The Adventures of Ulysses

Bernard Evslin
77 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
YA
Published in 1969

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Book Brief

Bernard Evslin

The Adventures of Ulysses

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1969
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mythology

•

Historical Fiction

•

Action & Adventure
Setting

Ancient Greece • Mythological Era

Theme
Fate

•

Masculinity

•

War
Topic
European History

•

Military & War

•

World History
First Publication Year

1969

Publisher

Scholastic Paperbacks

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

3.6

2,595 ratings

55%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Adventures of Ulysses?

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.

3.6

2,595 ratings

55%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Character List

A central hero on the Greek side during the Trojan War, known for his cleverness and leadership, particularly his creation of the Trojan Horse. He faces numerous challenges on his journey home, showcasing various classic heroic traits.

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.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mythology

•

Historical Fiction

•

Action & Adventure
Setting

Ancient Greece • Mythological Era

Theme
Fate

•

Masculinity

•

War
Topic
European History

•

Military & War

•

World History
First Publication Year

1969

Publisher

Scholastic Paperbacks

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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