Book Summary

In “Great Goddesses: Life Lessons from Myths and Monsters” (2019), Nikita Gill explores mythology through a feminist lens, delving into the lives of the goddesses, nymphs, monsters, and women of ancient lore. She beautifully retells the Greek myths and masterfully reframes the narratives, weaving together a tapestry of empowering tales that inspire and captivate. The book is divided into six parts, each focusing on different themes and figures from mythology. Gill gives voice to the silenced and the forgotten, the maligned and the monstrous, injecting new life into these classic tales. From Hera, the scorned wife of Zeus, to Medusa, the snake-haired gorgon, to Persephone, the queen of the underworld, Gill presents these women as individuals with agency and depth, a far cry from their often one-dimensional portrayals in traditional mythology. Gill’s poetry and prose are lush and evocative, filled with stark images and powerful emotions. Each poem is a love letter to womanhood, a celebration of strength, and a critique of the patriarchal society. This is not just a book of myth retellings but a testament to the enduring power and relevance of these ancient stories.

Author Intro

Nikita Gill

Nikita Gill is an acclaimed British-Indian writer and poet based in the south of England. With a massive social media following, she is a phenomenon in modern poetry, known for her feminist themes, impactful prose, and an ability to resonate with the millennial generation. Gill’s work centers on self-love, empowerment, mythological retellings, and commentary on societal expectations. Her writing is characterized by her profound emotional depth and insightful exploration of the human condition. She was nominated for Shorty Award for Best in Literature in 2017, signaling her growing influence in the literary world.

Book Reviews

Nikita Gill’s “Great Goddesses” is a powerful and transformative collection of stories and poems. With her profound empathy and incisive critique, she peels away the layers of myth to reveal the hearts of the goddesses within. These are the women we thought we knew, brought to life in a new and stunning light. An absolute must-read for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to change the world.

Nikita Gill’s work in “Great Goddesses” is nothing short of breathtaking. She manages to balance the profound with the personal, presenting the reader with a deeply insightful exploration of the feminine divine. Each story is beautifully crafted, filled with passion, strength, and raw emotion. This book is a testament to the transformative power of women, both mortal and divine.

“Great Goddesses” is a lyrical triumph. Gill’s retellings are not just about giving voice to the voiceless; they’re about challenging the traditional narratives and offering a fresh, feminist perspective. She fills these age-old tales with depth and complexity, creating goddesses who are not just divine beings but real women with hopes, fears, dreams, and disappointments. A poignant and profound collection that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.

Nikita Gill’s “Great Goddesses” is a radiant exploration of mythology and womanhood. Gill shines a light on the untold stories of the goddesses, the nymphs, the monsters—adding depth and agency to these figures. Her lyrical prose and evocative imagery transport readers into the world of myths and legends, making them feel as though they are walking among the gods themselves. This book is a beautiful affirmation of the enduring strength and resilience of women.

Best Lines

  • “You cannot keep me from the wild that calls to me, promising to love me in ways I never dreamed of.”
  • “You cannot tell me I am not a warrior when I have already gone to war with myself.”
  • “We women have been swallowing the chaos of men for far too long.”
  • “You are not a monster. You are a god. You are not a god. You are a monster. You are both, and that is okay.”

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