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Olympians #5
Poseidon: Earth Shaker
Poseidon, the god of the ocean, is a wrathful as a tidal wave and sullen as the ocean's stormy depths. But he cares tenderly for his children, monstrous though they are. The winged horse Pegasus, the merman Triton, the one-eyed giant Polyphemus, and perhaps the worst of them all, the hero Theseus... Mighty Poseidon loves his sons.
77 pages, Paperback
First published March 19, 2013
140 people are currently reading
1732 people want to read
About the author
George O'Connor
74 books456 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads data base and there are multiple George O'Conner's that illustrate comics
George O'Connor is the author of several picture books, including the New York Times bestseller Kapow!, Kersplash, and Sally and the Some-thing. JOURNEY INTO MOHAWK COUNTRY was his first graphic novel, a long-held dream that weaves together his passion for history and ongoing research into Native American life. He's also the author/illustrator of a new picture book, If I Had a Raptor.
He lives in Brooklyn, New York.
George O'Connor is the author of several picture books, including the New York Times bestseller Kapow!, Kersplash, and Sally and the Some-thing. JOURNEY INTO MOHAWK COUNTRY was his first graphic novel, a long-held dream that weaves together his passion for history and ongoing research into Native American life. He's also the author/illustrator of a new picture book, If I Had a Raptor.
He lives in Brooklyn, New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
December 3, 2017
This is a fantastic series on the myths. I love myths and I think fantasy is basically the genre of myths and myth making. I love the art and I love the lens George brings to each god in the family. How interesting to get a story from their understanding and view.
I appreciate the story about Athens and the contest to see which god would win. Poseidon wants to be loved and he brings the people water, yet it's salt water, so not useable so they choose Athena to be the patron of the city due to her gift of the Olive tree. I didn't know that part of the story. I like how that sends Poseidon wandering why no one wants him as patron. He wants to be remembered by man as well. Men live on land and he lives in the sea which matches his mood and personality. Humans can't live in the sea.
I feel Poseidon is an enigma and difficult to understand. I think Rick Riordan does a good job with Poseidon in Percy Jackson - probably one of the best. George also brings illumination to the character and the difficult nature of Poseidon. He is mostly associated with monsters. His children are monsters. I wonder what that is about. I also appreciated the scene where he thinks he escaped being eaten by his father and he realizes that he spent his youth in the darkness anyway. It illuminates Hades and Poseidon so well to think of them being eaton by Chronus while Zeus was not and the difference of their character. 2 brothers were dark and brooding while Zeus was more light like the sky.
These are a gift to us and I can't wait to read more.
I appreciate the story about Athens and the contest to see which god would win. Poseidon wants to be loved and he brings the people water, yet it's salt water, so not useable so they choose Athena to be the patron of the city due to her gift of the Olive tree. I didn't know that part of the story. I like how that sends Poseidon wandering why no one wants him as patron. He wants to be remembered by man as well. Men live on land and he lives in the sea which matches his mood and personality. Humans can't live in the sea.
I feel Poseidon is an enigma and difficult to understand. I think Rick Riordan does a good job with Poseidon in Percy Jackson - probably one of the best. George also brings illumination to the character and the difficult nature of Poseidon. He is mostly associated with monsters. His children are monsters. I wonder what that is about. I also appreciated the scene where he thinks he escaped being eaten by his father and he realizes that he spent his youth in the darkness anyway. It illuminates Hades and Poseidon so well to think of them being eaton by Chronus while Zeus was not and the difference of their character. 2 brothers were dark and brooding while Zeus was more light like the sky.
These are a gift to us and I can't wait to read more.
October 30, 2020
Poseidon, Greek god of the sea, is introduced in this volume of the Olympians graphic novel series. The stories here focus on the conflicts that Poseidon had with heroes and other gods. Among the stories included are Odysseus verses the cyclops and Theseus verses the minotaur. This is a solid series that is a great way to introduce kids to Greek mythology.
first-second-publications
April 5, 2013We're always thrilled when our books hit the New York Times Best-Seller list, but we're particularly thrilled to have this happen for George O'Connor's Poseidon.
George's Olympians series are really wonderful books about the Greek myths, and they really only get better (as demonstrated by the NYTimes Best-Seller list)! This story of Poseidon is similar in structure to the third book, Hera, in that it focuses on the Greek heroes as well as the gods themselves.
Also: there are lots of monsters! Including (arguably) Theseus. Who doesn't love aqueous monsters?
George's Olympians series are really wonderful books about the Greek myths, and they really only get better (as demonstrated by the NYTimes Best-Seller list)! This story of Poseidon is similar in structure to the third book, Hera, in that it focuses on the Greek heroes as well as the gods themselves.
Also: there are lots of monsters! Including (arguably) Theseus. Who doesn't love aqueous monsters?
November 15, 2017
Really didn't like this one. It basically boils down to Poseidon the king of jerks and his jerks family being bitter and envious. Maybe that's why their eyes are green?
We get Odysseus's and Theseus's stories with this one, but no one comes off as particularly heroic in these stories. Everyone just seems terrible.
We get Odysseus's and Theseus's stories with this one, but no one comes off as particularly heroic in these stories. Everyone just seems terrible.
August 31, 2018
I still don't know how I feel about Poseidon. Or the fact that he seems to have a crazy Fu Manchu mustache going on in this books. He kind of comes across as a bitter guy here, which may have something to do with the fact that he seems to be constantly losing to the other gods and all his kids turn out to be monsters. Which would probably get frustrating after a while.
A few of his monstrous kids get listed in a couple panels and Polyphemus and Theseus each get their own story. I actually don't think I've read/heard a version where Theseus was Poseidon's son before. But I liked how here he was grouped in with Poseidon's other monstrous children because even though he looked human, his actions made him monstrous. It was an interesting telling, with the Minotaur being given some sympathy, Ariadne being forgotten on the island until her clothes rotted off, and Theseus seemingly forgetting to change his sail on purpose thus causing his "father" to commit suicide. I've always though Theseus was kind of an ass, so I liked that this story seemed to bring that out.
I also hadn't heard the whole Poseidon escaping Kronos by being a horse bit before. So I actually learned something there, which was fun.
Considering this is a kids book, there are some pretty uh, interesting, things going on. Like implied bestiality. I was kind of surprised that the backstory for the Minotaur got included. Yes, it deals with Poseidon, but it also shows Mino's wife planning a device that will let her have sex with a bull. So, that was interesting. Also, the panel where Polyphemus is chowing down on Odysseus' men was probably the most violent part of the Olympians books so far. Not bad, in my opinion, but some parents like to freak over things like that, so I was surprised about those two things being included.
A few of his monstrous kids get listed in a couple panels and Polyphemus and Theseus each get their own story. I actually don't think I've read/heard a version where Theseus was Poseidon's son before. But I liked how here he was grouped in with Poseidon's other monstrous children because even though he looked human, his actions made him monstrous. It was an interesting telling, with the Minotaur being given some sympathy, Ariadne being forgotten on the island until her clothes rotted off, and Theseus seemingly forgetting to change his sail on purpose thus causing his "father" to commit suicide. I've always though Theseus was kind of an ass, so I liked that this story seemed to bring that out.
I also hadn't heard the whole Poseidon escaping Kronos by being a horse bit before. So I actually learned something there, which was fun.
Considering this is a kids book, there are some pretty uh, interesting, things going on. Like implied bestiality. I was kind of surprised that the backstory for the Minotaur got included. Yes, it deals with Poseidon, but it also shows Mino's wife planning a device that will let her have sex with a bull. So, that was interesting. Also, the panel where Polyphemus is chowing down on Odysseus' men was probably the most violent part of the Olympians books so far. Not bad, in my opinion, but some parents like to freak over things like that, so I was surprised about those two things being included.
May 23, 2019
This is the story of Poseidon. The god of the Ocean, the earth shaker. Poseidon narrates his story from when he first became the god of the Ocean to his life thereafter. In between you get to know about Poseidon's monstrous children. He narrates the story of his son, the cyclops that Odysseus tricked, and how he made sure Odysseus paid for what he did to his child. He narrates the story of Theseus, the slayer of the Minotaur and the one who left Ariadne (the person who helped him) on an island on her own.
The author's note explained how Poseidon was hard to get to know and I could see that in his story since it really only talked about how he became who he is, a competition with Athena, and a story about him trying to overthrow Zeus. Most of the story seemed to revolve around his children. Poseidon's narration added great depth to his story. I thought O'Connor did a great job with Poseidon's perspective and voice. I particularly liked the ending which allowed the story to come full circle by connecting to how the story had begun. The only negative I could think of is the battle with Zeus, it transitioned nicely into another part of Poseidon's life but didn't actually have a resolution with what happened between him and Zeus.
Poseidon: Earth Shaker is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about Poseidon and his children. With a great narration, O'Connor brings Poseidon's story back to life.
The author's note explained how Poseidon was hard to get to know and I could see that in his story since it really only talked about how he became who he is, a competition with Athena, and a story about him trying to overthrow Zeus. Most of the story seemed to revolve around his children. Poseidon's narration added great depth to his story. I thought O'Connor did a great job with Poseidon's perspective and voice. I particularly liked the ending which allowed the story to come full circle by connecting to how the story had begun. The only negative I could think of is the battle with Zeus, it transitioned nicely into another part of Poseidon's life but didn't actually have a resolution with what happened between him and Zeus.
Poseidon: Earth Shaker is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about Poseidon and his children. With a great narration, O'Connor brings Poseidon's story back to life.
December 3, 2017
This one has to get 5 stars. The last few pages of his story are so beautifully told and drawn, I had it give it the golden rating. It's almost heartbreaking when you read this entire life he thought he lived, only for it to be revealed that it was a dream. It makes him a more relatable character. That's not to say he's likable. He's a grade A asshole and so are most of his offspring. But O'Connor got under my skin and that's why so far, this is my favorite of the Olympians series.
April 10, 2025
An enjoyable and convincing character study - Poseidon as the moody, strong yet silent misunderstood type, prone to sudden rages but also a gentle dreamer. Very strong artwork as per the whole series.
December 30, 2020
Personally thought this was much better than the Zeus one as you got a much deeper understanding of Poseidon. I felt it had a lot of depth to it. Very gripping.
August 9, 2012
I thought that George O'Connor's version of Poseidon is quite interesting. I have never pictured him as such a angry person, but it is explained throughout the book. I can see how he could be since he was raised alongside Hades in the darkness of Kronos's body.
This book was a bit different than the rest of the series. Poseidon narrates his own story, so it is told in first person. Poseidon shapes his story starting with the creation of the realms then goes into his struggle for power and finally with his belief that he is where he belongs. Throughout the myths of Odysseus and the cyclops and Theseus are shared. O'Connor is very good at making myths intertwine and also at including information that is rarely found in other stories of the same myths like the creation of the Minotaur and the cyclops. I particularly like that O'Connor included a less believed myth that would explain Poseidon's love of horses as well as his anger.
My favorite pages were when Theseus faces the Minotaur. I love how O'Connor decided to design these pages- it adds suspense and a feeling of action.
I will be rereading this one, because it included the most information of the Olympian GNs that I've read. I hope that there is not too much included for students to enjoy it. I think the Author's Note will play a big part in helping students truly get this GN because it is much more abstract than the others.
This book was a bit different than the rest of the series. Poseidon narrates his own story, so it is told in first person. Poseidon shapes his story starting with the creation of the realms then goes into his struggle for power and finally with his belief that he is where he belongs. Throughout the myths of Odysseus and the cyclops and Theseus are shared. O'Connor is very good at making myths intertwine and also at including information that is rarely found in other stories of the same myths like the creation of the Minotaur and the cyclops. I particularly like that O'Connor included a less believed myth that would explain Poseidon's love of horses as well as his anger.
My favorite pages were when Theseus faces the Minotaur. I love how O'Connor decided to design these pages- it adds suspense and a feeling of action.
I will be rereading this one, because it included the most information of the Olympian GNs that I've read. I hope that there is not too much included for students to enjoy it. I think the Author's Note will play a big part in helping students truly get this GN because it is much more abstract than the others.
April 13, 2013
Volume 5 in the Olympians series is told in Poseidon's voice. This is a good choice as Poseidon is a difficult god to understand. His moods are forever changing as unpredictable as the tides of the sea. He is angry and powerful and makes for a compelling read.
Poseidon takes readers through the process that granted him reign over the sea and explains his hatred of Odysseus. There is a refrain that appears many times in the book the reads "And my children have always tended to be monstrous" which he uses to string his story together as it focuses on many of his children.
The artwork is superb. I especially liked Poseidon's long whisker-like mustache that reminded me of a catfish; very fitting for a sea god.
This series is great for grades 3-5. The violence and sexuality of the myths isn't glorified and is presented at an appropriate age level. Following the story is a wealth of back matter which includes an author's note explaining how the author approached this subject, a fact sheet on the main character, notes about specific parts of the story or panels, discussion questions, a profile of other significant characters in the story, a bibliography, and recommended reading for both both younger and older readers.
Poseidon takes readers through the process that granted him reign over the sea and explains his hatred of Odysseus. There is a refrain that appears many times in the book the reads "And my children have always tended to be monstrous" which he uses to string his story together as it focuses on many of his children.
The artwork is superb. I especially liked Poseidon's long whisker-like mustache that reminded me of a catfish; very fitting for a sea god.
This series is great for grades 3-5. The violence and sexuality of the myths isn't glorified and is presented at an appropriate age level. Following the story is a wealth of back matter which includes an author's note explaining how the author approached this subject, a fact sheet on the main character, notes about specific parts of the story or panels, discussion questions, a profile of other significant characters in the story, a bibliography, and recommended reading for both both younger and older readers.
November 20, 2014
George O'Connor's series "Olympians" tells the stories of the different major gods and goddesses of Olympus and the stories of their children and blessed. In the fifth edition, "Poseidon: Earth Shaker", O'Connor delves into the stories of the Sea God himself. Readers learn of his quarrel with Odysseus, his monstrous children including the cyclops Polyphemus and Pegasus, and his son Theseus (Slayer of the Minotaur), as well as his grudge against Athena and their attempt to overthrow Zeus with Hera.
Fans of Greek Mythology and ancient history will find a place in this graphic novel. The only fault (if you can call it one) I can find with this book is O'Connor describes Poseidon with a full, flowing beard yet depicts him with a fu manchu.
Fans of Greek Mythology and ancient history will find a place in this graphic novel. The only fault (if you can call it one) I can find with this book is O'Connor describes Poseidon with a full, flowing beard yet depicts him with a fu manchu.
Read
June 1, 2016The comic I read was The Mystery of Mary Rogers by Rick Geary. This comic was about a girl during the summer of 1841 who disappeared without a trace from her house in New York. 3 days later her body was found floating in a river. The story goes back in time to capture Mary’s story and the how some women back in that time used sexual opportunities, among other things, to get ahead in life. One of my favorite things they do in this comic is how they illustrate people's faces. I personally didn’t get into this book, but I think anyone who likes learning about history, social classes, or mysteries would really enjoy reading this.
January 16, 2013
When I finished this book, I said to myself, "Poseidon is a really hard character to understand." And then I read George O'Connor's author's notes, and he said pretty much the same thing. The author's notes really helped me to understand the book better, and they sent me back into the book to re-read some parts.
The sequence when Theseus, Poseidon's son, goes into the labyrinth to kill the minotaur is absolutely brilliant.
The sequence when Theseus, Poseidon's son, goes into the labyrinth to kill the minotaur is absolutely brilliant.
May 16, 2014
This one was a little harder to get into than others in the series, a problem O'Connor himself had, and describes in the backmatter. Poseidon is weird. Still, a strong entry in the series, just not advised as the first book anyone should read. It all makes more sense of one starts with Zeus.
Library copy.
Library copy.
July 6, 2016
Rating: 5
George O'Connor's Olympian stories are just amazing. I am so impressed with all of the art and the way he tells a story. I love how all the stories have their own personality with them and you can tell that they are different by the way it is written and Poseidon's story is no different. I loved the retelling of some major Greek Mythology and I cannot wait for the next book.
George O'Connor's Olympian stories are just amazing. I am so impressed with all of the art and the way he tells a story. I love how all the stories have their own personality with them and you can tell that they are different by the way it is written and Poseidon's story is no different. I loved the retelling of some major Greek Mythology and I cannot wait for the next book.
December 4, 2013
A great series overall. I like that this one is in first person, unlike the first 4. Definitely one to recommend.
June 29, 2015
I reviewed these books basically as a whole on the boxed set.
June 19, 2017
More melancholy than O'Connor's previous offerings, this work focuses on several different stories (Odysseus & Perseus mostly). A good view of an often overlooked Olympian.
September 15, 2017
I love this series so much!!! More, more, more!!!
November 19, 2018
I love O'Connor's renditions of the myths. He does such a good job of being fair to the stories and helping the reader to see from the god's point of view (I especially loved the Hera one he did). There is a little bit of violence happening (I mean, there is a cannibalistic Cyclopes and Theseus killing a Minotaur so... To be expected). I loved the brief poem part about Poseidon *swoon* And just, well, I love Poseidon so, a bit biased. BUT that means I'm easily annoyed with how he's portrayed and I thought O'Connor did such a good job. I loved the inclusion of the story of him and Demeter and the whole thing about infinity and time and ANYWAY lots of things (I'm sure this doesn't make a lot of sense but WHATEVER). Definitely recommend this series (provided the reader is not extra sensitive to violence and some might be uncomfortable with some of the content because babies are born and certain things are implied. It will probably go over younger readers' heads, but I know some parents would be Shocked and all, so... I try to be aware of that BUT ANYWAY I love this series).
February 17, 2021
Okay, so, I wouldn’t have liked this book so much on my own - the illustrations are dark and creepy, the language seems unnecessarily complex, and it just didn’t give me that “Oh, NOW I get it!” feeling that other Greek myth adaptations (looking at you, Madeline Miller) have given me. but my 6 year old, when we finished, clutched the book to his chest and said, “This. Was. AWESOME.” So it gets a bunch of stars.
April 12, 2019
preety good
December 12, 2018
It was not a fun book. He didn't include a lot of dialogue.
October 8, 2022
Cool book I thought Poseidon’s art was super duper good
February 2, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
March 6, 2023
By far one of my favorites so far. Made me want to reread the odyssey and read more greek myth retellings
August 10, 2025
3.5 stars
Wow, thank god for Percy Jackson—felt like I was revising! This was a bit confusing though.
Wow, thank god for Percy Jackson—felt like I was revising! This was a bit confusing though.
September 12, 2025
(4.25 rounded down) The artwork really sold me on this one. I also like the additional stories about Odysseus’ journey and the Minotaur that still somehow circulated around Poseidon’s origin.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews