THE ODYSSEY by Gareth Hinds

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hinds, Gareth. 2010. THE ODYSSEY. Based on Homer's epic poem. Massachusetts: Candlewick Press. ISBN 978076364268

SUMMARY
Hinds brings to life this young adult novel of Homer’s original epic poem. Odyssey, wants to return home to Ithaca after battling the Trojan War and into the arms of his wife, Penelope from his triumphs of the Trojan war cannot because he has angered the gods of the sea. Poseidon, god of the sea blows Odyssey off course for many years into the violent storms of the sea. Odyssey then battles sea creatures, monsters, supernatural sirens and sorceresses only to come home and fight for his throne and his beloved wife Penelope. While stranded Odysseys is unaware of those trying to take away his wife and kingdom. This is an exciting action packed story of good verses evil.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Hinds watercolor choices brings to life this story that is normally difficult for children to understand. His watercolors bring out the imagination of a child and leaves nothing hanging. His details are amazing and makes the reader want more. Since children are more inclined to read stories that have illustrations with bright colors they will find Gareth Hinds book hard to put down. Homer’s version is packed with action and so Hinds brings that action to life with its stunning water scenes. A child will know that this is a tale of love, bravery and adventure. Children will get lost in the plot of this story because of its dialogue which will make each page fly by quickly as it did while reading it. Cannot wait to read it to my students! I love how he gives a modern twist with words and still offers another feeling of place and time. Another very important theme in this story is of perseverance, especially in today’s life with the many demands upon children. They will be able to relate when confronted with obstacles in their lives.


AWARDS and REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
*Junior Library Guild Selection

*An American Library Association Great Graphic Novel for Teens

*Best-of 2010 lists including Booklist, Kirkus, Roger Sutton, Monica Edinger, and by many libraries.

*The Odyssey has received four starred reviews, from Booklist, The Horn Book, Kirkus, and BCCB.

*The Horn Book- A timeless long-ago past comes alive in these images of gods and heroes, monsters  and enchantresses

*Publisher's Weekly-Hinds has created a work that both honors the epic's long tradition and helps readers see these characters in a new light.

*School Library Journal-Hinds’s work will be a welcome addition for fans of Homer’s original work and for newcomers to this classic story. –Andrea Lipinski, New York Public Library.


CONNECTIONS
* Watercolor their own creatures, name them and write a short story about their own creation.

* Using web 2.0 tools create a new creature and present to class.

* Research other types of creatures such as: Loch ness monster.