Persian Mythology

An unforgettable collection of twenty dramatic tales of Persian deities and heroes, both mortal and immortal, fighting in the name of goodness, chaos, beauty, love, and evil. You’ve heard of mythological characters like Theseus, Medusa, and Thor, but have you heard about Anahita, Jamshid, and Rostam? In this engrossing anthology of twenty stories, middle grade readers will be introduced to the strongest heroes, most legendary creatures, and most vicious demons of Persian mythology. From Atar, the god of fire, going head-to-head with the three-headed demon-dragon Azhi Dahaka, to Anahita, the goddess of war and water, rescuing mortals from monstrous divs, Persian Mythology retells some of the most intense sagas that served as the foundation of early Persian religion, passed down from one generation to the next in the form of oral traditions. Persia is the area in West Asia known today as modern Iran. Author Ryan Bani Tahmaseb and award-winning illustrator Reza Dalvand celebrate the rich history and incredible tradition of Persian storytelling in this epic collection.

Ryan Bani Tahmaseb is an author, educator, and avowed Persian mythology superfan. His debut picture book, Rostam’s Picture-Day Pusteen, based on his father’s experience as a young Iranian-American immigrant, was published by Charlesbridge. His first professional book for educators,The 21st Century School Library, which details how teachers and administrators can better utilize their school library and librarian, was published in 2022 by John Catt Educational. His writing has also appeared in publications such as Education Week and the Carolina Quarterly. He lives in York, ME with his wife and two young children. Reza Dalvand is an internationally recognized, award-winning creator of more than thirty books for readers of all ages. Books he has written and/or illustrated include What Could That Be?, Mrs. Bibi’s Elephant, Ace, and I Have the Right. His work has been published into over fifteen languages worldwide, and he has exhibited twice at Bologna Children’s Book Fair and received the Grand Prize from the Oshima Picture Book Museum in Japan, among others. A graduate of Isfahan Art University, Reza also holds a Masters in Illustration from Tehran University, where he was a professor while serving as art director for hundreds of children’s books. Born and raised in Iran, Reza now lives in the United States. Learn more at RezaDalvand.com or on social media @_rezadalvand_.

Introduction Ahura Mazda and the Creation of the World The First Humans Mount Alborz and the Simurgh Ahriman and His Terrible Creatures The First Royal Family The Chinvat Bridge Anahita  Atar and Mithra Tishtrya Verethragna Vayu Tahmuras Jamshid Zahak Fereydun Zal  Rudabeh Rostam Rostam Versus Sohrab The End (of the World) Resources Acknowledgments