This is the right way to do a retelling: it is presented as an actual narrative, not an encyclopedia. Yet it doesn't try to re-interpret or change the source material. I liked Gaiman's retelling of the Norse myths for the same reasons.

In addition, Fry also sometimes steps away from the narrative to provide information or context for the reader - historical information, other interpretations or versions of the events, et cetera. He compellingly presents the narrative - but doesn't pretend his is the only valid interpretation.