Myths have always inspired stories as well as guided people’s lives. At the same time, they have also been a thing of beauty to ignite the fascination of children and give them wings to explore new worlds through the tales told. “Just Another Myth” by Priyanshu Goyal is a captivating collection of stories that takes readers on a spellbinding journey into the mystical world of folklore and mythology. With an ardent fascination for the power of myths, the author delves deep into the enchanting realm of surreal characters, extraordinary creatures, and ancient wisdom, exploring their subtle influence on our daily lives. The author’s skills as a story weaver and narrator come to light through the book, and his craft in making them interesting also shows up throughout the collection.
Goyal’s exploration of myths began with a profound appreciation for the term “mythic” and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and awe. Intrigued by the captivating tales from various mythologies, the author embarked on a quest to unravel their timeless wisdom and uncover their relevance in the modern world. With meticulous attention to detail, each story in the collection is crafted with care and precision, reflecting the author’s dedication to their craft. “Just Another Myth” also serves the purpose of reinforcing mythological reading by taking mythological characters like “Medusa,” “Sisyphus,” and titling stories after them.
“Just Another Myth” presents an array of stories inspired by Greek, Norse, and Indian mythology, as well as chilling creepypastas that offer a spine-tingling experience for those who dare to venture into the darker realms of the supernatural. However, these stories are far from being mere retellings of ancient fables; they are imaginative reinterpretations that infuse each scene with a fresh perspective and unexpected twists. Goyal’s unique voice shines through as they seamlessly blend elements of fantasy, adventure, and suspense, creating a tapestry of narratives that captivate and enthrall readers. Although the stories are mythology based, they still have an intangible modern touch, which distinguishes them from the kinds written earlier.
What sets “Just Another Myth” apart is the author’s ability to explore the subtle ways in which these myths inspire and influence our real-world experiences. Goyal skillfully weaves together elements of ancient tales with contemporary themes and issues, showcasing the enduring relevance of mythology in our lives. From stories that explore the complexities of human nature to those that shed light on the power of compassion and resilience, each tale carries a profound message that resonates with readers. Stories like “Touch of Love,” “An Accidental Legend,” “Two Faces of Truth” show the artistic capabilities of the author and hence, also provide stories of different tastes to readers. This ensures that every kind of reader can find stories of their interest.
Goyal’s writing style is accessible and engaging, catering to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether well-versed in mythology or newcomers to the genre, readers will find themselves drawn into the stories, eagerly turning the pages to unravel the mysteries that lie within. The author’s passion for the subject matter is palpable, permeating every sentence with a sense of wonder and intrigue. He also uses image representations here and there to give the readers’ imaginations new flights into the realms of fantasy. This would also serve to encourage the creative faculties of children through usage of their imagination.
“Just Another Myth” is not simply a book for entertainment; it serves as an invitation for readers to reflect on the significance of mythology and its enduring relevance in our modern world. By delving into these timeless tales, Goyal prompts readers to reconnect with the magic that resides within each and every one of us, igniting our imagination and reminding us of the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the world. In consideration of these features and qualities, the book is recommended not only to grown-up readers but also to young readers who may not be entirely familiar with mythology. While the familiar readers can easily join the dots, the readers new to mythology can develop a newfound understanding and may also explore this genre of literary writing further.
“Just Another Myth” by Priyanshu Goyal is a captivating collection of stories that rejuvenates ancient tales with a fresh perspective. Through skillful storytelling, the author transports readers to mythical realms where the extraordinary becomes tangible. With its blend of adventure, suspense, timeless wisdom, and thought-provoking themes, this book inspires and entertains, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the power of mythology. Will these myths become “Just Another Myth,” or will they continue to inspire and captivate readers for generations to come? Only time will tell, but for now, readers are invited to embark on a journey into the mystical world crafted by Priyanshu Goyal and discover the magic that lies within us all.
Title: Just Another Myth
Author: Priyanshu Goyal
Publisher: Astitva Prakashan, 2023
Reviewed by: Akhila Saroha
Order Book: Amazon.
