This was the first of the series that I read so I am missing some background info. However, I still found the book to be a fun ride through history and a great way to introduce kids to Greek mythology. If I still had young children or taught lower elementary I'd definitely have this series! ( )

Another adventure for Julius and his animal crew. Having conquered Roman hearts and minds as a gladiator, subdued Britain, and rules Egypt as pharaoh, Julius now turns his eye to Greek mythology. The fourth book in the Julius saga, this one repeats much of the humor of the previous editions. That is not always a bad thing as the crew and their interactions, coupled with the fantastic artwork, are what makes this series. The plot is a bit thin this time around and there is not a great deal of character development with the exception of some exploration of the relationship between Julius and his brother Brutus. As others have mentioned, it pulls just enough mythology/history into it to make it more than slapstick. Not the strongest book in the set but enjoyable. Enough signs that Julius is not done with his world travels as well. ( )

Julius Zebra: Grapple with the Greeks is a humorous introduction to classical Greek myths that would appeal to elementary school aged kids.

The story folllows the heroic but often clueless Julius Zebra on an adventure where he meets several figures in Greek mythology, including King Midas, Hades, etc. Heracles tricks Julius and his crew into attempting to steal a golden apple. Heracles was the most objectionable part of the book as he had no redeeming value and was taking advantage of animals. He was the reason for the initial quest, but I felt he was more boorish than funny. ( )

I enjoyed sharing this with my kiddo. He read a previous Julius Zebra and was excited to see this book arrive. The plot is similar to other Julius Zebra books, which is nice for younger readers who need/like predicability. In this book, Julius explores Greek history. The black and white illustrations scattered throughout the book add levity and fun. This is also nice for helping to build reading stamina with younger/newer chapter book readers. Julius is his comical self as the same in other books in the series. ( )

This is the second book I've read in the Julius Zebra series (the first was Julius Zebra Entangled with the Egyptians) and I liked this one a bit better, though both were interesting. I think it's a great way to start introducing young readers to different mythologies. The characters are imbued with characteristics that fit their nature in the myths and many different stories from the mythologies are woven into the tale. ( )