The Cyclops: Polyphemus Tells the Real Story

by Emerson Littlefield

The "Cyclops" of Greek myth tells the story of his life, including his famous encounter with Odysseus. He is a man, not the monster of myth, although he is extremely large, very powerful, and has but one good eye. He tells the story of his troubled childhood; his friendship with his little sister, Anastasia; his love for his mother, Thoosa; and his fraught pursuit of the beautiful island shepherdess, Galatea. It is a story of loneliness, banishment, suffering, love, and triumph. You will love Galatea's down-to-earth character and Anastasia's boundless energy and endless tricks.Just as he is not the monster of myth, neither is Odysseus the great hero. In fact, Odysseus is a piratical raider who plunders cities like the city of the Cicones. He comes to Polyphemus's island not because he is blown off course by unfavorable winds, but because he wishes to steal food and wine for himself and his crew. Although the encounter with Odysseus takes only two days of his life, Polyphemus's take on that encounter is very different from the Homeric version and makes fascinating reading.

240 pages, Paperback

Published March 19, 2024

About the author

I’m a retired high school and college English teacher who now writes full time. My books mostly fall into two categories: murder mysteries and re-tellings of ancient myths and legends. The mysteries follow a deputy sheriff named Denise “Midge” Sumpter in a small, rural northern Florida county called Wassahatchka. The re-tellings of ancients myths and legends include novels told in memoir form written by Polyphemus, the Cyclops of legend; Helen of Troy; Asterion, the Minotaur of ancient myth; and a real historical figure, Xanthippe, the wife of Socrates. In a similar vein, I’ve written a comic tale called Igor, which follows the adventures of Igor, the laboratory assistant to Victor Frankenstein. My most recent completed book is called 2062, a future vision.

Reviews

[Sarah Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Galatea and Anastasia were wonderful characters who brought warmth and humor to the story. The emotional depth surprised me, and I finished the book wanting more.

[Mary Longshore · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of Greek mythology, I appreciated how the author challenged traditional narratives. The fresh perspective on the Cyclops myth made me question everything I thought I knew about the story.

[Moses Philip · Rating 5 out of 5]

The emotional core of this book is what makes it special. Polyphemus is portrayed as a complex individual rather than a monster, and his struggles feel genuine and moving.

[Katie J. Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engaging and imaginative retelling that gives a voice to one of mythology's most misunderstood figures. Thought-provoking, entertaining, and beautifully written from start to finish.

[Lucy Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a refreshing take on Greek mythology. Seeing Polyphemus as a human being instead of a monster completely changed my perspective on the story.

[Rebecca Hastings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how the author gave depth to a character that is usually portrayed so one-dimensionally. The emotional layers in this book really stood out.

[Harry Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The relationship between Polyphemus and his sister Anastasia was one of my favorite parts. It added warmth and humanity to the story.

[Ralph Burney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This retelling makes you question everything you thought you knew about Odysseus. It’s bold, and honestly, it works.

[Andersongloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing feels very personal, almost like Polyphemus is sitting down and telling you his life story directly.

[Beatrice M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel transforms a legendary villain into a sympathetic and unforgettable protagonist. The storytelling is immersive, and the world-building makes ancient mythology feel alive.

[Anthony S. Grand · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved The Cyclops: Polyphemus Tells the Real Story. Emerson Littlefield takes a character often portrayed as a monster and gives him depth, humanity, and heart. The story completely changed the way I view the famous encounter with Odysseus.

[Elle McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written story about loneliness, family, and resilience. The relationships between Polyphemus, his mother, and his sister Anastasia were especially touching. Highly recommended for mythology fans.

[Juanita R. Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the most unique retellings of Greek mythology I've ever read. Polyphemus's voice feels authentic, emotional, and surprisingly relatable. I found myself rooting for him from beginning to end.

[Joyce P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down. The author's reinterpretation of Odysseus was fascinating, and seeing events from Polyphemus's perspective made the classic myth feel completely new and exciting.

[Tammy A. Meyers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emerson Littlefield masterfully blends mythological adventure with heartfelt character development. Polyphemus's journey is inspiring, tragic, and ultimately uplifting.

[Grace Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a refreshing take on a classic myth. Seeing the story through Polyphemus’s eyes completely changed how I view him. Instead of a monster, he felt deeply human, lonely, misunderstood, and even sympathetic. The emotional depth and storytelling kept me hooked from start to finish.