Circe

A superb, as unexpected in its nature, as not the normal sort of thing I may have read, but came highly recommended from all the Wilsons. Circe is very much a B-list character in Greek mythology but is given top billing by Miller. Evidently the story is told from her point of view and beyond being immensely readable, it also speaks highly of female empowerment and revenge. Circe can be read as an account of how women (have to) survive in a male-dominated world. Circe herself takes on multiple roles: as a goddess, witch, lover and mother. She is forced to make difficult choices and sacrifices, but the work's conclusion is highly redemptive: Circe finds happiness. I was also fascinated to see Odysseus — the archetype of Greek heroes — cast in a different light, changed and bitter on his return to Ithaca, concerned more about glory than his family (a male versus female attitude perhaps?). Regardless, credit to Miller — an academic — for making myths more relevant for a modern audience. I look forward to seeing what she writes next. 9/10.

By Madeline Miller