Odyssues
#1 in Marvellous Myths Series
on Goodreads (90)
What’s inside...
High-profile comedy writers Tony Robinson and Richard Curtis bring to life the story of Homer's Iliad, as Odysseus saw it, from the moment he first met Helen to the day he left the city of Troy burning to the ground. Everyone's heard the Greek myths about the wooden horse of Troy and the beautiful Helen, whose face launched a thousand ships to war. This is the story as Odysseus saw it - from the moment he first met Helen to the day he left the city burning to the ground - with all the fighting in between.
Discussion points
What was one brave thing Odysseus did and why do you think he did it?
How did Odysseus solve problems differently from other characters in the book?
What would you have done if you were in Odysseus' place during his adventures?
How do you think Odysseus' long journey home changed him by the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Odysseus' shoes, fostering empathy and critical thinking about the choices the characters make.
Highlight the themes of bravery and wisdom by discussing real-life scenarios where these qualities could be applied.
Use maps or globes to trace Odysseus' journey, adding a visual and interactive element to your discussion.
After discussing a question, ask your child how they might apply the lesson learned from Odysseus' adventure in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout 'Odysseus,' the protagonist faces numerous challenges, including battling mythical creatures and navigating treacherous waters, showcasing his unwavering determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and overcoming obstacles, which can be applied to tackling difficult tasks at school or resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: The value of cleverness and wit
Explanation: Odysseus often uses his intelligence to outsmart his enemies rather than relying solely on physical strength, demonstrating that brains can be as powerful as brawn.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use creative problem-solving in their daily lives, whether in academic challenges or in interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The consequences of hubris
Explanation: Odysseus sometimes suffers due to his excessive pride and arrogance, such as when his taunting of Polyphemus leads to further obstacles on his journey home.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of humility and the pitfalls of excessive pride, helping them to interact more graciously and thoughtfully with others.
Example Lesson: The importance of loyalty and faithfulness
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Odysseus remains loyal to his family and his goal of returning home, despite numerous temptations and setbacks.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the value of staying true to one’s commitments, which can be mirrored in children’s loyalty to friends and dedication to their personal goals.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: Odysseus's adventures are shared through his own narrative recounting his epic journey, emphasizing the significance and impact of storytelling.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to express themselves through storytelling, enhancing their communication skills and sparking their imagination.