BOOK BRIEF

The Praise Singer

Mary Renault
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The Praise Singer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003

Book Brief

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Mary Renault

The Praise Singer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

Fantasy

Historical Fiction
Setting

Ancient Greece • Archaic Era

Topic
LGBTQ+

World History
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

The Praise Singer by Mary Renault follows the life of a person named Simonides, an ancient Greek lyric poet. Through Simonides' experiences, the narrative explores themes like art, politics, and cultural transitions in Greece during the sixth century BC. The book delves into the complexities of capturing human achievements in verse.

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,825 ratings

74%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Praise Singer by Mary Renault is praised for its rich historical detail and vivid portrayal of ancient Greece, immersing readers in the life of the poet Simonides. Renault's lyrical prose and deep character exploration are highlights. Criticisms include a slow pacing that may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it's a rewarding read for those interested in historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Praise Singer?

A reader who enjoys The Praise Singer by Mary Renault likely appreciates historical fiction set in ancient Greece, exploring themes of art and society. Fans of The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller and I, Claudius by Robert Graves may find this book captivating for its rich historical detail and character-driven narrative.

4.2

1,825 ratings

74%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

Fantasy

Historical Fiction
Setting

Ancient Greece • Archaic Era

Topic
LGBTQ+

World History
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

770L

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