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Contemporary fiction, classical non-fiction, feminist retellings, and inspired stories that would make for an interesting read now that you're obsessed with The Odyssey post-movie!
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Circe by Madeline Miller is a reimagining of the myth of Circe, the enchantress from Homer's Odyssey. The novel explores her transformation from a nymph to a powerful witch, delving into themes of identity, power, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of ancient Greek mythology, it portrays her encounters with gods, monsters, and mortals.
From the bestselling author of Emperor of Rome and SPQR "The rock star scholar of Ancient Rome" – Financial Times "The reigning Queen of Classics" – Spectator What's exciting about a piece of bread 4,000 years old? Or some pots of paint abandoned in the eruption at Pompeii? Why should we be bothered with the distant past anyway? What's the point? The life, art, and literature of ancient Greece and Rome have something to offer everyone. They are not the property of wealthy white men only. They make us wonder how to make sense of people who lived long ago (from angry landlords to giggling senators) and to think harder about our own world, to look at it differently. In Talking Classics, Mary Beard points to the surprising...
The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker reimagines the Trojan War from the perspective of Briseis, a queen who becomes a slave to Achilles. It explores the lives and voices of the women hidden behind the epic tales of heroism and conflict, offering a poignant and humanised view of their struggles and resilience.
The exhilarating follow-up to Pat Barker's The Women of Troy and The Silence of the Girls. After ten blood-filled years, the war is over. Troy lies in smoking ruins as the victorious Greeks fill their ships with the spoils of battle. Alongside the treasures looted are the many Trojan women captured by the Greeks—among them the legendary prophetess Cassandra and her watchful maid, Ritsa. Enslaved as a concubine—war-wife—to King Agamemnon, Cassandra is plagued by visions of his death—and her own—while Ritsa is forced to bear witness to both Cassandra's frenzies and the horrors to come. Meanwhile, awaiting the fleet's return is Queen Clytemnestra, vengeful wife of Agamemnon. Heart-shattered by her husband's choice to sacrifice their eldest daughter to the gods in exchange for a fair wind to Troy,...
The Women of Troy by Pat Barker revisits the aftermath of the fall of Troy, focusing on the fates and resilience of the captive women. It delves into their struggle for survival and dignity while exploring themes of power, loss, and the human cost of war.
Confronting the Classics by Professor Mary Beard offers an enlightening journey through the ancient world, intertwining detailed knowledge with engaging storytelling. Professor Beard examines key figures, events, and texts from classical antiquity, providing fresh perspectives on ancient Rome and Greece. The book serves as both a critical analysis and a captivating guide, catering to both seasoned historians and those newly interested in classical studies.
Lore Olympus: Volume One by Rachel Smythe reimagines the story of Hades and Persephone in a modern, vibrant setting that blends contemporary life with Greek mythology. The graphic novel explores themes of love, power, and identity through stunning artwork and compelling characters, revealing the dynamics of gods and mortals in a stylishly vivid way. It's a fresh take on a classic myth, filled with romance, drama, and intrigue.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller reimagines the Greek myth of Achilles through the eyes of his companion Patroclus. Set against the backdrop of the Trojan War, this beautifully written novel explores themes of friendship, love, and destiny. It's a poignant and gripping retelling that brings new life to classic mythology.
A powerful, electric reclaiming of the most famed, white-washed woman in Greek mythology. Blessed by the gods with unparalleled beauty, Andromeda lives a life of ease within her Aethiopian palace walls. Content with her sanctuary, the young princess has no concerns other than the royal expectations her parents have for her - until a single, fateful proclamation changes everything. When the queen defies the gods with a blasphemous claim, Poseidon, fearsome God of the Seas, delivers a deadly ultimatum that puts the queen's life in Andromeda's hands. Poseidon sends his loyal servant, the shape-shifting Ceto, to seal the princess's fate. But Ceto is not just a servant. With a sharp tongue and hardened heart, she has little interest in the princess's appearance - and even less in the...
Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief follows the adventures of Percy Jackson, a young boy who discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. As Percy learns about his heritage, he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods by recovering a stolen lightning bolt. Along the way, he encounters mythical creatures and forms lasting friendships.
Discover the full story of the sorceress Medea, one of the most reviled and maligned women of Greek antiquity, in this “haunting, deeply moving” (Claire Legrand, New York Times bestselling author) debut in the tradition of Circe, Elektra, and Stone Blind. Among the women of Greek mythology, the witch Medea may be the most despised. Known for the brutal act of killing her own children to exact vengeance on her deceitful husband, Jason, the leader of the Argonauts, Medea has carved out a singularly infamous niche in our histories. But what if that isn’t the full story? The daughter of a sea nymph and the granddaughter of a Titan, Medea is a paradox. She is at once rendered compelling by virtue of the divinity that flows through her...
The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood reimagines the story of Penelope, wife of Odysseus, from her own perspective. Set during and after the events of Homer’s epic, it explores her experiences and challenges, offering a fresh take on her character and the timeless tale of fidelity, power, and deception. Historical references blend with myth in this captivating narrative.
A dark and epic feminist retelling that boldly reclaims the myth of the most formidable and feared witch in Ancient Greece. Medea longs for a different life. Since childhood, she has been separated from her sister, shunned by her mother, and persecuted and tormented by her brother and father. All because of a unique and dangerous gift—witchcraft. But when a dashing young hero, Jason, arrives to claim the famed Golden Fleece that her father protects, Medea sees her opportunity to escape. Her offer to help Jason overcome the trials set by her father sets in motion a journey that will test every ounce of her strength, magic and loyalty; a journey that will see her battle monsters, dethrone kings and fall in love. But when faced with the...
A daughter pulled between two worlds and a mother willing to destroy both to protect her... Gods and men wage their petty wars, but it is the women of spring who will have the last word. Demeter - a goddess of life, living half of one. Demeter did not always live in fear. Once, she loved the world and the humans who inhabited it. After an act of devastating violence, though, she hides herself away among the grasses and wildflowers. Her only solace is her daughter... Before she was Persephone, she was Core. Core is as bright as summer and devoted to her mother, even during their millennia in exile from Olympus. But she craves freedom. Naive and determined, she secretly builds a life of her own -...
She's a queen, a witch, and a murderer. But she'll do anything to protect her children... From an award-winning author comes a story of feminist revenge, perfect for readers of Madeleine Miller and Natalie Haynes. All murders must be avenged. While the rest of Greece mourns for the war that has taken their husbands away, Clytemnestra fears the day it will bring Agamemnon back. When her husband willingly sacrifices their eldest daughter to appease the gods, Clytemnestra vows to do whatever it takes to protect her remaining children. But history turns strong women into monsters, and in saving her family, she risks losing them altogether and becoming the most hated woman in Greece...
Medusa's Sisters by Lauren J.A. Bear offers a fresh perspective on Greek mythology by delving into the untold stories of Medusa's lesser-known sisters. This Sci-Fi & Fantasy novel explores their lives, challenges, and relationships, shedding light on their dynamic, complex personalities while expanding on their mythical heritage. Through captivating storytelling, it reimagines the famous mythology with a new depth and understanding.
Galatea by Madeline Miller reimagines the classic myth of Pygmalion and Galatea. The story explores the life of Galatea, a statue brought to life by a sculptor's wish, as she struggles with autonomy in a world where she is expected to be a mere possession. Through a rich narrative, the book examines themes of freedom, identity, and the desire for self-determination.
The Greeks by Professor Roderick Beaton delves into the rich and complex history of the Greek people, tracing their journey from ancient times to the present day. The author explores the cultural, political, and social evolution of the Greeks, highlighting their enduring influence on civilisation. With insights into pivotal events and figures, this book offers a comprehensive overview of the contributions that have shaped modern Greece and its role in the world.
Ithaca Forever by Luigi Malerba is a captivating reimagining of Odysseus's return to Ithaca. The book delves into his internal struggles, puzzling over whether to reclaim his throne or pursue a life of adventure. It elegantly blends mythology, introspection, and a fresh perspective on the timeless Odyssean themes.
From actor and writer Felicia Day, a sapphic graphic novel about the forgotten sister of Helen of Troy, for fans of Lore Olympus and Girl Goddess Queen. Helen. Clytemnestra. Timandra. Three famous sisters and one shared curse – that each will betray their husband. As the youngest sister, Philonoe is desperate not to follow in their footsteps. After pleading with the gods, Philonoe is sent on a quest by Aphrodite, to retrieve three impossible objects. She's expecting battle, but instead encounters women who have already lost everything to the gods. Every step of the way she’s accompanied by Artemis, who doesn’t understand exactly why she’s so drawn to Philonoe’s quest. Will Philonoe become a victim of her own fate, or does she have the power to change it?...
The Children's Homer by Padraic Colum is a retelling of the classic stories of the Iliad and the Odyssey. It introduces young readers to the adventures of the Greek hero Odysseus, starting from the Trojan War and following his epic journey home. The narrative captures the mythical battles, the gods' involvement, and Odysseus's trials, offering an engaging exploration of these ancient tales for children.
A brand-new, foiled, clothbound edition of The Sea of Monsters with interior art - the ultimate collector's edition for all Percy Jackson fans! The son of a sea god has never looked so good! The second novel in Rick Riordan's classic Percy Jackson series, The Sea of Monsters, has been given the ultimate makeover in this deluxe, clothbound edition with a foiled cover, stained edges, a marker ribbon, ten pages of new interior illustrations, and notes from Rick. A must-have for all Percy Jackson fans and the perfect edition to beautify any book collector's shelf. Return to the World of Percy Jackson in the best-selling, new adventure featuring the original hero in Percy Jackson and the Olympians - Wrath of the Triple Goddess - out now!
Ariadne by Jennifer Saint is a captivating retelling of Greek mythology, centred on Ariadne, Princess of Crete. Living in a palace shadowed by the monstrous Minotaur, Ariadne yearns for freedom. When Theseus arrives to slay the beast, Ariadne makes a daring choice to help him, defying gods and kin alike in a bid for love and escape. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the roles of women in myth.
Some loves are meant to stay…some are meant to set you free. The Summer I Turned Pretty meets Circe in this windswept, emotional retelling of The Odyssey. A stunning story of first love, ancient echoes, and the power of rewriting your own fate. Callie Quinn has never left Catalina Island. Her world is a crumbling cliffside inn, a father who’s more prison guard than parent, and a curse she believes she’s doomed to repeat: every summer brings a boy, a spark—and then a goodbye. Until one summer everything changes. A storm. A shipwreck. A boy washed ashore. Odie is secretive, wounded, and desperate to disappear. Callie offers him shelter, a place to heal, and slowly, something more. But Odie is no ordinary castaway. He carries secrets that could...