Hades Speaks!: A Guide to the Underworld by the Greek God of the Dead

Hades Speaks!

by Vicky Alvear Shecter, J.E. Larson (Illustrator)

Hades, god of the dead, welcomes readers on a dangerous tour of his underworld kingdom, filled with monsters, furies, giants, and vampire demons. Along the way, he reveals ancient death rites and sinister curses, tells hair-raising stories, and cracks jokes to die for. With his witty voice and ghoulish sense of humor, Hades is the perfect guide through this fresh and imaginative work of nonfiction that reads like a novel. Includes a glossary, bibliography, and index.

Genres: Mythology, Nonfiction, Humor, Greek Mythology, Middle Grade, Childrens, History

128 pages, Hardcover

Published September 1, 2014

About the author

Vicky Alvear Shecter/Victoria Alvear writes about the ancient world and the often disturbing parallels with today's political unrest and misogynistic backlash. She writes as Victoria Alvear for adults. Her latest book is THE CLEANSING, based on the true story of an ancient Roman Vestal Virgin falsely accused of having sex and fighting in court to keep from being buried alive for her so-called "crime." Midwest Book Reviews called the book, "Original, exceptional, deftly crafted and a simply riveting read from cover to cover."

For nearly twenty years, she has served as a docent at the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Antiquities at Emory University, where she regularly engages the public on the fascinating aspects of ancient life and politics.

Reviews

[Jillyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's no secret that I love mythology. I have a degree in ancient civilizations and classics for a reason! No matter if they're historical texts or picture books, I'm always a sucker for myths. Of the Grecian pantheon, my favorite god is the often misunderstood and underrated Hades. So when I saw this book, I had to give it a go. I wasn't disappointed.

Hades Speaks! is a book that stands apart to me because it's actually written from the perspective of Hades giving the reader a tour of the Underworld. That's such a cool way to present this information, especially since it's a middle grade-ish age book. It makes learning fun, and makes it easy to forget that you're even learning at all.

I appreciated that Hades wasn't boring or cookie cutter. He had some depth and development as a character. He was bitter towards his siblings and a bit of a complainer- which if you've read anything about Hades, that's pretty accurate. But he cracks a few jokes and just wants to clear up his side of history that pop culture has gotten wrong. There's even a reference to Harry Potter & Fluffy.

The journey through the afterlife of the fallen Greeks is a very enjoyable one. There's a good flow. The information is explained by way of story telling, so it's not just an information dump of Greek facts. You're introduced to different monsters and underworld inhabitants that aren't really mentioned much, at least here in the US. (Shoutout to my girl Hecate who never gets much representation).

There's also illustrations throughout the book. They're well done, and really accentuate the texts.

If you, or your children, are interested in learning about Greek gods, this book is a great way to learn. Hades Speaks! should be a welcome addition to any classroom or library. I look forward to reading other books about the gods in this series.

[Aeicha · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Hades Speaks!: A Guide to the Underworld by the Greek God of the Dead, author Vicky Alvear Shecter takes readers on a wildly entertaining and captivating journey through the Underworld. Narrated by Hades himself, the snarktastic God explores not only his fiery realm, but offers an informative glimpse into many aspects of Greek myths and legends.

Though Hades Speaks!: A Guide to the Underworld by the Greek God of the Dead is considered non-fiction, it reads very much like an exciting, twists and turns filled middle-grade adventure. Full of fascinating facts, spellbinding myths, laugh-out-loud humor, and sparkling writing, this is a completely addictive and charming book. Vicky Alvear Shecter lays out the Underworld in rich, vivid details, exploring every nook and cranny, sharing fun myths and facts along the way. Young readers will be simply mesmerized by this complex world and its unforgettable inhabitants. The Greek myths and figures introduced are explored in age-appropriate ways while keeping all the over-the-top, stunning, startling, sometimes wacky elements intact. Hades makes for a highly amusing narrator with his snarky, irresistible humor. I loved every moment of my time with this underrated god!

I’m a huge Greek mythology fan and found myself completely enthralled by the fantastical stories Hades spins. Young readers will have so much fun reading Hades Speaks, but they will also learn a great deal as well. I found the glossary especially informative and handy!

My Final Thoughts: Bursting with humor, fantastical myths, creatures, and stories, and a pitch-perfect voice, young and old readers alike will gobble this fun book up! Hades Speaks!: A Guide to the Underworld by the Greek God of the Dead is perfect for younger readers interested in Greek mythology and for Percy Jackson fans.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the complaints Hades has about his upstart YOUNGER brother, Zeus, and all the trouble Zeus and his kids (such as that pain, Herakles) made for Hades. This is a lighthearted intro to Greek mythology, with allusions to Harry Potter, Percy Johnson and others to make this attractive to today's youth. There is a list of deities, a glossary and an extensive bibliography, showing just how much work Shecter put into a relatively simple book for youth. I am impressed when an author instead of dashing something off, puts in the work to make sure it is right! There are primary sources as well as journal articles and titles from both adult and juvenile literature. Highly recommended. Now to go see if anyone ever ordered the one on Egyptian gods.....

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun tour of the Underworld presented by a bitter, sarcastic Hades - kids will enjoy his narrative voice and the wide-ranging topics related to Greek history and mythology that he introduces. Includes a helpful cast of characters and a glossary at the end.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative and humorous!!

[Stephanie (Bookfever) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Hades Speaks! I don't remember the last time I've laughed so much with a book. It was so hilarious and I only wish when I was younger there were books like this teaching me about history and mythology. That would've made things a whole lot more interesting.

Just like with Anubus (Speaks!) I laughed my ass off with Hades. I love how the author portrays and writes these gods and lets them take us on a tour through their world. I simply adore it. It's even better because I'm so fascinated by ancient Greece and their mythology. The book is written in a fun yet informative way and there were lots of pop culture references such as Harry Potter and Percy Jackson - I loved that.

The illustrations are wonderful. I loved the way Hades and everything else was drawn. This is why I want these books (Anubus Speaks and Hades Speaks) in a physical copy. I'm sure they'll be gorgeous to look at. Ah, someday!

Like I said before, this book is hilarious and Hades made me laugh out loud too many times to count. The comical part of this book is what makes this book so good—that and learning more about ancient Greece, the gods and everything in between.

Funny, interesting, quick and with beautiful illustrations, Hades Speaks!: A Guide to the Underworld by the Greek God of the Dead by Vicky Alvear Shecter was a fantastic read, one of my favorites of 2014 and I would recommend it to absolutely everyone! Seriously, go read it now!

[Chio Duran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words cannot describe how much I adore this book! First of all, the book is written in a second person narration which makes you feel you are indeed traveling to the underworld.

Second of all, the text is funny, fresh, and extremely entertaining. I can see this book being read by kids all over the place, for its magnetic plot and creepy pictures will have kids turning the pages.

I recently graduated from college with a degree in Classical Studies, so I like to think of myself as somewhat instructed in this area, and this author sure knows her history!!! I mean she covers many imperative aspects of Greek mythology and turns them into stories that kids will find enthralling. Some of the subjects she mentions are Greek Legends such as gods, philosophers, politicians, monsters, titans, and other creatures. She also writes about other cultural aspects such as rituals, mysteries, and funerary practices.

All in all, amazing reading. Like I said before, I cannot repeat enough how much I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait for future books of this author! Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to review this piece of fun history. (I would love to see an audiobook version of this story, it would be truly epic!). Read, live, and imagine! :)

I received a review copy from Netgalley

[Miss Ryoko · Rating 2 out of 5]

Actual rating: 2.5

I picked this book up at the library book sale because the illustrations looked rad, I enjoy learning about Greek gods, and Hades happens to be my favorite of the Greek gods. It was an okay book. For an educational book, I think it was written in a way that would appeal to kids. I just wasn't digging it so much. However, I loved the hell out of the awesome illustrations.

What was interesting to me was in the beginning Hades complained that people called his realm Hades but then throughout the rest of the book, that's what he called it too. Um... okay. And while I agree Hades is the most bad ass of all gods (though I might be biased simply based off THIS Hades: ) he was slightly annoying with how many times he griped about getting no respect or people not worshiping him, etc. It was entirely too much. I wanted to say "We get it!"

It was interesting enough. I might check out the other books in the series. For an educational book, at least it feels like interesting fiction, so that's cool. I just felt like it could have been a lot more awesome. But I didn't mind it.

[Sarah Threlkeld · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solidly written book about Greek mythology as told from the POV of Hades. I was expecting more of a story or narrative arc, but the book often felt like standard nonfiction aimed at intermediate grade students. This will appeal to Percy Jackson fans, but probably won't be as popular as the Myth-O-Rama series.

[Bethe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Everything you wanted to know about Hades but we're afraid to ask - in Hades own words. Nice tongue in cheek intro to Greek mythology. Caution: the word hell shows up quite often.

[Maranda Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome book! Hades is by far my favorite mythological deity, so I was excited to read a book from his point of view and this one definitely didn't disappoint! I loved the sense of humor throughout, it seemed perfect for the Lord of the Underworld. I think kids are bound to love this book as it is by turns creepy and dark, but also really funny and lighthearted at times. A great pick for fans of Percy Jackson and other similar series.

[Oracle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way that this came together made the reader encounter such an amazing and comforting experience. For those who may not have a firm understanding of Hades' job in Ancient and Modern times this book is an amazing and SUPER friendly way to get to know the Greek God. He's not a scary guy... Just a little misunderstood. This is THE BEST way to get over any fears one may have when delving into the knowledge. ❤

[Piyali · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Greco Roman myths from the perspective of Hades. Interested in knowing what my kids in the book club thought about the reliability of the narrator. Although a non fiction book, this certainly reads like fast paced fiction. Little nuggets of information about the rites, rituals and myths of ancient Greeks and Romans are delivered in a fun and witty narrative.

[B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Humorous approach to Greek mythology with whiny Hades talking about his realm and all the crazy creatures within plus more tidbits about the various Greek Gods and well known Greek people resting in Elysium.

I appreciated all the pronunciation help plus the glossaries and all of the wonderfully eerie black and white drawings.

[Elia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well researched and a fun reimagining of the Old God of the Dead.

[Dodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the audiobook. I think it was about two hours. I would recommend this book to children who want to learn more about Hades and the realm he rules. Very interesting.

[Hanadi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Yael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, beautifully illustrated by J. E. Larson, is nevertheless somewhat disappointing, both historically and because of the rather snarky tone of the narrative. It takes the form of a monologue by Hades, ruler of the Underworld and Judge of the newly dead, Who is escorting a human being down into His realm to show him/her what it comprises and the history of some of the famous humans and demigods that have visited it. The humans, of course, ultimately ended up there in Hades's realm, but the demigods, such as Hercules and Chiron, were often placed among the stars by Zeus, ruler of the Olympian deities, becoming holy constellations.

Hades describes such humans, Gods, demigods, and events in ways that are similar to those given by Hesiod, Homer, Herodotus, other ancient and Classical Greek poets, playwrights, and historians, not to mention critically important modern sources such as Robert Graves (and see also Robert Graves 2). The problem is that He does so in a sort of bitter, stand-up comic, pseudo-American Yiddish way that is not at all faithful to the way in which the Greeks themselves reviewed their Gods and, above all, Hades and His wife and queen, Persephone. Even Shecter's treatment of Their dog, Cerberus, is rather tacky.

At times the book is humorous, but almost by accident -- and not always for the right reasons. And throughout the narrative is such that the Classical and ancient Greeks themselves would either have doubled over in hysterical laughter at it or gone on the warpath against the author (the illustrator, J. E. Larson, however, would have received garlands and great appreciation from the Greeks, for the book's illustrations are sublime black-and-white renditions of Hades and Persephone, Their realm, and the monsters, demons, and others who share it with them -- contrasted with the narrative, those splendid illustrations seem to be in bad company).

At times I am reminded of that all-time Disney animated horror, Hercules , which trivialized Hercules' accomplishments, danced around the question of his parentage (i.e., in the film, Hera, rather than the mortal Alcmene, was Hercules's mother), and made the whole thing into a rather confusing and, at times, stupid musical rather than the Greek tragedy that was Hercules' life. Also, the film-makers presented Hades as a crude and ugly caricature of the Judeochristian Satan, which Hades, resembling his Gothic counterpart, Batman, both handsome and a just judge and not a perpetrator of evil, most certainly was not. In fact, in the entire film, the only accurate elements were that Hercules' father was Zeus, King of the Gods, and a Centaur that turned up as a villain. The Centaur was exactly like the overwhelming majority of Greek Centaurs -- vicious, dangerous, cruel, barbaric, ugly, stupid, and totally uncivilized. Only a handful of them, such as Chiron, were benign, learned, and gracious. The rest were nightmares on hooves, and the Centaur in Hercules was exactly that.

The book's narrative is fascinating, though. Inaccurate as it may be, it does present the Underworld is much the same way that the Greeks believed it to be, populated with monsters and demons very much part of the original myths about Hades. The story it tells, whatever its flaws, is still enchanting -- in the somewhat crude words of a friend of mine, it "gives good story." And its illustrations are worth the price of the book and then some, Gothic art at its best. At $13.42 for the hardback edition and $6.15 on Kindle, it's very much worth the price. (But please, please, PLEASE put out some doggie treats for Cerberus and gifts for Hades and His wife if you do read it, especially if you buy it.)

I give this one 4 stars.

[Bruce Gargoyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full review at http://thebookshelfgargoyle.wordpress... (Aug 18)

I received a digital copy of this title for review from the publisher via Netgalley.

Ten Second Synopsis:
Hades takes the reader on a tour of the Ancient Greek Underworld. Pay close attention and you may just get out alive!

I found this to be a particularly thorough and cerebral take on Ancient Greek mythology for an upper-middle-grade audience. I was surprised at the level at which this book was pitched – I was expecting something more along the lines of the Horrible Histories series, with cartoonish illustrations and a highly visual format, but the book follows a fairly standard format with page or double-page spread illustrations appearing between chapters. The book actually goes into a fair bit of detail, recounting relevant myths about each part of the Underworld, and giving a very detailed overview of how Hades and the Underworld fit into the lives of the Ancient Greeks and Romans.

This would be a great addition or companion book for those interested in Ancient Greek mythology, or for those who are looking for a way to get historical information into the hands of middle-graders in a palatable way. The whole vibe of the book suggests to me that it would best suit the upper end of the middle grade bracket, or even those in the younger YA set who are looking for an alternative to straight fiction. The illustrations are stark (but stunning!) detailed black and white line drawings that really add to the impression that these are “serious” myths – ones that have shaped Western culture and literature. As an adult reader, I found it to be a succinct but detailed introduction to Hades and the Underworld, with a narrative style that really leant authenticity to the concept of touring the Underworld. I’d certainly recommend this book to confident young readers who like to indulge their intellectual appetites through myth and legend.

[Erik This Kid Reviews Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Synopsis- Have you ever wondered what it is like to be the Lord of the Dead? Or to have people coming to your doorstep, just because you could bring people back to life? That’s the Greek God of the Dead, Hades’, daily experience. Hades leads you through a friendly, behind-the-scenes tour of his realm. Have fun! And watch out for the Furies!

What I Liked- This book is written like I like them – good story with an edge of humor. For example, Hades, even though he is the Greek Lord of the Dead, actually seems like a nice guy, in a god of the dead sort of way. He has a witty sense of humor and is a good tour guide through the underworld. He talks to you, the reader, as he explains a bit about some of the Greek myths and traditions. That was really cool. There are great black and white illustrations scattered throughout the book. They portray the feeling of the book very well. I laughed out loud when Hades said that he was angry at Harry Potter for calling Hades’ hell-hound “Fluffy” and that Lord Voldemort copied his name “He Who Shall Not Be Named,” as Hades was called by the Greeks. I think that this book would be a good one for reluctant readers of any kids interested in mythology. I am interested in reading the other books in the Secrets of the Ancient Gods series after reading this one.
*NOTE* I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an awesome introduction to the Greek Gods and their idiosyncrasies and the afterlife beliefs of their followers. It was also very accurate which is hard to find these days. The author clearly did her research extensively with true sources from pure ancient knowledge. Too many people now don't see the point of differentiating between the (Original) Greek Gods and the (knockoff stolen)Roman Gods and that makes me very annoyed. I find usually anything to do with the Greek Pantheon is usually too flawed and muddied for me to enjoy but this was awesome!

Hades is the narrator of this book and takes a random mortal (you the reader) on a tour of the many levels of the Underworld and also tells anecdotal stories of the Gods and heroes associated with the many different locations to flesh out the realm for his visitor. The setting and execution of this book was just perfect and incredibly original. I was very sad when it ended. This was by far the best book I have ever read on the Greek Mythos and ancient religion! I would definitely read this to my children and cannot wait to read more books by this amazing author!

***This book is suitable for advanced grade school readers on up but can easily be read to younger children or less advanced readers

[Wayne McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Hades Speaks!: A Guide to the Underworld by the Greek God of the Dead' gives you a personal tour of Hades' realm by the god himself. It's also got some great illustrations.

Hades gives you a personal tour of his realm along with stories of the famous characters who he's run across. He has a serious dislike for his little brother Zeus and his nephew Herakles. Areas like Elysium, Tartaros, the Asphodel Fields and the river Styx are all covered.

I liked the attitude that Hades comes across with. I think this would be perfect for younger readers who want to read more about Greek mythology after reading some of the Percy Jackson series. The illustrations by J. E. Larson were wonderfully gothic and creepy. The book finishes with an index and a guide to the Greek gods. Also included is a sneak peak of the next book, 'Anubis Speaks.' Perfect for 9-12 year old readers.

I was given a review copy of this ebook by Boyds Mills Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long before Voldemort there was an original ‘He Who Must Not Be Named’: Hades. And, if you dare, he is here to take you on a personal tour of his dark realm. Schecter follows her excellent Anubis Speaks (BMP, 2013) with a tour of the Greek and Roman underworld designed to creep you out. Hades may have a chip on his shoulder about being the least known and worshiped of his brothers: Zeus and Poseidon, but he definitely has the best stories to tell, and as Larson’s pen and ink illustrations show, a personal-style rock stars would die for. Readers will be both entertained and come away with a smattering of knowledge about the greats of the Greek and Roman world. And to balance out the Plato and Aristotle, who can resist knowing which hero left half his rear-end stuck to the Throne of Forgetfulness? A Guide to Gods and Heroes, an extensive glossary, a thorough bibliography that includes web sources, and an index establish the scholarly bona fides. Sure to please reluctant readers, fans of Percy Jackson.

[Sharlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was received as the result of a First Reads.

I love when I can find a book that I can give my kids to read. I have criteria that I feel should be met and this one hits every one of them. It does covers a dark topic, with snippets of humour and lots of facts. It's interesting without feeling like a text book and it's written well!

While it covers Greek mythology, the author does poke at Roman mythology versions here and there. I actually found this amusing and a great way to compare both cultures.

The back of the book does a breakdown of the who's who in the book which was quite helpful to someone who honestly knows what she did know about mythology from TV and movies that she watched. I know...sinful!

This is well written, well edited and full of great information that is delivered in the most entertaining of methods. This would be a great book to use in an classroom that is covering Greek beliefs.

Fantastic read!

[Urthwild Darkness Beckons · Rating 3 out of 5]

All you ever wanted to know about Greek mythology, but were afraid to ask.

You are taken on an extensively researched journey through Hades, learning about and occasionally meeting characters from folklore.

A comprehensive list of the jealous deities, mythical monsters, heroes, demi-gods and other leading figures from ancient Greek mythology pop-up throughout, written in a highly satirical manner, the reader is part of the action from the offset. As well as introductions with the infamous, we are also told about the rites and customs, sacrifices and superstitions of this bygone era.

I never felt lectured, the humour never drags. An easy accessible and informative way for youngsters and everyone else to learn about Greek lore.

Cover art and internal illustrations by J. E. Larson.



Received for an honest review

Urthwild

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series by Vicky Alvear Shecter. The Anubis one was certainly entertaining and this Hades follow-up is just as fun. Hades takes us on a personal tour of the Land of the Dead. He is sarcastic and funny and very informative. In between tales of how his younger brother Zeus causes him no end of misery, he imparts all kinds of historical stories from Greek and Roman times. There is a lot of humor mixed in with all the historical information. I think kids will appreciate the fact that they are being entertained and educated at the same time. I can't wait to see who comes next in this series.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.

[Iz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 (Just because I think it was really short, and I wanted more.)

I really really enjoyed this! I was a bit skeptical at first because (I'm not going to lie, I judged by the cover) but it was really good!

I loved the illustrations! It goes really well with the story, and the flow. I think this is actually an educational book, as I have learned things I didn't know before, and understood better.

The character of Hades was funny and sarcastic, and I think it works well.

Over all, it was great and if I see this book on the shelves of the bookstores here, I'd buy it!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Told in 2nd person - Hades gives the reader a tour of The Greek Underworld - The House of Hades. Sprinkled with vocabulary and historical fact, this book would appeal to 3-6th graders interested in mythology. Black and white stark illustrations are clever and interesting. A different kind of Hades story - as Hades is depicted with snarky humor and makes clever references to women's rights and global warming. Interesting book.

[Annice22 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review.

The God of the underworld gives the reader a tour of his domain in this dark yet humorous look of Greek Mythology. From tales of ancient Greece to tales of death, Hades shows how the ancient world considered death.

Because of the theme of this book as well as Hades personality and humor this book is probably for middle grade readers and older.

[Hayley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in a exuberant and wise-cracking style, Hades Speaks! is a great introduction to Greek mythology. I prefer this book to the earlier Anubis Speaks! as it's a bit tighter, better illustrated and the source material is better organized. My full review is here.