Young readers will be spellbound by the story of Hercules, the legendary hero of heroes whose name is synonymous with strength and adventure. The immortal strongman narrates a gripping tale that begins with his birth to a mortal woman admired by Zeus and concludes with his ascension to the glorious halls of Olympos...

Young readers will be spellbound by the story of Hercules, the legendary hero of heroes whose name is synonymous with strength and adventure. The immortal strongman narrates a gripping tale that begins with his birth to a mortal woman admired by Zeus and concludes with his ascension to the glorious halls of Olympos.

With great pride, Hercules relates the spectacular deeds by which he achieved immortality. His twelve labors under the command of King Eurystheus are recounted in thrilling detail, including duels with such fabulous monsters as the many-headed, fire-breathing hydra and the man-eating mares of King Diomedes. Encounters with Hippolyte, Queen of the Amazons, Cerberos, the hellhound sentry of the underworld, and many other characters from mythology recreate a timeless world of excitement and adventure.

This easy-to-read version, enhanced with 16 new illustrations by Thea Kliros, is a wonderful initiation to the drama and splendor of ancient myths. Youngsters already familiar with Hercules from television and film versions will enjoy reading about other feats by the intrepid hero.

1. My Birth, Childhood and Youth

2. I Go into the World

3. My First Labor: To Kill the Nemean Lion

4. I Meet Iolaos, and Do Two Labors, but Get Credit for Only One

5. The Centaurs and the Boar

6. I Clean the Augean Stables

7. The Birds and the Bull

8. I Wrestle with Death and Meet the Man-eating Horses

9. I Bring Back Hippolyte’s Belt and Fight Poseidon’s Dragon

10. The Monster Geryon and His Beautiful Cattle

11. The End of My Labors

12. My Revenge on Troy and My Fight Alongside the Gods

13. My Marriage, Death and Immortal Life