Heroes of Olympus.(Brief article)(Children's review)(Book review)

Heroes of Olympus Philip Freeman, adapted by Laurie Calkhoven, illus, by Drew Willis. Simon & Schuster, $16.99 (352p) ISBN 978-1-4424-1729-8

This competent introduction to Greek mythology, adapted from Freeman's recent adult title Oh My Gods, begins with a description of Creation, followed by sections on major and minor deities, heroes, lovers, and such stories as the fall of Troy and the founding of Rome, among other popular tales. A great deal of space is devoted to Zeus's love affairs and, more often, rapes. Other gods generally receive a page or two, although some who are naturals for a young audience--like Ares and Athena--are …