Scan barcode
A review by badmom
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The choice of first person narrative through Patroclus is clever & moving, giving the entire story more emotional depth, in addition to adding an outside perspective to one of the most famous Greek heroes.
The historical references and details of weaponry & battle are peripheral; the bulk of attention is spent humanizing the characters through their lesser-known thoughts & behaviors.
In the end, this well-known war story becomes a rich, beautiful examination of friendship, love, & family.
The historical references and details of weaponry & battle are peripheral; the bulk of attention is spent humanizing the characters through their lesser-known thoughts & behaviors.
In the end, this well-known war story becomes a rich, beautiful examination of friendship, love, & family.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Violence, Blood, Grief, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Sexism, and Classism
Minor: Bullying, Homophobia, Infidelity, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Slavery, Suicidal thoughts, and Abandonment