About the Author

Jane Yolen is one of the acknowledged masters of fantasy today. She is the author of more than one hundred books for children and adults. She has won the Nebula prize, the World Fantasy Award, the Christopher Medal and the Golden Kite Award. Robert J. Harris was born and raised in Scotland. He studied Greek and Latin at university and has had a varied career. He designed the best-selling fantasy board game Talisman and is the author of numerous short stories.

Reviews

"Yolen and Harris open a promising series with this tale of the teenage Odysseus encountering storms, pirates, creatures both natural and supernatural -- and a wise, practical young woman to take some of the air out of his inflated ego." Kirkus Review

"Yolen and Harris open a promising series with this tale of the teenage Odysseus encountering storms, pirates, creatures both natural and supernatural -- and a wise, practical young woman to take some of the air out of his inflated ego." Kirkus Review

Gr 4-7-Drawing on scant details of Odysseus's childhood available in Greek mythology, Yolen and Harris have created an adventurous story of the young hero. He is visiting his grandfather, along with his friend Mentor. When it is time to return to Ithaca, the 13-year-olds encounter a storm at sea, which forces them to abandon ship, only to be picked up by pirates who have kidnapped the famed Helen and her cousin Penelope. Odysseus escapes, landing on an island inhabited by a lonely centaur. The pirates land here as well and Odysseus finagles a rescue. The young escapees then end up on Crete, where they are captured and thrown into the Serpent's Maze. The background details of mythology are woven into the tale without overpowering the action, and the setting is deftly created. The young characters are developing the habits and dispositions that will define their roles in future tales. Odysseus is a wanderer, loves adventure, and arrogantly acts without thinking. Helen is self-centered and pampered but finally shows some moral fiber. Penelope is the unsung heroine, guiding Odysseus and remaining faithful to him throughout. Mentor, a lesser-known character, is true as well. The authors have done a fine job of placing this original tale firmly into the Greek literature tradition. For fans of myth, it will be a welcome addition; use it to introduce adventure enthusiasts to mythology as well.-Angela J. Reynolds, Washington County Cooperative Library Services, Aloha, OR Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.