BOOK BRIEF

Ransom

David Malouf
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Ransom

Fiction | Novel | Adult

Book Brief

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David Malouf

Ransom

Fiction | Novel | Adult
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Historical Fiction

Mythology
Setting

Troy • Bronze Age

Topic
Education

World History
Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Ransom, David Malouf reimagines a segment of Homer's Iliad, focusing on King Priam's journey to retrieve his son Hector's body from Achilles. The narrative highlights themes of grief, redemption, and the human condition, emphasizing personal transformation and the quest for peace during the Trojan War.

Contemplative

Inspirational

Emotional

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.1

5,429 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

David Malouf's Ransom is widely praised for its lyrical prose and fresh take on the classic tale of Priam and Achilles. Positive reviews highlight its deep exploration of grief and redemption. Some critics, however, find the novel's pace slow and the narrative too introspective. Overall, Malouf's reinterpretation is deemed a thoughtful and poignant addition to Homeric literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ransom?

Readers who enjoy Ransom by David Malouf are typically drawn to lyrical retellings of classical myths. Fans of The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller or Circe may appreciate its exploration of heroism and humanity through inventive narratives, emotional depth, and rich prose that illuminate ancient tales.

4.1

5,429 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Historical Fiction

Mythology
Setting

Troy • Bronze Age

Topic
Education

World History
Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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