From Publishers Weekly
Cognizant of the increasing popularity of single-volume versions of ancient myths, Fisher ( The Olympians ; Theseus and the Minotaur ) again mines Greek mythology for inspiration, as he recounts the tale of Jason and the Argonauts' quest for the golden fleece. Drawing on acknowledged sources, the retelling would have benefited from more elaboration. Readers may have some difficulty in following this character-rich tale, since not all of its subjects are depicted in the illustrations. Nevertheless, the book is well-paced, all of the story's major elements are included and readers will certainly be carried along by the episodic flow. Fisher's vivid art makes masterful use of each spread to advance the narative and expand the text. Ages 6-9.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6-- Powerful paintings in intense jewel tones add dimension to this retelling of the classical myth. Challenged by King Pelias (who is occupying the throne rightly belonging to Jason's father), Jason sails forth to capture the Golden Fleece from distant Colchis. Four impossible tasks prescribed by the King of Colchis are accomplished with the help of Medea, the king's daughter, and the two escape with the Golden Fleece. Jason, Medea, and their two sons are happy, until Jason falls in love with Glauce. Tragedy upon tragedy then befalls him; he wanders Greece alone for the rest of his days. Each of the obstacles and dangers Jason overcomes is briefly but effectively depicted in a few short paragraphs accompanied by brilliant paintings. Jason is pictured as dark and sturdy, the kings are evil-looking, the dangers looming and fearsome. The paintings alone will make this an appealing introduction to the myth, and a stylized map at the beginning adds authenticity. For more in-depth versions, see Bernard Evslin's Jason and the Argonauts (Morrow, 1986) or Padraic Colum's The Golden Fleece (Collier, 1983). --Virginia Opocensky, formerly at Lincoln City Libraries, NB
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.