This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Constance Stadler for Readers' Favorite
In the children’s book Achilles, Simon Spence relates the tale of this ancient Greek mythological hero in a way that makes it accessible and compelling for young readers. Through skilled writing, the story becomes a grand adventure, and key events, such as his mother, the sea-nymph Thetis, doing everything within her power to make Achilles immortal while leaving his heel vulnerable, become engrossing. The unprotected heel will matter, but how? A child will linger on the pages to see what happens next as the author uses character development, clear and engaging narrative flow, and kid-friendly language. Describing Odysseus as sneaky when he brings the Trojan Horse within the gates of Troy will connect as much as any plot element in a Marvel comic book.
Looking at Achilles from a broader perspective, the young reader may also start to understand the value of learning history. This objective is a creative priority in this series of books on Greek mythology by Simon Spence. The unintended detour to King Telephus, who guides the Greeks to Troy, mirrors common childhood experiences. Getting lost and needing assistance is a very relatable event. Another strength of the book is its captivating presentation. The typography and illustrations are exceptional. In paying meticulous and comprehensive attention to every facet of the book's design, its value as a resource that could make a substantive educational impact is an excellent reason why it warrants a wide readership.
