The Odyssey: A Modern Retelling of the Voyage of Odysseus — Translated, Annotated and Illustrated

About

One of the greatest stories ever told — retold for the rest of us.

The Odyssey is the oldest adventure story in Western literature. A war hero. A ten-year detour. A god with a grudge, a witch who turns men into pigs, a whirlpool that swallows ships whole, and a wife holding an entire kingdom together with nothing but patience and a very famous loom.

This modern retelling follows all twenty-four books of Homer’s original, bringing ancient Greece to life in sharp, accessible language — with context, wit, and a genuine love for the story. No classics degree required.

This edition includes:

  • A full modern prose retelling of all 24 books of Homer’s Odyssey
  • Comprehensive cast guide and name glossary (Greek and Roman equivalents)
  • 30+ original illustrations — full voyage map, monster bestiary, character field guides, constellation charts, artifact plates, and full-page dramatic artwork throughout
  • Chapter-by-chapter introductions, annotations, and forward previews keeping you oriented across all 24 books
  • Curated further reading guide

Perfect for:

  • Readers coming to Homer for the first time
  • Fans of Greek mythology wanting to go deeper
  • Students seeking an accessible companion to the original
  • Anyone who loved the voyage story and wants to understand it better
  • Fans of the upcoming 2026 Christopher Nolan film looking for the story behind the story

This Turtle & Tides Press edition features an original modern retelling, more than 30 newly commissioned illustrations and infographics, and full annotation throughout — a substantially enhanced reading experience designed for modern audiences.

The Odyssey has been told and retold for nearly three thousand years. This version — warm, relatable, and deeply informed — is the one you’ll actually finish.

Translated and retold by Terri Gallagher, author of The World Tree of Norse Mythology and Pharaohs in Skirts.