The Wolf-Girl, the Greeks, and the Gods: A Tale of the Persian Wars [Hardcover]

The magic of mythology meets the grit of history in a blazing blockbuster retelling of the Persian Wars from award-winning author Tom Holland, lavishly illustrated by Jason Cockcroft.

The Trojan War is ancient history. The gods of Olympus are silent and have not appeared to mortals for generations. In the city-state of Sparta, young Gorgo’s mother gives a warning with her dying breath: the Persians are coming. The princess Gorgo, weaned on her nurse’s stories of gods and shapeshifters, never forgets her mother’s last words. When at last the drums of war begin to sound, she is swept up in a dangerous game of politics, treachery, and vengeance. With the blood of Herakles and Zeus himself running through her veins and the awakening of a dormant supernatural power, Gorgo, now queen of Sparta, must help lead her city-state against a mighty empire. Unraveling like prophecy and featuring stunning art from acclaimed illustrator Jason Cockcroft, Tom Holland’s dramatic reimagining of one of history’s most formidable wars will echo through the mind of the reader long after they have reached the final page.In this epic tale, lavishly illustrated by Cockcroft, Holland mixes reality and mythology to tell of the Persian Wars. . . . A fascinating work and an ideal primer for curious readers and Greek history enthusiasts alike.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)

A marvelous balancing act of a book. . . Candlewick Studio is at their finest here, with the book's larger trim-size and dedication to presentation elevating the proceedings at every turn. More than a mere book, this is a thrilling experience of history, mythology, culture, and adventure that will appeal to nascent nerds of those varieties, or even the budding Tolkien fan.
—Booklist (starred review)

Atmospheric illustrations ratchet up the melolž