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Black Ships Before Troy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1993

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Book Brief

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Rosemary Sutcliff

Black Ships Before Troy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1993
Book Details
Pages

151

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Troy • Ancient Times

Publication Year

1993

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

In Black Ships Before Troy by Rosemary Sutcliff, the Trojan War begins after Eris, the goddess of discord, leaves a golden apple at a wedding, sparking a dispute among Hera, Athene, and Aphrodite over who is the fairest. Paris of Troy chooses Aphrodite, who promises him Helen, sparking the war. Achilles, initially hidden by his mother, joins the battle and plays a pivotal role. Following years of conflict, the Greeks use the Trojan Horse strategy to infiltrate and sack Troy, ending the war.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Dark

Bittersweet

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

4,814 ratings

72%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Black Ships Before Troy by Rosemary Sutcliff is praised for its captivating retelling of the Iliad, appealing to both young readers and adults. Reviewers commend its engaging narrative and beautiful illustrations. Some find the language overly complex for younger audiences, and a few critique its faithfulness to the original myth. Overall, it’s a vivid and enriching adaptation.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Black Ships Before Troy?

Fans of classical myths and historical fiction, particularly those who enjoyed The Iliad or Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series, will appreciate Black Ships Before Troy. Sutcliff's vivid storytelling and rich characterizations attract both young readers and adults who enjoy epic tales.

4.2

4,814 ratings

72%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Thetis

A sea nymph married to King Peleus and the mother of Achilles, determined to protect her son and supports him throughout the challenges he faces.

Goddess of wisdom and battle strategy, she favors Odysseus, aiding him and the Greeks with her strategic counsel and clever ideas.

Goddess of beauty and love, who supports Paris by intervening on his behalf and influencing events to favor him.

King of Troy, who longs to protect his city and family during the war and shows compassion and a father's love in his interactions with Achilles.

A Trojan prince whose actions, influenced by Aphrodite, play a key role in sparking and perpetuating the war.

Known as the most beautiful mortal woman, whose relationship with Paris is central to the conflict between Troy and Greece.

A clever and resourceful Greek hero who uses his wit to aid the Greeks and is known for devising the Trojan Horse stratagem.

The High King of Greece and Menelaus’s brother, who plays a pivotal role in leading the Greeks against Troy.

An experienced and wise Greek counselor whose advice aids in key strategic decisions during the war.

Renowned as the greatest Greek warrior with a tragic vulnerability, known for his prowess on the battlefield and his deep bond with Patroclus.

Achilles’s closest companion, who shows courage and loyalty, and stands as a significant influence on Achilles’s emotional journey.

The noble and valiant Trojan prince, committed to defending his city and family with honor.

The Amazon queen and a fierce warrior who allies with the Trojans, known for her bravery in battle.

Two Trojan seers who offer crucial warnings about the Greek threats, although their insight is tragically ignored.

Book Details
Pages

151

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Troy • Ancient Times

Publication Year

1993

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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