Adventures of Achilles (Advanced Readers: Classics)
For centuries, people of all ages have been fascinated with the myths of the ancient Greek gods. Lupton, a sought-after British storyteller, and Morden, a Welsh storyteller, use their practiced styles to bring the childhood, youth, prowess, and death of Achilles to life. The first four chapters introduce all the characters, both immortal and mortal, who play a significant role in the long war (see chapters 5–12) between the Greeks and citizens of Troy. Achilles, the son of King Peleus and Thetis, is the primary character, though major gods and goddesses interfere at every turn. Hénaff’s color illustrations are done in a style to replicate the ancients, while her detailed facial expressions add wit. The book has no glossary or identifying list of characters, so either bone up beforehand or read it quickly for fun and don’t worry about remembering all the names. Readers who grew up with the d’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths (1962) and those hooked on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series will find this a fun read. Grades 5-8. --J. B. Petty