About This Book
Adèle Geras's "Troy" offers a compelling and unique perspective on the legendary Trojan War, told primarily through the experiences of the women within the besieged city. Focusing on sisters Marpessa, gifted with "God-sight," and Xanthe, a compassionate healer, the narrative explores their daily struggles, hopes, and heartbreaks amidst the conflict. The story deepens with a dramatic love triangle orchestrated by Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, as both sisters fall for the same young warrior. This 368-page chapter book is ideal for readers aged 8-12, providing a rich blend of historical fiction, mythology, and family drama, making the ancient epic accessible and emotionally resonant.
Told from the point of view of the women of Troy, this novel portrays the late weeks of the Trojan War, when women are sick of tending the wounded, men are tired of fighting, and bored gods and goddesses find ways to stir up trouble.
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Character Death
Romantic Content
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Discussion Prompts
1
How do Marpessa's "God-sight" and Xanthe's healing touch shape their experiences of the war differently?
2
The gods and goddesses play a big role in this story. Do you think the characters have free will, or are their fates controlled by the gods?
3
How does the book show the impact of war on everyday people, especially women, compared to stories that focus only on battles?
4
Discuss the love triangle between Marpessa, Xanthe, and the warrior. How do their feelings of love, jealousy, and loyalty affect their relationship?
5
If you could ask one of the characters a question, who would it be and what would you ask?
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