Circe by Madeline Miller

It seems to me that Greek Mythology has become a part of our group consciousness. Maybe we don't all know the details of the stories, but they are the basis of stereotypes and archetypes and storylines that we recognize as they continue to appear in new stories. Something I have noticed in Greek Mythology is how often the women of the stories are pushed aside. In so many myths women are the supporting characters or are mentioned only to remind us of their sons. The amazing thing that Madeline Miller does with "Circe" is she takes one of those supporting characters, the witch we meet in the "Odyssey", and tells us the story of a fully realized character.

Circe is the daughter of a nymph and the Sun Titan Helios. For centuries she lives in her fathers domain as a disappointment because she is not beautiful enough to be useful to her parents. After time passes she discovers that she has powers past the average nymph, as do her siblings, but she is exiled for her abilities. It is in her exile that she becomes the famed witch that we may recognize from mythology. More centuries pass and more visitors come to her island, but I'm afraid if I say too much more I will give away too much of the story.

"Circe" is a story of survival and recovery. From the isolation of her childhood to the invasion of her exile, Circe goes through a lot in this story, but she comes out stronger for it. This journey is inspiring and comforting and beautiful to read. The voice that Madeline Miller gives her narrators is absolutely lovely and a joy to read. And if you want to hear more about my love of Madeline Miller's writing click this link to read my review of "The Song of Achilles".

In conclusion, I love this book, Madeline Miller is a gift, and I would definitely recommend this book to everyone. And if you like audio books my therapists recommends the Audible audio book of "Circe" because it's lovely <3.

XO, Ellen

P.S. I'll be doing something a little different on here for the month of October, so be on the lookout for a post a little sooner than you would normally expect (by which I mean Wednesday, be on the lookout for something Wednesday).