The Odyssey (Puffin Classics)

Liked the book

This abridged version of the Odyssey was absolutely wonderful. I would read aloud portions to my kids, who at the age of 10 and 12, would press me to do "just one more chapter." The pictures are well done. It also demonstrated great opportunities to discuss ancient cultures, mythology, etc. You will want a copy of this on your children's bookshelf.

Book was as described.

Were it not for the naked women that occasionally appear, i would call this a children's book. But it is not. More like adolescence or early adult.In all respects well illustrated, this redacted Odyssey leaves you with the impression that Odysseus and crew were nothing if not a shipload of screw-ups, buying into trouble at every opportunity. I suspect that is a simplification, but it fits well with the classical theme of Hubris, and the folly of human nature. If you have no time to struggle through the original, this is a good alternative.

This is a great translation of the Odyssey for students to explore the motifs, poetic language and exciting story of the Odyssey. It is not written in verse but the author weaves metaphor, simile, recurring poetic motifs throughout the story. It changes the original flow of chapters to make it more followable for the student. It is a satisfying version to read in all aspects.

This is a great introduction to the ultimate epic of western culture. You can read it to elementary aged children, or have older children read it alone. Unlike Homer's version, this one runs chronologically, so it's easier for younger children to follow the story line. The language is easy to understand, but still beautiful and complex. The illustrations are gorgeous and will draw the whole family into the story. Both of my children are in high school and have read the real thing, but both still look back fondly on this book and say it helped them tremendously when they were ready to tackle the real thing.

I bought this to read to my six year old grandson, from the promotion on Amazon I thought it would have some illustrations to help make it interesting. I think the stories were a little advanced for him maybe better for a 12 year old. I read one like this at 12 and loved the stories. Good value for money if selected for the right age group.

Needs more of the first seven chapters of Homers original, otherwise a nice summary of the tale