Retellings

If you enjoy a blend of humor and fantasy, "The Birth of the Monkey King" could definitely be a delightful escape. The illustrations bring the mischievous Sun Wukong to life in an irresistible way. It's a fresh and accessible take on a classic story, and the manhua style makes for a visually unique reading experience you'll likely want to come back to.

Set in the timeless world of Japanese Mythology, Sei tells the story of the uncertain origin of the Japanese equivalent of Death, the female Grim Reaper. Sei is an epic legend about love and betrayal taking place in a world of Gods, Goddesses and mythical creatures. Tsuchi, the fire goddess, tells the story of how her birth caused the death of her mother, Izanami. Izanagi is so distraught by his wife's death that he goes berserk. His desire to be reunited with Izanami brings him to the farthest reaches of the Netherlands where no mortal may fear to tread. A battle of epic proportions ensues in which mythical Japan will never be the same... but was Sei formerly Izanami, the primordial goddess and personification of the Earth and darkness...?

If you enjoy a unique blend of modern-day teenage romance with tales of mythology, then "Avalon High: Coronation #1: The Merlin Prophecy" by Meg Cabot is the perfect read for you. The book tells the story of Ellie, a new student at Avalon High who is dating the super-hot class president, Will, who is supposed to be the reincarnation of King Arthur. The book is a captivating blend of fiction, romance, and mysticism and will transport you to a world where anything is possible. The most unique aspect of this book is its creative reimagining of classic tales of King Arthur and his court in modern times, which makes it an enjoyable read for both teenagers and young adults.

If you're fascinated by the seamless blend of the mundane with the surreal, Murakami's storytelling style in graphic novel form could bring you a fresh experience. The visuals promise to complement the enigmatic nature of his stories, from the oddly liberating quest in "The Second Bakery Attack" to the reverse metamorphosis in "Samsa in Love," and the mystical self-discovery in "Thailand." Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, you'll appreciate this unique adaptation.