I received a sample for this review/feature. Opinions expressed are my own.
From an exciting new voice in middle grade literature comes a re-imagination of The Odyssey with Argos The Story of Odysseus as Told by His Loyal Dog written by Ralph Hardy. A thrilling tale of loyalty, determination and adventure.
For twenty years, the great hero Odysseus struggles to return to Ithaka. After ten years beneath the walls of Troy, he begins the long journey back home. He defeats monsters. He outsmarts the Cyclops. He battles the gods. He does whatever it takes to reunite with his family.
And what of that family?his devoted wife, Penelope; his young son, Telemachos; his dog, Argos? For those twenty years, they wait, unsure whether they will ever see Odysseus again. But Argos has found a way to track his master. Any animal who sets foot or wing on Ithaka brings him news of Odysseus’s voyage?and what a voyage it is!
These tales bring hope that one day his master will return. Meanwhile, Argos watches over his master’s family and protects them from the dangers that surround a throne without its king. This rousing story of devotion and determination is an original take on one of the most beloved myths of all time.
Listed for ages 8 to 12 I let Big Sis sit this book out only because we have been too busy for me to read it to her and she is only 7 which is a little young for this lengthy book. I did in fact read it and I was really surprised how much I enjoyed this book. I have always loved mythology and this book is a completely fresh take off The Odyssey. Odysseus has defeated Troy and is on his way home but his journey is a long and treacherous one. During his trip home we follow Argos his loyal dog. Argos takes care of Penelope his master’s wife and their son Telemachos. Argos follows Odysseus’s journey by listening to the stories of animals that see him on his journey. It may seem a little different but that is part of what makes this book so great. Kids enjoy reading about loyal dogs and in this tale you really get into the mind of a dog whom has the highest level of love for his master.? A TRUE PAGE TURNER! I planned on reading this book in my spare time but instead read it one day because it was so good and I could not put it down. A fabulous read for those that like mythology.
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