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  • Published: 15 October 2015
  • ISBN: 9780552574150
  • Imprint: Corgi Childrens
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 416
  • RRP: $29.99

Ithaka




A fascinating retelling of the classic story of Odysseus from the unusual perspective of his wife, Penelope.

ITHAKA tells the story of the women left behind after the end of the Trojan War. While Odysseus is slowly making his way home, overcoming terrible obstacles sent by the gods, his wife Penelope does not know whether he's alive or dead. How long will she be able to withstand the pressure of the numerous suitors who seek her hand (and Ithaka) - and will she remain as faithful as mythology states, or might she fall in love with one of them?

The vivid colours of life on the abundant island of Ithaka are evoked with magic and warmth, as Penelope and those around her tell their own incredible stories. Interspersed with wonderful verse retellings of Odysseus' adventures, this is a thrilling novel with a contemporary feel.

  • Published: 15 October 2015
  • ISBN: 9780552574150
  • Imprint: Corgi Childrens
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 416
  • RRP: $29.99

About the author

Adèle Geras

ADELE GERAS was born in Jerusalem and travelled widely as a child. She started writing over twenty-five years ago and has published more than 80 titles. Ithaka was shortlisted for the Guardian Fiction Prize and the Whitbread Chirldren's Book Award. She lives in Manchester with her husband and has two grown-up daughters and two grandchildren.

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Praise for Ithaka

An absorbing, sweeping novel that grabs readers from the touching opening page onwards - there's no half heartedness

The Bookseller

Of the many versions of Homer's epic, this is the first - with apologies to James Joyce - to do justice to the women in the story. Touching and engaging

Guardian

Adele Geras's Ithaka is authentic. It's as worked and reworked as Penelope's weaving as she waits for Odysseus post Troy, but it's seamless

TES

Geras brings the story to life with characters whose behaviour and reactions seem very contemporary . . . The pace is gentle, and some difficult subjects are handled with sensitivity

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