Rosemary Sutcliff's The Wanderings of Odysseus is lauded for its vivid storytelling and faithful adaptation of Homer's epic. Readers praise its accessible language and rich illustrations, making it engaging for younger audiences. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and desire more depth in character development. Overall, a commendable retelling.

Readers who cherish mythological adventures and classical tales will savor The Wanderings of Odysseus by Rosemary Sutcliff. Enthusiasts of Homer's The Odyssey or Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series will find this retelling captivating, blending epic heroism with accessible storytelling. Ideal for fans of ancient epics and rich narratives.

The Wanderings of Odysseus by Rosemary Sutcliff, a retelling of Homer’s Odyssey for younger readers, follows the hero Odysseus as he embarks on a perilous journey to return home after the Trojan War, encountering numerous obstacles including mythical creatures and divine interventions, while his wife Penelope and son Telemachus face suitors vying for his throne.

Various locales around Greece / Ancient mythological era

Adventurous / Fantastical / Mysterious / Emotional / Suspenseful

- The Wanderings of Odysseus by Rosemary Sutcliff is a retelling of Homer's Odyssey, offering a vivid portrayal of ancient Greek mythology adapted for younger audiences, while maintaining the poetic spirit of the original epic. 
- Rosemary Sutcliff, known for her detailed historical novels, often included maps and illustrations in her works to enhance the reader's understanding of the geographical and cultural context, a feature present in The Wanderings of Odysseus illustrated by Alan Lee.
- The book is celebrated for its rich language and vivid descriptions, which is a testament to Sutcliff's ability to animate classical literature in a way accessible to modern readers while retaining the allure and complexity of the original tale.

**Odysseus**  
The king of Ithaca known for his intelligence and resourcefulness, he devises the Wooden Horse scheme during the Trojan War and faces numerous challenges in his journey to return home.

**Telemachus**  
The son of Odysseus and Penelope, who begins as a timid youth and matures while seeking his father's whereabouts and facing the suitors at home.

**Penelope**  
The devoted wife of Odysseus, who remains faithful to him throughout his long absence, using her intelligence to fend off suitors.

**Athene**  
The goddess of war and wisdom who supports Odysseus, aiding him through his journey with advice and intervention at critical moments.

**Calypso**  
A nymph who lives on a remote island, she keeps Odysseus with her for several years and must eventually let him go due to a command from the gods.

**Alcinous and Arete**  
The king and queen of Phaecia who provide hospitality to Odysseus and help him return home.

**Circe**  
An enchantress with the power to transform men into animals, who offers Odysseus and his men hospitality once he proves himself worthy.

**The Cyclops (Polyphemus)**  
A one-eyed giant and son of Poseidon who captures Odysseus and his men, only to be outsmarted by them in their escape.

**Eurycleia**  
An elderly enslaved woman in Odysseus’s household who remains loyal to him and recognizes him despite his disguise.

**Eumaeus and Philoetius**  
Loyal enslaved people in Odysseus’s household, a swineherd and cowherd, who assist in dealing with the suitors.

**The Suitors**  
The group of men courting Penelope during Odysseus's absence; they disrupt Odysseus’s home and resources.

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