A Thousand Ships

 

It's probably the most written-about war in human history. Finally, after all of these centuries, we get to hear about the Trojan War from the women.

I love this whole genre of literature. Loved it in Circe, love it here. Haynes explores the fall of Troy from the women who were made into slaves, the women who loved the warriors, the women left to fend for themselves. It changes the perspective completely, as women are no longer the ones blamed (Helen) or the ones watching. We hear instead about life as second-class citizens or worse and we are also allowed to be awed by their strength.

If you have even a passing interest in Greek Mythology, this is a fantastic read. It gets tricky at times to keep track of all the women because of their names and the names of the men to whom they're typically attached. But, the payoff of beautiful storytelling is worth it.

My favorite parts of the book are the inserts from Penelope, written as letters to her husband Odysseus. He may be remembered by literature as a brave exploring warrior, working his way home. Penelope sees it another way - and, she's OVER IT. 

Finally (and of least relevance), I love the title so much. The entire time this was on my nightstand, I remembered one of my favorite works of songwriting. The final verse of the Indigo Girls "Ghost" is perfection.

May I?