their area.
October 4, 2020
My Favorite Greek Hero
The story of Perseus is a timeless example of badassery (for lack of a better word). Having read over 15 different versions of the story of Perseus, this graphic novel does a good job of presenting the story accurately and adds its own narrative to help modernize the story.
The story of Perseus is a timeless example of badassery (for lack of a better word). Having read over 15 different versions of the story of Perseus, this graphic novel does a good job of presenting the story accurately and adds its own narrative to help modernize the story.
July 21, 2017
My 8-year-old son brought this one home from the school library. He LOVES anything to do with mythology. This one was well-done. He loved it, and we read it in a single sitting.
September 1, 2020
Amazing
Amazing story. My son loves it very much, he likes all the Greek stories. Looking for more stories like this.
Amazing story. My son loves it very much, he likes all the Greek stories. Looking for more stories like this.
May 1, 2023
A graphic novel treatment of the Ancient Greek myth of Medusa.
I liked Thomas Yeates depiction of Andromeda.
I liked Thomas Yeates depiction of Andromeda.
October 29, 2025
Another read with my cousin. Very engaging for my 8th grader cousin. I learned more about the Medusa tale. Engaging and easy to comprehend. Bonus, it read to us on epic.
May 11, 2017
A decent intro to the Medusa myth for 7 to 12 year olds. Read as part of a strategy to find pathways of connection to get reluctant readers intrigued about literature.
The art is pretty stiff and clunky and the myth is heavily streamlined and sanitized. I'd use this with 3rd though 6th grade as a side item to be read for free choice and would ideally compare it with other, better versions of the myth.
Works well for what it is-- if you're an adult who has an abiding love of graphic novels or Greek myth, there are better works out there.
The art is pretty stiff and clunky and the myth is heavily streamlined and sanitized. I'd use this with 3rd though 6th grade as a side item to be read for free choice and would ideally compare it with other, better versions of the myth.
Works well for what it is-- if you're an adult who has an abiding love of graphic novels or Greek myth, there are better works out there.
August 9, 2013
Audience: ages 10 and up
Perseus, son of Zeus and the mortal princess, Danae, is on a mission to slay the gorgon, Medusa and return with her head. His wild journey brings him to the shores of Ethiopia where he must battle a terrible kraken in order to save the beautiful Princess Andromeda. Just when his adventure seems to be drawing to a close, Perseus is met with a new battle in his homeland.
In true epic form, Storrie begins the tale in medias res and, drawing from a number of older sources including Thomas Bulfinch's The Age of Fable and Edith Hamilton's Mythology, explains Perseus's unusual familial history. The colorful, superhero style images depict the ancient myth with new-found energy and excitement. The book includes a "Glossary and Pronunciation Guide" as well as list of "Further Reading, Websites, and Movies". This lively re-telling of the ancient story is recommended as a supplemental purchase for children and teen collections.
Perseus, son of Zeus and the mortal princess, Danae, is on a mission to slay the gorgon, Medusa and return with her head. His wild journey brings him to the shores of Ethiopia where he must battle a terrible kraken in order to save the beautiful Princess Andromeda. Just when his adventure seems to be drawing to a close, Perseus is met with a new battle in his homeland.
In true epic form, Storrie begins the tale in medias res and, drawing from a number of older sources including Thomas Bulfinch's The Age of Fable and Edith Hamilton's Mythology, explains Perseus's unusual familial history. The colorful, superhero style images depict the ancient myth with new-found energy and excitement. The book includes a "Glossary and Pronunciation Guide" as well as list of "Further Reading, Websites, and Movies". This lively re-telling of the ancient story is recommended as a supplemental purchase for children and teen collections.
August 3, 2016
Having taught "The Gorgon's Head" for years to sixth graders, I seek out other versions of the tale to enhance my teaching. This version is straightforward with the basic plot, but it doesn't add much for characterization or backstory. Athena: Grey-Eyed Goddess does a better job explaining why Athena helps Perseus and references the myth of Pegasus's birth better and the artwork is spectacular. Perseus explains the relationships between Dictys, Polydectes, and Danae much better.
I do like the ethnic choices, however, and the scene of Perseus and Andromeda's wedding feast. The artist and author did a good job demonstrating some of the politics and emotions that contributed to the conflict.
I do like the ethnic choices, however, and the scene of Perseus and Andromeda's wedding feast. The artist and author did a good job demonstrating some of the politics and emotions that contributed to the conflict.
December 22, 2011
Part of a collection of Mythology Graphic Novels I picked up for my classroom. Good for helping to build background knowledge but not necessarily great. Kids will devour these.
February 6, 2015
perseus had to kill the deadliest creature of all time. the gods gave him weapons to do it. after he killed it he went to claim his reward.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews