The Odyssey

By Homer and Geraldine McCaughrean

Book Overview

Embark on one of the greatest adventures ever told, the epic journey of Odysseus, hero of Ancient Greece. . .

After ten years of war, Odysseus turns his back on Troy and sets sail for home. But his voyage takes another ten years and he must face many dangers--Polyphemus the greedy one-eyed giant, Scylla the six-headed sea monster and even the wrath of the gods themselves--before he is reunited with his wife and son.

Brilliantly retold by award-winning author, Geraldine McCaughrean, this accessible adaptation brings Homer's timeless tale to life with clear, engaging language and fast-paced storytelling.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0140383093
• ISBN13: 9780140383096
• Release Date: December 1997
• Publisher: Puffin Books
• Length: 112 Pages
• Weight: 0.59 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.0" x 7.0"
• Age Range: 10 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 5 and higher

Customer Reviews

Imagery, Simile, Metaphor, Hyperbole Galore

The disclosure of the publisher "Puffin" rightly gives the fact that this is a child's version away. Yet, the prose of this text is not condescending. I love the use of imagery, similes, metaphor and hyperbole; this read is a treat for all ages, as it inspires the imagination in ways the original text may not for lack of so much detail. I enjoy reading the different versions of they Odyssey- analyzing the differences and appreciating the variety of interpretations is an exercise in and of itself.

The Odyssey review

this book was for a 11year old girl who was doing a school summer project. She loved the book, the simplicity of the story and had her project completed in two days

All the Hits

For young readers not yet ready to tackle Homer in translation this prose version is a superb introduction to the epic's most stirring episodes. McCaughrean writes in an alliterative prose which honors the poetry of the original. She pumps new life into the tangle with the Cyclops, the lure of the Sirens, and the final smackdown on Ithaca when a weathered Odysseus teaches the loutish suitors a thing or two. Seventh graders here have really warmed to this commendable retelling. Our ancient history curriuculum has certainly benefitted from its inclusion.