Book Review: Ithaca by Claire North
Book Review: Ithaca by Claire North
7 February 2023
There’s always room for an imaginative retelling of Greek mythology, but reviewer Peter Mazanec says that Claire North’s Ithaca falls short of its potential.
Ithaca is the story of Queen Penelope, the ruler of Ithaca, in the absence of the legendary Odysseus, who left for Troy 17 years ago and never returned. As time passes and hope for Odysseus’ return fades, impatience from rivals sets in and Penelope’s reign is increasingly threatened.
I am a big fan of historical fiction, but I found this book difficult to get into. Many characters were not developed enough for me to feel emotionally connected to them. The Goddess Hera narrates the story and gives the reader a good vantage point for the intertwining story arcs of the leading players, but her bird’s-eye view shifts to different characters rather quickly, making it difficult to remember all the names and places introduced in short succession. I also felt disconnected from Penelope, the protagonist, and felt she deserved to have more of her story told from her perspective.
If you are a diehard fan of Greek history and are not afraid to work a little to keep up with the story, this epic may appeal to you.
Ithaca is available at major bookstores.
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