Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature)
As they did in their last collaboration, Black Ships Before Troy, this team has created a sumptuous version of the Odyssey. The story is all there in 100 plus pages, with illustrations on nearly every one. Readers follow Odysseus as he heads back to Ithaca and marvel at his escape from the Cyclops, Circe, and Calypso. Then when he finally returns home, he must slay his wife's suitors and prove that he really is her long awaited husband. It is a story that has thrilled thousands for many generations. It lacks nothing and is filled with intrigue, enchantment, the follies and nobility of gods, goddess, and mere mortals, and an enduring love for ones home and family. The soft watercolor illustrations bring the people and forces that stood in Odysseus' path to light and enhance the telling of the story. Added features include a pronunciation guide and a map of Odysseus' travels. 1996, Delacorte, $22.50. Ages 10 up.

I bought this because it was illustrated by Alan Lee and I had heard good things of Rosemary Sutcliff. It was thoroughly enjoyable. Especially after watching the movie, "Troy". The pictures alone would make it worth reading, since Alan Lee was so involved in the LOTR trilogy. The story was captivating, and fun to make sense of the many myths and stories I've read. ( )