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Cover of Book Review The Odyssey A Graphic Novel

Book Review The Odyssey A Graphic Novel

by Gareth Hinds

Book Details

Publisher:Candlewick Press
Published:2010-10-12
Pages:258
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0763642681

Reading Info

Age Range:3-7

About This Book

With bold imagery and an ear tuned to the music of Homer’s epic poem, Gareth Hinds reinterprets the ancient classic as it’s never been told before. "Gareth Hinds brings The Odyssey to life in a masterful blend of art and storytelling. Vivid and exciting, this graphic novel is a worthy new interpretation of Homer’s epic."β€”Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series Fresh from his triumphs in the Trojan War, Odysseus, King of Ithaca, wants nothing more than to return home to h

Our Review

This graphic novel adaptation brings Homer's epic poem to vibrant life through stunning artwork and accessible storytelling, making the ancient Greek classic approachable for young readers. The tale follows King Odysseus on his perilous journey home from the Trojan War, filled with mythical creatures, divine interventions, and heroic challenges that will capture children's imaginations. The visual format transforms complex mythological elements into clear, engaging scenes that help children understand this foundational story from world literature. Parents seeking to introduce classical mythology will find this version bridges the gap between picture books and more advanced texts.

What distinguishes this adaptation is how effectively it balances faithfulness to the original epic with visual storytelling techniques that support comprehension. The bold illustrations and panel sequencing help children follow Odysseus's encounters with Cyclops, sirens, and other mythological figures while maintaining the story's dramatic tension. This graphic novel format particularly benefits reluctant readers and visual learners who might struggle with traditional text versions of classical literature. It serves as an excellent gateway to discussing themes of perseverance, cleverness, and homecoming that resonate across generations.

Themes

Young Adult Fiction

Subjects

Young Adult Fiction