Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes is, undoubtedly, one of my favourite retellings of classical myth. It completely inverts our preconceived ideas, all while being a thoroughly funny and enjoyable read!
We’re introduced to Medusa as we’ve never seen her before. Not as the hideous snake-haired monster, but as a young gorgon, who lives a simple, peaceful life with her dear sisters. Here Medusa is her innocent pure self, before the world betrays her. If you’ve ever felt alone despite being in a room full of people, this is Medusa’s reality. The only mortal in a family of immortal beings, she alone feels the pain of life’s fleeting nature.
Perseus, whom history has been kinder to, is revealed to be a blundering fool. His presumed success is nothing more than a mirage propped up by privilege. His heroic actions become comical, his proclamations trivial, as he bungles his way through his quest. But, in the sad nature of things, he is of course triumphant. For this is, and must be, the way of heroes.
This book will have you crying with laughter. But despite this, underneath it all lie deep currents of love, courage and sisterhood. History does tell us, what is being a woman other than being forever overlooked, betrayed, cheated, misunderstood. And we tell history, being a woman is being strong, even when we break. Being kind, even when the world is unkind to us. Being true to ourselves, even when we are misrepresented.
Don’t be fooled by the easily-flowing prose and laugh-out-loud humour (especially where Perseus is concerned – what a t***!). Stone Blind will tear your heart into pieces.
Buy Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes here.
Read my other book recommendations here.
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