Odysseus

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Tricia Melgaard, Centennial Middle School, Broken Arrow, OK -- School Library Journal, 7/4/2008

Odysseus (unabr.). 4 CDs. 4:30 hrs. Full Cast Audio (fullcastaudio.com). 2008. ISBN 978-1-934180-17-4. $38.

Gr 4-8–Geraldine McCaughrean’s retelling (Cricket Books, 2004) of Homer’s epic made the tale accessible to young people, and this fine full-cast audio production takes it a step further. Odysseus, the hero of conquered Troy, leaves for his home with 600 men and 12 ships. His long-suffering wife Penelope and young son wait faithfully for his return, but many are whispering that Odysseus is dead and the Queen should choose a new husband to rule. While crossing the vast sea, Odysseus and his men come face to face with Polyphemus, son of Poseidon and a Cyclops to boot. During their escape, Odysseus blinds Polythemus and enrages Poseidon, god of the sea—not a good idea when you’re trying to get home by ship. Poseidon takes his revenge and Odysseus and crew face sirens, enchantresses, and a trip through Hades. McCaughrean’s language is lyrical and the action and suspense will fascinate young listeners. Narrator Cynthia Bishop establishes an exciting pace, and the full-cast voicing makes the many characters easily recognizable to listeners. A solid choice for school and public libraries.