This book is a modern retelling of the Trojan War cycle of stories, first told by the blind poet Homer in the epic poem's the "Iliad" and "Odyssey." Powell brings to life Achilles, Odysseus, Agamemnon, Helen of Troy, Paris, Hector, as well as his own invention, the main character, Helios.



The story follows Helios from a young boy through the course of the 10 year Trojan War, resulting in the climactic capture of Troy by the Greek's strategem of the Trojan horse. As a Trojan, Helios struggles not only against the Greeks, but to win recognition as one of King Priam's sons. The book follows his adventures which lead him from the walls of Troy, and across the Aegean Sea, to the island of Scyros, and in the end, beyond.

I especially liked Richard Powell's style of writing. His dialogue is modern, rather than stilted to mimic the ancient classics. His descriptions are such that he brings the ancient world and its colorful characters to life.

The only thing I didn't like -- was completing the book. I wished it could have gone on for another 300 pages.

When I finished this book, I wanted to read it again. All told, I believe I have read this book at least a dozen times over the years. It never grows old.

This book made me feel more knowledgeable about the past. After reading it, I felt like I'd witnessed the events of 1100 BC.

Richard Powell is one of my favorite authors. He worked as a newspaperman in Philadelphia, then for an advertising agency, and ultimately as a creative writing teacher at Syracuse University. His most famous work is "The Philadelphian" which was turned into a movie starring Paul Newman. Other, lesser known works that are just as worthwhile reading are: "Pioneer, Go Home," (a comedy set in Florida) "I Take This Land," (a serious novel about the pioneering of Florida) and "The Soldier" (a novel about WWII).

I have recommended "Whom the Gods" to at least a dozen friends who have absolutely no interest in mythology or history, and all of them absolutely enjoyed this book.

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The title "Whom the Gods Would Destroy" comes from a line by Euripides:



"Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad."



The reference is to war, and what it does. Euripides' own play "The Trojan Women" is one of the best anti-war plays of all time.

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Created Jul 01, 2002 at 11:08am • Submit your own review...