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I don't always get on with non fiction — I sometimes struggle with a more formal or academic writing style — but Pandora's Jar is an incredibly readable book that was incredibly insightful and eye opening.

Like lots of kids, I was obsessed with Greek mythology — I got every book of myths from the library that I could — but I never really re-examined it as an adult. Pandora's Jar is a perfect book for someone in my position — wanting to know the actual stories, but also examining the characters in an insightful way.

The book features ten women from Greek mythology, some who were very familiar and some who I didn't know well at all. Haynes dedicates about 30 pages to each woman, explaining their tale and the social context, as well as diving into what such a character may have been thinking or feeling and her motivations. Naturally, the most interesting women features are villainous women like Medea and tragic figures like Jocasta. There is so much to be gleaned from these characters and Haynes provides a jumping off point.

I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in Greek mythology — whether it was a childhood interest or something read as an adult — and feminist readings of classic texts. I'm looking forward to not only picking up more of Haynes books, but more Greek mythology in general.

Content warnings: discussions of rape, sexual assault, enslavement; child murder; murder