Troy

I love mythology and Stephen Fry did an excellent job with this and his other 2 books that recount the ancient Greek tales (I have all three). While it's true that the author does not always follow the "original" plot line, the fact is that the myths themselves vary among the ancient authors. (If you want stories that are true to the "originals," check out Edith Hamilton's amazing book entitled "Mythology." What makes Stephen's books more enjoyable - in my opinion - is that he recounts the Greek tales over three volumes, which allows him to write stories instead of what feels like summaries.)One of the things about Greek mythology is that the stories can get a little convoluted, especially for the modern reader whose lack of knowledge of the cast of characters can be problematic. This is where Stephen excels: he brings together the characters and the story in a way that is easy to follow and entertaining to read. In this volume, Stephen focuses on battle of Troy and all the twists and turns that make this story epic.In addition, the book includes a few color photos of ancient art which depict the characters being discussed. I enjoyed these as well and think they enhance the book.

After loving the first two books in this trilogy I was very excited to read Stephen Fry's take on the Trojan War and, as I have come to expect from him, it was very clear, chronological, and a little bit cheeky in its retelling. Stephen Fry has done a tremendous job in delving into these myths and characters and explaining to the modern reader just what exactly is going on, while poking fun at the repeating parables found in greek myth. If you are interested in Greek myths but are not sure where to start, I would highly recommend this book and the others in the series.

Stephen Fry is very knowledgeable and puts all of himself into what he does, so you can't go wrong with this series. I love mythology and group up with it, so this is up my alley. I just have not read any of them yet.

Excellent book and quality. I’d highly recommend for any Stephen Fry fans.

Can’t go wrong with Stephen Fry. Excellent author. Highly recommend his books.

I remember reading the Iliad and the Odyssey several times from school age to my current late middle age but I have never enjoyed them as much as reading Mr. Fry's interpretation. I honestly couldn't put it down. I read it before bed, in bed, eating breakfast and lunch and late into the night. A most enjoyable experience.

Mr. Fry did a brilliant job (of course). I would happily read more of his mythology books if he is so inclined to continue the series. However!! The dust jackets for Mythos and Heroes were both lovely, shiny metallic and it really bothers me that Troy doesn’t match the design. The finish is more matte, and the design under “Chronicle Books” doesn’t line up. It drives me crazy. If you release it again someday, please adjust!

Concluding Fry's trilogy of the Greek myths, Troy gives a very full account of the war from the founding of Troy to its final defeat. Drawing on more sources than Homer, it's an exciting, well-written story that makes sense of the epic war.