What are you reading this week?
Our reading list never stops growing, but this week we're digging into a rich, multi-perspective retelling of Medea.
This week's recommendation feature focuses on the book "No Friend To This House" by Natalie Haynes. Haynes, known for her expertise in Greek mythology, has authored several books on the subject, including nonfiction works like "Divine Might" and fiction retellings such as "A Thousand Ships." Her latest novel is a retelling of the story of Medea, focusing on the perspectives of various female characters typically overlooked in other retellings.
Unlike her previous works, "No Friend To This House" is not centered around Medea herself, who appears much later in the narrative. Instead, the novel follows a series of interconnected stories from different perspectives, many of which are lesser-known characters. These include Jason's mother, Alcimede, who struggles to secure her throne due to her weak husband; Theophane, who gives birth to the famous golden ram; Kleith, known mainly for her beauty and tragic suicide; and the unnamed daughters of Pelias, who ultimately plot to murder their father.
Despite the focus on these various female characters, the novel provides a comprehensive retelling of the story of Medea. Haynes' portrayal of Medea is more sympathetic than most, earning her praise for earning the sympathy she deserves. However, the novel also doesn't shy away from the brutality of Medea's actions, providing ample evidence that her complex character has been undoubtedly earned.
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