Author Julius Lester is better know for his adaptations of Afro-American folklore, but luckily for us he made this sally into Greco-Roman mythology. As the title promises, this book explores romantic relationships through the myth of Cupid and Psyche. The character of Cupid is particularly well-imagined. He grows from an immature boy that is bowled over by Psyche’s beauty into an emotionally mature young man that understands that true love is a partnership that inspires you to be your best self.

What makes this book outstanding, though, is the narrator. Julius Lester’s background as a folklorist lends his text a distinct rhythm and feel. The book’s unnamed story-teller is the true main character of the book. His voice is the voice of a Black grandfather from the Mississippi delta, and his frequent detours into the lives and myths of minor characters (and his own interesting past) are delightful. I strongly recommend reading it out loud, or listening to the audiobook.

The story-teller mingles ancient Greek myth with features of traditional Southern African American folklore. Helios becomes Brother Sun, Selene is Sister Moon, and all the Winds play a part in the story. There are tall-tale features on every page, such as Psyche’s beauty driving her kingdom’s economy into a decline every time she goes out on a walk. The result is fun, funny, and suits both the folklore tone and the epic source material.

Readers should be aware that there is some language in this book. One character calls Venus a b*tch for good reasons. More difficultly, the narrator describes Cupid as retarded in his emotional growth. The term is not used as a slur, but it still jars. That said, this is a fabulous version of Cupid and Psyche. It’s a prefect blend of old and new. – Krishni Burns