What to read after you see The Odyssey (2026)
Did you love Chris Nolan’s take on The Odyssey? You can get more stories inspired by this classic myth at the library. Here’s some our librarians recommend:
Adult Reads:
The Iliad by Homer
An epic poem set during the final weeks of the Trojan War, The Iliad follows the wrath of Achilles after a dispute with King Agamemnon. Through fierce battles and heartbreaking losses, it explores themes of honor, fate, pride, and the cost of war.
The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood retells The Odyssey from the perspective of Penelope, Odysseus’s wife, giving voice to a character often left in the background. The novel also weaves in the stories of the twelve maids, offering a sharp, modern critique of myth, power, and gender.
The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker
Told through the eyes of Briseis, a captive woman claimed by Achilles, this novel reimagines The Iliad from the perspective of those silenced by war. It offers a powerful look at survival, resilience, and the human cost of conflict.
Ulysses by James Joyce
Inspired by The Odyssey, Ulysses follows Leopold Bloom through a single day in Dublin while drawing parallels to Odysseus’s legendary journey. Joyce’s groundbreaking novel explores identity, memory, and everyday life through innovative storytelling.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
This bestselling retelling of the Trojan War centers on the deep bond between Achilles and Patroclus. Blending romance, mythology, and tragedy, it offers an intimate look at love, destiny, and the price of heroism.
Circe by Madeline Miller
The witch Circe takes center stage in this reimagining of Greek mythology, following her exile to a remote island as she discovers her own strength and identity. Along the way, she encounters famous mythological figures, including Odysseus, while forging her own path.
I, Medusa by Ayana Gray
Written in lyrical verse, this novel retells the story of Medusa from her own perspective, transforming her from monster into a sympathetic heroine. It explores themes of injustice, identity, resilience, and reclaiming one’s story.
Lore Olympus (graphic novel) by Rachel Smythe
This modern graphic novel series reimagines the romance of Hades and Persephone in a vibrant contemporary setting inspired by Greek mythology. Blending humor, drama, and stunning artwork, it explores relationships, healing, and personal growth.
Kids, Tweens, and Teen Reads:
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters by Rick Riordan
Percy Jackson embarks on another adventure to save Camp Half-Blood by searching for the legendary Golden Fleece. Along the way, he battles mythical creatures, uncovers family secrets, and discovers that Greek myths are very much alive.
The Odyssey (graphic novel) by Gareth Hinds
This beautifully illustrated graphic novel adapts Homer’s classic tale of Odysseus’s long journey home after the Trojan War. Dynamic artwork makes the epic’s monsters, gods, and adventures accessible to modern readers.
Sparrows in the Wind by Gail Carson Levine
Inspired by Greek mythology, this fantasy follows a young girl caught between the mortal and divine worlds as she searches for belonging and purpose. Adventure, friendship, and courage shape her journey through a richly imagined setting.
The Widely Unknown Myth of Apple and Dorothy by Corey Ann Haydu
When two girls discover they are connected to an obscure Greek myth, they begin to unravel family secrets and the power of storytelling. This heartfelt novel blends mythology with themes of friendship, identity, and growing up.
Styx and Stones by Gary D Schmit
A middle school boy struggling with bullying finds unexpected strength through language, literature, and the myths he studies. The novel uses Greek mythology to explore resilience, empathy, and finding your own voice.
Goddess Girls (series) by Joan Holub
This fun, illustrated series imagines the Greek gods and goddesses as students attending Mount Olympus Academy. Filled with humor, friendship, and familiar myths, the books introduce young readers to Greek mythology through entertaining adventures.