The children of Jocasta, Natalie Haynes.

"My siblings and I have grown up in a cursed house, children of cursed parents . . .

Jocasta is just fifteen when she is ordered to marry the King of Thebes, an old man she has never met. But it is her duty to produce an heir, who will alter the course of her life forever.

Ismene is the same age when she is attacked in the palace she calls home. Since the day of her parents' tragic deaths, it had been the one place she felt safe. But with a single act of violence, all that is about to change.

With the turn of these two events, a tragedy is set in motion. But not as you know it."

In the Children of Jocasta, Natalie Haynes offers a fascinating version of an old Greek myth, from the women's point of view. The result is both beautiful and brutal. This is only natural really, since the Oedipus story could hardly be described as the most pleasant Greek tale. But from the point of Jocasta and Ismene, the story is more humane, more relatable, even lovely at times. That is of course thanks to the brilliant author, a real champion of women in Greek myth, the one and only Natalie Haynes.

Hayne's description of the ancient Thebes is miraculously accurate, she really paints a clear picture for the reader. She keeps the story on familiar roads at first, making you think you know all this already. But just when you think "I know this story", she adds her own unique twist, and the adventure is ready. Even I, who spend a whole lot of my teenage years reading about Greek myths and legends, am constantly surprised by her text. That is why I strongly suggest you try her books too. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. 

Publisher Picador 2021