Gods, Goddesses, and Mythology, edited by C. Scott Littleton. 11 vols. 1,584p. Tarrytown, NY: Marshall Cavendish, 2005. 0-7614-7559-1; 2004-40758. $459.95.

This wonderfully illustrated guide to world mythology is intended for high school and adult audiences. A wide range of world religions, myths, beliefs and rituals are described in 303 alphabetically arranged entries, which have a primary emphasis on classical mythology. From Achilles to Zeus, the minor and major figures of Greek and Roman myths are featured in two- to eight-page articles. The entries describe the important attributes of the god or goddess, recount major stories, explore sources and explain forms of worship. The continuing influence of myths on art and literature receives special attention, and the hundreds of illustrations are deliberately drawn from ancient to modern art. Norse mythology also receives numerous entries. Otherwise, only selected deities from Baal to Quetzalcoatl receive separate entries. Worldwide coverage is achieved with 28 articles on regions and cultures around the globe. Articles on worship and ritual also compare and contrast different beliefs regarding animals, calendars, plants, the sun, moon, sky and stars. To aid the user, each volume is separately indexed. Appendices include a pronunciation guide, summaries of major world pantheons, a glossary and research guides. In addition to the comprehensive index, special indexes include mythological beings, art, places, peoples, history and legend, and worship and rituals. An excellent introductory tool, this guide will serve high school, public and undergraduate collections.