A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
192
Novel • Fiction
•
Historical Fiction•
Action & AdventureAncient Greece • Mythological Era
•
Masculinity•
War•
Military & War•
World History1969
Scholastic Paperbacks
YA
10-14 years
In Bernard Evslin's The Adventures of Ulysses, Ulysses and his men, after defeating Troy with the Trojan Horse, face several perils in their quest to return to Ithaca, encountering hostile gods, dangerous monsters, and enchantresses like Circe and Calypso. Ulysses’s journey includes outwitting the Cyclops Polyphemus, resisting the Sirens, and receiving prophecies in the Land of the Dead. The book includes instances of violence and death.
Adventurous
Mysterious
Fantastical
Suspenseful
Challenging
2,595 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bernard Evslin's The Adventures of Ulysses is lauded for making Greek mythology accessible to young readers, with engaging storytelling and vivid depictions of classic tales. However, some critics argue that the prose can be simplistic and the focus too narrow, lacking depth compared to original sources. Overall, it’s praised for its educational value and imaginative retelling.
Ideal for fans of mythology and epic tales, readers who enjoy The Adventures of Ulysses by Bernard Evslin will appreciate rich storytelling akin to Homer's The Odyssey and Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians. Perfect for young adults and teens captivated by heroic quests, mythical creatures, and timeless adventures.
2,595 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The god of the sea, who becomes Ulysses's adversary after his son, Polyphemus, is harmed. He seeks vengeance against Ulysses, leading to numerous obstacles during Ulysses's voyage.
A one-eyed Cyclops, who encounters Ulysses on his island and is blinded by him. His plea to Poseidon brings misfortune to Ulysses.
A sorceress who transforms men into animals and becomes infatuated with Ulysses. She experiences both love and heartbreak during his stay on her island.
A magical being who holds Ulysses on her island for several years, but eventually lets him leave. She is enamored with mortals and faces similar dilemmas as Circe.
A vibrant princess who assists Ulysses after a shipwreck. Her encounter with him influences her life profoundly.
The faithful wife of Ulysses, who endures a long wait for his return from war. She is pursued by many suitors during Ulysses's absence.
Ulysses's son, who grows up in his father's absence and protects his mother from suitors. He eventually reunites with Ulysses.
A demigod who controls the winds and aids Ulysses by providing him with a bag of winds to assist in his journey. His gift has unforeseen consequences for Ulysses.
Famous warriors of the Trojan War, with Achilles being a formidable Greek fighter and Ajax contesting for Achilles's armor. Both have interactions with Ulysses during and after the war through his journey.
192
Novel • Fiction
•
Historical Fiction•
Action & AdventureAncient Greece • Mythological Era
•
Masculinity•
War•
Military & War•
World History1969
Scholastic Paperbacks
YA
10-14 years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 10,900+ additional titles.