'The Lost Books of the Odyssey' by Zachary Mason is a collection of alternative stories based on the adventures of Odysseus from Greek mythology. Mason reimagines familiar characters and events from the original Odyssey, offering new perspectives and twists on the classic tales. The book is structured as a series of interconnected short stories, each providing a unique and inventive take on the mythological world of Odysseus. The writing style is described as playful, clever, and surprising, echoing the works of Borges and Calvino, while also incorporating elements of humor and horror.

The narrative of 'The Lost Books of the Odyssey' delves into the themes of possibility and necessity, exploring the concept of multiple selves within the character of Odysseus. Through fragmented sections that mimic lost or discarded parts of the traditional Odyssey story, Mason crafts a fresh and compelling interpretation of the Greek epic. The book is praised for its originality, imaginative storytelling, and polished prose, offering readers a new perspective on familiar mythological characters and events.

Characters:

Characters are multifaceted, with Odysseus exhibiting various qualities while other mythological figures are reinterpreted, providing deeper insights into their motivations and histories.

Writing/Prose:

The writing combines simple yet lyrical prose with philosophical themes, often drawing upon a playful and abstract style that echoes the works of Borges and Calvino.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative presents a collection of short stories that reimagine events of the Odyssey through alternate perspectives and outcomes, creating a rich tapestry of tales that explore the themes of homecoming and identity.

Setting:

The setting is rooted in mythological contexts while incorporating anachronisms that create a surreal experience, allowing for a blending of the ancient and the contemporary.

Pacing:

Pacing varies throughout the collection, with short pieces that invite reflection and allow for a gradual buildup of engagement, leading to richer explorations as the reader continues.

I should have dreamed that night, of choking up a white bird that fought free of my throat, shook itself and flew away, leaving me empty and retching. But in fact there was no warning and I had no dre...

Notes:

The Lost Books of the Odyssey is a collection of 44 short stories that offer alternate takes on the classic tale of Odysseus.

The stories explore various perspectives, including those of secondary characters like Calypso and Polyphemus.

Zachary Mason's writing is influenced by Borges, with philosophical and abstract narratives common in his storytelling.

The book maintains a playful self-referential style with footnotes that provide context but may also feel rather modern.

Stories range from half a page to a dozen pages long, featuring varied tones and themes from dark comedy to sadness.

Mason revisits iconic moments from The Odyssey, such as what happens if Odysseus arrives home to find Penelope remarried or dead.

Some stories feature fantastical elements, like Odysseus being trapped in an infinite tightrope, reflecting postmodern traits.

The book also contemplates the nature of storytelling, suggesting that every retelling adds layers to the original narrative.

Its cover is described as misleadingly labeling it a 'novel', as it's actually a collection of prose pieces that don't follow a cohesive plot.

Echoes of Greek mythology permeate the text, blending familiar characters with innovative new narratives.

From The Publisher:

A New York Times Bestseller

A New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice

Zachary Mason's brilliant and beguiling debut novel reimagines Homer's classic story of the hero Odysseus and his long journey home after the fall of Troy. With hypnotic prose, terrific imagination, and dazzling literary skill, Mason creates alternative episodes, fragments, and revisions of Homer's original that, taken together, open up this classic Greek myth to endless reverberating interpretations. The Lost Books of the Odyssey is punctuated with great wit, beauty, and playfulness; it is a daring literary page-turner that marks the emergence of an extraordinary new talent.

Ratings (1)

Incredible (1)

Reader Stats (5):

Read It (1)
Want To Read (3)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
The Lost Books of the Odyssey?

See the list (62 books)

About the Author:

Zachary Mason is a computer scientist and the New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Books of the Odyssey and Void Star. He lives in California.

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

The Lost Books of the Odyssey

Zachary Mason