About This Book
Clemence McLaren's 'Waiting for Odysseus' offers a fresh and engaging take on Homer's epic, presenting the story not through the hero's eyes, but through the women who shaped his destiny and awaited his return. Readers will gain insight into the perspectives of Penelope, the steadfast wife; Circe, the powerful sorceress; Athena, the guiding goddess; and Eurycleia, the loyal nanny. This chapter book provides a wonderful opportunity to discuss empathy, different viewpoints, and the strength of women in ancient narratives. It's suitable for children aged 4-11, with younger readers enjoying it as a read-aloud and older children engaging with its themes independently.
Presents the story of Odysseus's epic journey through the eyes of his faithful wife Penelope, the sorceress Circe, the goddess Athena, and his old nanny Eurycleia.
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Discussion Prompts
1
How does hearing the story from different women change how you feel about Odysseus's journey?
2
Which woman's perspective did you find most interesting, and why?
3
What does Penelope's long wait tell us about loyalty and love?
4
How do Circe and Athena show their power in different ways?
5
What challenges did each woman face, and how did they overcome them?
6
If you could add another woman's perspective to the story, who would it be and what would she say?
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