Book Review: Medusa the Mean (Goddess Girls #8)

Media Type: Print Book
Title: Medusa the Mean
   *Series: Goddess Girls #8
Author: Joan Holub, Suzanne Williams
Publisher: Aladdin
Pages: Paperback; 256
Release Date: April 3, 2012
Source: Author / Teen Book Scene
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Intended Reading Group: Middle Grade
Content Screening: Nothing of note!
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HDB Rating: 4 Keys to My Heart
Recommended to: Young readers who love a good adventure, and are interested in Greek Mythology.

Add it on: Goodreads / Shelfari /Amazon / B&N

Medusa is the ultimate mean girl in this series that blends modern drama with ancient myths.Well researched and true to the original myths, each volume in the Goddess Girls series addresses contemporary issues, like friendships and relationships, from a classically accurate—and entertaining—perspective.

In Medusa the Mean, Medusa is sick and tired of being the only mortal at Mount Olympus Academy. Not only is she surrounded by beautiful, powerful, immortal classmates, but she also has snakes for hair and a reputation for being mean. Immortality, she thinks, will solve everything. So when she finds out about a necklace that promises just that, she’s sure it will help her get the two things she covets most: to be as popular as the four Goddess Girls and to have her supercrush, Poseidon, finally notice her. But when the necklace brings about popularity in the totally wrong way, things go from bad to worse. Can Medusa overcome her “meanie” status and prove that there’s more to her that meets the eye?

If you haven’t yet discovered The Goddess Girls Series, allow me to introduce you. This wonderful set of books is all about mixing classic mythology with modern day girls and guys. Trust me, it’s a ton of fun to read! Although these books are slated for Middle Graders, I see no reason why older aged readers wouldn’t like them as well. After all, I’m almost 30, and I love them still!

In this particular installment, we get to see a lot further into Medusa’s past and why she earned the title “Queen of Mean”. The thing is, Medusa isn’t really all that bad! Sadly she’s just been told her whole life that she isn’t special, and that she shouldn’t try. Now here is why I love Medusa as a character. Despite everything else, this girl has dreams! She works hard for them and I see her as a way to teach young readers that if you work hard for something, chances are you can achieve it.

What’s really sweet about Medusa the Mean is that you get to see her blossom. Making new friends, realizing that sometimes you have to trust others, and even finally seeing how her “supercrush” really is on the inside. The story line in this book is so fun! It’s quick moving, there are silly jokes, and the way that the characters interact is perfect. I loved the fact that in this book Medusa is no longer just the “mean girl” character. She really comes into her own, and it’s fabulous!

Long story short, this is a great series and Medusa the Mean is no exception to that rule! If you have a young reader at home, put this book into their hands. These work great as standalone novels, or you can go back to beginning and let them experience the whole series. Either way, these are sure to be a hit in your home!

FTC Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I was not monetarily compensated for my opinion.