Mythic Monday: When a Book is Not a Book

BECOMING HERCULES is not a book. Not yet. But read on...

Hello, new subscribers! Welcome to the Mythoversal Newsletter.

A new episode of Becoming Hercules drops today.

No, it’s still not a book.

I’m used to writing books. My friends and readers are used to reading books. But Becoming Hercules is not a book, which makes this an adjustment for all of us. I’ve been tinkering with the presentation, and readers have been asking questions. Here are some of the conversations we’ve had since the project went live on the Kindle Vella platform.

“Is it a graphic novel?”

Sadly, no. I can’t draw well enough for that and don’t have an illustrator attached to the project.

“So it’s just a regular book series then?”

Again, not quite. It’s a serial, which means I’m publishing it in short episodes like a TV series or podcast. Except that it’s text.

“And it’s all about Hercules? I ask because I’ve read a few episodes and Hercules hasn’t shown up yet.”

Keep reading.

“But if it’s on Amazon, why can’t I buy it as a book?”

You can’t yet, but soon. Once there are enough episodes to make a book, and once Amazon has had their 30 days of exclusivity with the series, it can be published as a book.

So that’s the plan. But if you want a sneak peek, and you’re willing to try the serial experience that Amazon has put together, I’d be happy for you to join me on Kindle Vella.

—Greg R. Fishbone, Author of Disrupted Mythology

Mythoversal is dedicated to broadening representation in classical tales by amplifying historically marginalized identities and restoring traditions erased by centuries of gatekeeping.

Our entry point to Mythoversal is the multicultural city of Thebes, where we disrupt and deconstruct Greek, Hellenic, Roman, and Byzantine sources to create a mythic environment that's inclusive, inviting, and relevant. This setting provides a window into the past and a mirror for today.

If you’re looking to jump into reading serial fiction, here are some other series you may enjoy and a second bonus batch to check out after those.