Myth of the 21st century

In this colourful anthology, 14 New Zealand writers explore what myth means to them. Patricia Grace rewrites the Maori legend of the woman who controls the tides. Martin Edmond creates a dangerous myth for the Jenolan caves in New South Wales, while Mike Johnson spins a lush version of the story of Cupid and Psyche. London-based writer Anthony McCarten tells his story in reverse; Jack Ross brings to life a selkie legend. Maxine Alterio writes a contemporary Aztec myth; and poet Karlo Mila offers a stunning Tongan nightmare. Tracey Slaughter gives us a disconcerting take on three very contemporary Fates, while Viv Plumb makes old fables uncomfortably new. Charlotte Grimshaw pairs a warrior with his modern twin; Tina Shaw's feral children kill and eat an albatross; Aaron Taouma tells the story of Uncle Sione, an urban holy fool; and Judith White spins a mythic yarn about a doomed love affair. And finally, Tim Corballis explores the very idea of myth itself.