
by Madeline Miller
Hardcover- $16.42
"A bold and subversive retelling of the goddess's story," this #1 New York Times bestseller is "both epic and intimate in its scope, ...
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The characters came alive for me. At times I envied Circe and then suddenly I’d feel sorry for her. I can easily see this as a movie.
Greek to Me by Mary Morris
I really enjoyed this book. I was also looking forward to reading it as well. I grew up loving Greek mythology, and this brought back that interest and fun. I enjoyed the history of our words base of Greek interspersed throughout the book. I enjoyed her enthusiasm about all things Greek and the history of the country. I learned so many things: Greek was originally written in all caps; the lower case letters came from the middle ages, mainly to save space. And that omicron means small o. I enjoyed her traveling adventures around Greece and learned much from those travels across the years. She discussed the Greek financial troubles and Cyprus' complicated history. Those with an interest in travel, history and yes, language and mythology will love this book.
My mother minored in ancient Greek in college (in the 40s) and we often discussed Greek history and
mythology. I look forward to sharing this book with her.
Amazing dramatization of the life of the goddess Circe, daughter of Helios and Perce. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey through the lives and adventures of Greek gods & goddesses, Titans, and Olympians. I cannot recommend this novel to everyone, but for readers with some knowledge of Greek mythology, I highly recommend it. I promise that you will not need to reference your copy of Bullfinch's Mythology because Miller has a way of weaving the characters into a very readable tale.
Circe, Marilyn Miller, author; Perdita Weeks, narrator
In this re-imagined story of the Greek goddess Circe, Marilyn Miller has done a wonderful job of bringing her to life. The narrator is superb, as she uses different voices and stress points to make each character unique. I studied Greek mythology in College, many years ago, and her presentation evoked many pleasant memories for me. I really enjoyed listening to it and remembering the history it portrayed of Troy and Sparta, the Titans and the Olympians. I remembered and re-imagined with her, all of the heroes, heroines, and villains, that I had once loved reading about. Although she was considered a minor goddess, Circe’s interactions with Odysseus, Athena, Daedalus, Prometheus, Hermes, Zeus, the Cyclops, Trident, Helios, Scylla, Penelope, the Sirens, and many more, were fascinating.
The relationship between the gods, goddesses and mortals was very creative, as was her handling of mysterious events during that time. Her interpretation of their bitterness and vengeful behavior was illuminating. People in modern times are sometimes as arrogant and petty, vindictive and unforgiving toward each other. The pride and arrogance sometimes resulted in remorse but in most cases the behavior simply proved how unrewarding and detrimental it could be. It was difficult to trust mortals or the gods.
The gods had no interest in mortals other than to use them as playthings, to be toyed with and then disposed of, but in some rare cases, some of the gods were kinder. To most, humans held no real value, though. The lesser gods, had less power and they had to be more clever or use magic and witchcraft to better their superiors who even chose to punish them. Imagine a punishment that lasted into eternity…the torture, the torment, the hopelessness. gods and goddesses were immortal and simply existed to please themselves. Any who defied or broke the rules paid dearly.
If you loved the Greek classics, you will love Miller’s reinterpretation of Circe.
A book I normally wouldn’t have picked on my own but so glad I read!
For those who have wanted to read Homer’s Odyssey, this book is a welcoming introduction to Greek mythology from a female perspective. Brilliantly written for anyone interested in the classics.
"It was so simple. If you want it, I will do it. If it would make you happy, I will go with you. Is there a moment that a heart cracks?" Madeline Miller, Circe #love
This master storyteller has won me over. I'm in love with her version of Greek mythology stories told in this perspective. What a gift she has. Thanks to her for sharing it along with her knowledge of the classics. This my 2nd book by her and so was worth the wait. I'm so amazed and wishing on stars that someone makes movies of her books
3.5/5 stars. Interesting novel retelling mythology stories with Circe as the main character. Circe can be a frustrating character in the beginning for her inability to see the world/characters accurately; however, as the story progresses she becomes more aware and gives wonderful insight. Quick and easy read.
I loved reading a more intimate and personal portrayal of some of the Greek tales I've enjoyed.
This is the story of a woman finding her power and her voice. She starts out unable to say what she thinks and by the end of the book, she’s able to live life on her terms and says what she thinks and feels. -From a Bookriot author interview
If you love greek gods you will love this book. It takes classic myths and weaves them into a powerful narrative. It could almost be "historical fiction" if greek gods were real. Feminist and strong, but does contain a rape scene for those people who avoid triggers.
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