Sparrows in the Wind

by Gail Carson Levine

This latest novel from Newbery Honor author Gail Carson Levine about two princesses battling against their fates in the middle of the Trojan War is a must-read for anyone who loves Greek mythology or the Percy Jackson books!

Cassandra, a princess of Troy and follower of Apollo, is delighted when the god himself appears to her. Apollo asks to love her in exchange for giving her future sight, and she agrees--but recoils when he kisses her. Enraged, the god transforms his gift into a curse: Cassandra's visions will never be believed.

After horrifying images of coming war and death pour into her mind, and with no one to heed her warnings, Cassandra risks her safety again and again to avert the disaster awaiting Troy.

But it will take years--and the friendship of an Amazon warrior princess named Rin--for Cassandra to find hope of success in reversing the course of the war.

With heroines to cheer for and nail-biting adventures, Newbery Honor-winning author Gail Carson Levine once again transports her readers, this time to ancient Troy, where princesses (even cursed ones) will stop at nothing to shape their fate.

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology, Middle Grade, Historical Fiction, Historical, Retellings, Fiction

352 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2022

About the author

Just letting you all know: I'm only going to review books I love. There's enough negative criticism without me piling on. A book is too hard to write.

Gail Carson Levine grew up in New York City and began writing seriously in 1987. Her first book for children, Ella Enchanted, was a 1998 Newbery Honor Book. Levine's other books include Fairest; Dave at Night, an ALA Notable Book and Best Book for Young Adults; The Wish; The Two Princesses of Bamarre; and the six Princess Tales books. She is also the author of the nonfiction book Writing Magic: Creating Stories That Fly and the picture book Betsy Who Cried Wolf, illustrated by Scott Nash. Gail, her husband, David, and their Airedale, Baxter, live in a 1790 farmhouse in the Hudson River Valley of New York State.

Reviews

[Caylie Ratzlaff · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this novel. 2.5/5 stars.

I was disappointed by this. I love Greek Mythology and there were some aspects of this I really enjoyed, but for the most part everything fell flat. I didn't like the writing style, the separate POVs were organized weird and didn't assist the story. I think it would have been better to alternate between Cassandra and Rin rather than have the first half of the book be Cassandra and the second half be Rin.

It also just lacked substance. The whole plot is about changing the fate of Troy, but it seems like nothing happened. Cassandra also has a romance with Eurus....a wind god? But not really a romance?

I'm sure there is an audience for this, but I found myself reading to finish it and considered DNFing it SO many times simply because it did not hold my attention.

[Samantha Carter]

this cover this cover this cover this cover-- THIS COVER THIS COVER THIS COVER THIS COVER

the font. the art style. the colors. stars, it's all so beautiful

I've always been a fan of Levine's work (ESPECIALLY her Bamarre books), and while this definitely seems to be a different venture from her, I'm sure that it'll be written with as much beauty, grace, and light as all of her other books. Truly a credit to the MG/YA age group. Can't wait, I should really get to this one ASAP!

[Anna T · Rating 2 out of 5]

Was given a free copy by netgalley in exchange for an honest review. DNF at 41%. I liked Levine's novels as a kid, so I was pretty disappointed with this one. The writing was repetitive and very depressing, since nothing Cassandra does ever makes a difference.

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to up the rating because I know I’m not the intended audience, but I’ve read many children’s books that I’ve loved despite it not being for my age. So I’m just gonna go with a nuetral rating- I liked it, but I’ve read better, including from this author’s collection

[Kate Waggoner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to #NetGalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books for allowing me the opportunity to read a digital ARC of Sparrows in the Wind by Gail Carson Levine. This middle grade novel will be published October 25, 2022. All opinions are my own.

In the middle of the Trojan War, two princesses battle against fate. Cassandra is a Princess of Troy and follower of Apollo. Apollo has fallen in love with her and grants her the ability to see the future. After she spurs his advances though, he curses her gift so no one will believe her prophecies. Cassandra can see Troy fall, but she’s unable to do anything to stop it. Ron is daughter of the Queen of the Amazons. Her band join Troy in their fight against the Greeks. Rin and Cassandra eventually form a friendship that just may turn the tides of fate.

The first half of the book follows Cassandra and is told from her perspective. The last half of the story is told from Rin’s perspective. I think it would have been more impactful if the perspectives alternates between chapters rather than dividing the book in two. Because of the structure used, there was a major time jump between Cassandra’s section and Rin’s section. Additionally, the story itself just wasn’t as compelling as I’d hoped it would be. The characters fell flat for me and there wasn’t really much action sin the story. While the whole idea of the book is to change the fate of Troy, it really feels like not much happened and then the ending came all too easily. This may be a good read for those who enjoy Greek mythology but it’s slow moving in comparison to books like Percy Jackson or those in the Rick Riordan Presents imprint. Some may have a difficult time getting into and staying in the story.

#2022Reads #2022ReadingGoal #SparrowsInTheWind #MiddleGradeLit #MGLit #MGBooks #MiddleGradeBooks #MiddleGradeReads #ReadingInTheMiddleGrades #TeacherReader #TeachingInTheMiddleGrades

[AllBookedUp · Rating 3 out of 5]

A retelling of the Greek mythology of Troy revolving around Cassandra, a Princess of Troy, whose only crime was rejecting Apollo's affection after he granted her wish, to be able to see into the future. He cursed her by having everyone dismiss her visions.

Cassandra’s character is beyond frustrated and to be honest, I started to lose interest until she meets Rin, an Amazonian princess. Rin was who made this story more bearable because she suddenly brought the story more to life. I enjoy the two princesses' evolving and deepening friendship.

It is a good read for the middle-grade audience who are curious or enjoy reading Greek mythology. I personally found the ending unsatisfying for me.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Harper Audio for this advance digital audio copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Janssen]

This was clever and well-done, although I thought it kind of dropped off a little at the end.

[Juny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it but it wasn’t that great in sad to say. I’m not sure what it is with her new stuff but it’s disappointing. I wasn’t a fan of the two different POVs. While Cassandra wasn’t the zestiest character alive, I grew kind of attached and invested in her story and didn’t like having to hear the rest of it through someone else’s eyes. Also the writing style was very blatant without subtlety. There were often sentences where the characters declared “I like this. I don’t like that.” Very straightforward.
So just, eh, for this one unfortunately.

[Alice Courtney · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve been a big GCL fan since childhood, but her newer stuff is just not good.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a review copy of this work. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **

The Sparrows in the Wind, is as all of Gail Carson Levine’s books I read as a child, engaging, hopeful, and full of strong girls leading with their heart. As soon as I saw the premise for this book, I knew I had to read it- Cassandra of Troy and her Amazon bff??? Conceptually, outstanding. I enjoyed this re-telling of some of the Trojan war from the perspective of a lesser-addressed participant as she tries her best to save her family and people when the odds are against her. I ESPECIALLY love that Levine took something that is usually treated as a footnote- the Amazons assisting Troy- and used it to enhance the narrative and simultaneously drop some interesting information about the Amazons.

Overall, this made for a delightful middle grade adventure. I would definitely recommend for anyone who enjoyed GCL’s other books, as well as those who enjoy authors like Rick Riordan and Roshani Chokshi

[Belles Middle Grade Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I read Ella Enchanted not long before this one (loved it), but I loved this book even more. This was absolutely PHENOMENAL! Cassandra, a princess of Troy & follower of Apollo, is delighted when the god himself appears to her. Apollo asks to love her in exchange for giving her future sight, & she agrees-but recoils when he kisses her. Enraged, the god transforms his gift into a curse:Cassandra's visions will never be believed. After horrifying images of coming war & death pour into her mind, & with no one to heed her warnings, Cassandra risks her safety again & again to avert the disaster awaiting Troy. But it will take years-& the friendship of an Amazon warrior princess named Rin-for Cassandra to find hope of success in reversing the course of the war. I loved the authors take on ancient Troy, & the Amazons, & so much more. The book is split into 2 parts. The 1st part is told from Cassandra's POV, & shows the events that lead up to the war. The 2nd part is told from an Amazon warrior princess named Rin POV when she joins the fighting in the war. The writing is gripping, & such a perfect flow, & I FLEW through this. There's so much to this that makes it amazing, & I devoured this book. Eurus has my heart. The ending was so epic, & the very end had me smiling ear to ear I was so happy, & I love that. HIGHLY recommend! STUNNING cover by Abraham Matias too.💜

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love Levine and was very excited about this new book to share with my older kiddos. It’s just not amazing. The first half of the book was delightful; the second half felt contrived. I wanted the book to be over and had to force myself to finish it.

I did appreciate the review of Ancient Greece and the Trojan War.

Content consideration: This was handled well, but it is clear to anyone with knowledge of sex that Apollos is trying to get the teenage main character to have sex with him. When she refuses, he punishes her. My 13 year-old brought it to me and said, “Mom! This book is about the gods trying to have sex with the humans!” In fairness, Apollo says, “Let me love you,” and from there on it feels more like he wants her to kiss him. There’s no way my 8 year-old would pick up on this.

[Isabelle✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sparrows in the Wind is such a delightful middle-grade novel, reminding me of all the great children's authors like Gail Carson Levine who first sparked my love for reading. Essentially this is a retelling of the Trojan War that is pretty much Iliad accurate, but with some embellishments and a better ending for Troy, suitable for young readers. If I had read this when younger it definitely would have been another reason for my interest in mythology. Gail Carson Levine gives more depth and narrative to characters in the Iliad while still remaining true to the source material. I would treat this as a kind of "what-if" version of the Trojan War.

The book is split in two parts- one at the start of the Trojan War with a 14 year old Cassandra narrating, and the second 10 years later with a (presumably also 14 year old) Rin narrating. This makes sense because Cassandra is 24 in part 2. Part 1 covers the events leading up to the Trojan War, with Cassandra and the addition of the East Wind god Eurus working together to try to prevent the war from happening. Alas, it can't be prevented no matter how hard they try, since it has already been determined by the gods.

It was fun to see Levine's depiction of daily life in Troy in a way that feels very historically accurate, complete with descriptions and explanations for why they lived the way they did. Levine also writes in the kind of straightforward, concise way that makes sure not to confuse the young audience this book is meant for. I liked that she tried to make the contexts accessible and understandable to readers, like her addition of a list of characters at the beginning for kids who might not be familiar with the main players in the war.

Here are some quotes from part 1 (Cassandra's POV):
Aphrodite was the goddess of love and beauty, but people said that Hera, Zeus's wife, was even lovelier than she was. I'd never heard anyone praise Athena's looks. She was the goddess of the city and also Apollo's half sister. Her statue resembled his, though her cheeks were a bit doughy.
--> this is the kind of middle grade humor I still chuckle at :D

In the vision, as if hearing him, Helen raised her head: big eyes, brown with amber glints; a small, straight nose; smooth, ruddy cheeks; full lips. But Oenone was more beautiful than Helen, and neither of them could compare to the three goddesses.
--> I enjoyed Levine's explanation for why Helen was so alluring. She was the most beautiful mortal woman in the world and also has god-given charms, but can't compare to the goddesses (even Paris's first wife Oenone!). It's only due to that supernatural magnetism that everyone (man or woman) is drawn to her and thinks she needs them.

What might I do? These were my ideas: Keep them apart. Tell Helen about Oenone and how much Paris loved her. Describe their son. Remind Paris how much more beautiful Oenone was than Helen and how lucky he was to have a goddess for a wife. Say how important his family was to him. Point out his weak chin to Helen. Repeat Eurus's opinion that Paris was lazy and a coward.
How could I fail?
--> Ah, Cassandra. No matter what you do, events are already set in place and can't be changed. It was fun, though, to see all the ways she tried to, in doing so answering all my "why couldn't" and "what if" questions I've always had about these myths.

Part 2 focuses on the plot that is the meat of the Iliad, 10 years after the war started. We've already seen the perspective of the Greeks and Trojans from Homer, so what Levine does is introduce a new character (not canon, but fun nonetheless). Rin (short for Shirin) is the young daughter of Penthesilea, queen of the Amazons. We who are familiar with the tale know that Penthesilea's death is bound to happen, but we wonder how Rin's fate will intertwine with Cassandra's in this retelling.

Besides plot, though, Levine gives us a look at the daily life of an Amazon, and I really like her interpretation. Levine's Amazons are worshippers of Cybele, which actually makes sense. Their lifestyle is the complete opposite of Trojan women, and Rin's first interactions with the Trojan court are proof of that. I like that Levine took some of her own liberties when characterizing the Amazons while still trying to fit what the ancient myths tell us. Also in part 2, Cassandra acts more as a mentor to Rin since she's ten years older. I honestly let out a breath of relief once Rin started believing Cassandra's prophecies, since that's when I started to have hope about this new plot.

A few quotes from Rin's POV:
Every Amazon past early womanhood has aching hips or knees or both. Already, I feel twinges when I stand up. When we meet other bands in autumn to worship Cybele, everyone-men too-limps. Cybele gave us horses, and horses bounce us into pain. We spend as much of our lives on horseback as walking on earth's belly.
--> Yeah, unfortunately their lifespans probably didn't extend past 40...

We thank Cybele for what we have and don't ask her for anything. After all, she already gave us our grasslands, our horses, our strength, and our roaming natures. The rest is up to us.
-->The Amazons worship Cybele in this version and think the Greek gods are very petty, as they should.

"We don't name people that way. I'm Princess Shirin.
My mother is Queen Penthesilea. We call her Pen, and everyone calls me Rin. We're Amazons."

"The Greeks and the Trojans talk to each other before they fight." Khasa laughs. "Today two of them decided they were friends. They hugged and traded armor." She laughs harder.
"The Trojan gave away his gold armor in exchange for bronze. Meanwhile I killed two Greeks."

And finally they're able to divert the course of the war. What's interesting is that Cassandra leaves Troy to become an Amazon, but I feel like this ending is more the author's fanfiction wish more than anything haha. I think it's an ending that would satisfy young readers, since the real alternative is so much worse.
"Moles hide from the sky. Trojans huddle behind their high wall, but bored Apollo, liking surprise, releases Cassandra to the Amazon queen."

There you have it! My first longer review in a while :)

[Elizabeth Faustina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cool read! I never heard of a mythological retelling before, so this was very interesting. Having a Trojan and an Amazon be friends was such a creative and unique twist to the story. I definitely learned some things reading this since many parts are educational, and if they weren't, I was kept entertained! Would recommend to anyone who is interested in mythology or retellings, or both!

[Rachel Polacek · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Gail Carson Levine — Ella Enchanted is one of my favorite books of all time. But this one…wasn’t. I liked the beginning with Cassandra’s story and the Apollo/Eurus connection, but when it got to Rin, I didn’t love it. I speed-read the last 100 pages or so, but I did really enjoy the author’s note. I’m trying to be more into Mythology, but this one wasn’t quite it. It just seemed to drag in the second half, but I also and not a huge fan of battles in books.

[Nicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two Princesses, one from Troy, one of the Amazons, both give their perspective of the events that unfold leading up to and during the fall of Troy.

Part 1: Cassandra's POV, past tense.
Princess Cassandra of Troy wins the attention of the God Apollo and he grants her the gift of prophecy. But when Cassandra spurns his advances he curses her gift so that no mortal will ever believe her. Unfortunately what she sees is the distruction of her Kingdom.

Part 2: Rin's POV, present tense.
Princess Rin of the Amazon's gets injured on her way to Troy, as the Amazons join up to fight the Greeks. She befriends Princess Cassandra while recovering, and tries to do her part to save her friend.

I found this story to be really interesting and I formative as I only had a passing knowledge of the fall of Troy and any of the characters of the story.

As a middle grade children's book I found it to be a sweet story of family and friendship. How much one would sacrifice and do for the bonds of families and friendships despite how we are viewed by them.

As an addendum to the novel, the author has also written a blurb explaining her research. She tells what parts were authentic myth and which parts she made up to make the story her own fantasy.

My one complaint was my own inability to enjoy the second half of this story to it's fullest because of the switch from past tense narrative to present tense narrative. I really dislike a present tense narrative. That's just personal preference though.

Thank you to HarperCollins Children's book for sending me this ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Laurel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fun, adventurous book that has a neat spin to the story of Cassandra, prophetess of Troy and sister to Hector and Paris. It’s divided into two parts, with the first part being from Cassandra’s perspective and second part from the perspective of Rin, an Amazon warrior. It’s a good way of dipping one’s toes in the Trojan War for young readers. I didn’t LOVE it, but it’s definitely an enjoyable book and a quick read.

This book is clean and suitable for young readers.

[Julia Pika · Rating 2 out of 5]

Could not get into this book at all. Apollo was creepy, the protagonist an idiot, and the writing style was all over the place. Not a fan.

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit hard to get through in the middle, but a good ending.

[maven calore’s venice b!tch · Rating 3 out of 5]

disappointing read. i cannot tell if my displeasure was result of me reading while feeling generally unwell, or just due to the plain lack of interesting things in the book.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books for the opportunity to read an advanced reader's copy of this book for an honest review. (Publish Date: October 25, 2022)

I felt incredibly honored to be selected to read and review an advanced copy of “Sparrows in the Wind” by Gail Carson Levine, because she’s an exceptional writer and storyteller. The moment I saw Gail’s name on this book, I knew I had to read it!

The book is somewhat of a retelling of the well-known Greek mythology stories of Helen of Troy, the Trojan War, and the famous Trojan horse. Part One of the story follows Cassandra – a princess of Troy who receives the gift of foresight from the Greek god Apollo. Unfortunately, when Cassandra offends Apollo when he asks for a gift in return that she refuses to give, he curses her gift so that no one will believe her prophesies.

Cassandra tries to reverse the curse by doing everything she can to make people believe that a terrible war is coming and even tells them how it can be prevented, but the curse is so powerful that even when Cassandra’s prophesies are correct, they’re viewed by everyone as mere coincidences and nothing more. This was exasperating to me, because Cassandra was desperately trying countless times to get someone to believe her only to have no one defend her and, thus, making her an outcast to everyone – including her beloved family.

Part Two of the story occurs a few years later and follows Shirin (known as Rin) – an Amazon princess whose band of warrior women are asked to help fight with the Trojans in the war against the Greeks. Rin’s background and way of life is very interesting – especially how the Amazonian women and men are separated and the women are the warriors. Rin quickly meets Cassandra and the two of them become unlikely friends who will stop at nothing to end the war and stop the senseless killings.

The story hooked me early-on and turned into a much quicker read than usual since I always wanted to know what would happen next! I really liked both of the main characters and how their stories were separate and then combined at times in Part Two.

I also really liked the helpful cast of characters at the beginning of the book, because there are A LOT of characters and Greek gods referenced in the story. Because many of the characters are introduced at the beginnings of the two parts of the book, it’s a little head-spinning trying to keep all the characters straight at first. However, the story took off quickly and any previous confusion I had would almost completely disappear as the story unfolded.

I would most definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in a new twist on the Trojan War. The writing is exceptional, the characters are all unique and memorable, and the story will keep you guessing until the very end. A must read!

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second half was much better than the first. Sparrows in the Wind starts with Cassandra -- yes, that tragic seer of mythology who could see the future but was cursed to never be believed -- meeting Apollo and receiving the gift/curse of prophecy. I struggled with Cassandra's half of the story. She's innocent and naive, but always hopeful to change the future, which she attempts over and over. Nothing works, and it's an exercise in frustration. So the story definitely improved for me when Rin came in after a time skip. Rin is a spunky Amazon princess, untethered to existing mythology and determined to be active. She presents a pleasing contrast to Cassandra, who at this point in the story is older and wiser/sadder (I actually did like Cassandra more in the second half too).

The writing style is very simplistic at times (especially in Cassandra's half -- lots of short, exclamatory sentences). I wasn't too sure how the very HEAVY story of Cassandra (who in mythology rejects Apollo's advances and is later enslaved and murdered) would play out in a middle-grade book. Levine doesn't shy away from mentioning Cassandra's fate, but everything is told in an age appropriate way (for example, Apollo kisses young Cassandra and she immediately pushes him away). I kind of wish this had been a YA book instead; there could have been more focus on Cassandra's transition from the hopeful/naive girl at the start to the sadder/wiser woman. There were so many awful things that happened in the course of the story that are mentioned but kind of glossed over; I feel like Levine writes to a younger audience than she used to. I did like the (apparently well-researched) peek into the extremely limited lives Greek and Trojan women were allowed to lead and how that contrasted with the freedom of the Amazon women. As for the ending -- Rin together with Cassandra do manage to change the course of fate, and Cassandra does not meet the fate of the mythological Cassandra. I was OK with this for the purposes of the story, though it happened a bit abruptly.

This was not my favorite of Levine's by any means, but worth a read for young fans of mythology (definitely a must if they like the Amazons).

[Rose Eleusis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the Middle Grade Iliad retelling that I never knew I needed.

For years, I've been looking for fiction set in ancient Greece that has lovable characters and compelling plotlines. I hate to say it, but adult retellings tend to be incredibly dreary, emphasizing lyrical prose over character and plot. I can only read an endless succession of rapes and anachronistic quotes about gender oppression before I started to get checked out (sorry, Claire North).

Enter the Middle Grade category of literature, where the characters are voicey and lovable and a happy ended is assured but always, always hard-earned. I have no idea why adults are supposed to read and write all these bleak books when kidlit is often so much better crafted.

Sparrows in the Wind doesn't shy away from the ugly realities of ancient life- slavery, war, subjugation of women- but it handles them with care and thoughtfulness instead of a social justice sledgehammer. Girls strive for agency within their limited lives, but they never start speaking like a 21st century woman with 21st century notions of gender equality. I was blown away by Gail Carson Levine's creativity as Cassandra worked to intervene in the Trojan War without her parents finding out. Everything she did felt believable for a clever and creative 14 year old under the thumb of her parents.

Did I mention that this story is as historically accurate as a book about the Trojan War can be? SQUEE!!!

All this just goes to show that you can write thoughtfully about a world with war, slavery, and gender subjugation without letting detract from the sense of fun and adventure at the heart of the story (cough cough Claire North's Ithaca). Gail Carson Levine does an excellent job balancing heavy topics of fate and powerlessness with fun and funny, light-hearted moments.

I loved her Hector. Writers take note, Hector has to lovable in order for your Iliad retellings to work!

I also just really loved reading about Cassandra making offerings at the shrines of various deities. It brought me serotonin to imagine a world in which I could walk down the street and visit Apollo's sacred grove in the middle of a city.

This is a book written for the Middle Grade age range, but anyone of any age can enjoy it. I think a mother daughter book club could get a lot out of this. Topics of female empowerment are handled thoughtfully and add to, as opposed to distracting from, a good story. Helen of Troy was hilarious and I appreciated the message to stop comparing women to each other because there are many kinds of beauty. It's a great reminder for tweenage girls.

As far as pagan representation goes, this one is actually pretty good, albeit not perfect. Hera is wonderful in this book and even Apollo isn't depicted too harshly. Rin loves her goddess Cybele (omg, I've never read about a Cybele worshipper before) and minor Gods get their due.

I love love LOVED that Levine acknowledges that the Gods have a different set of ethics than humans. Mainstream depictions of the Theoi would be so much better if more people acknowledged this.

Well, anyway, this was such a great book. I really couldn't ask for more. Maybe I should start reading/writing Middle Grade mythology retellings instead of holding out hope that adult books will grow a heart.

[Yaritza Alicea · Rating 5 out of 5]

*SOME SPOILERS*
Thank you Netgalley, HarperCollins children's books, and quill tree books for the E-ARC. This story is based on the mythology of Cassandra, Apollo, and the trojan war. The first part of the story is from Cassandra's perspective. She becomes Kanephoros (leading lady who leads the people to do sacrificial rites at a festival) for Apollo. Apollo grateful and enamored by Cassandra, he gives her the gift of prophecy. Cassandra then gets cursed for rejecting his advances. When Cassandra would prophesy no one would believe her — even though they would come true. In the story, I really enjoyed the way the author conveyed some of the character's thoughts and actions when they didn’t believe Cassandra. They would be in such denial even after Cassandra proved them right. Trying to justify the circumstance as a coincidence. When Cassandra realizes the fate of troy she befriends a lesser-known god of the east wind Eurus. She tries everything in her power to stop the war. Her efforts become futile. In part two the story shifts to an amazons perspective a girl named Rin. Trojans recruit her band to fight the trojans. Cassandra as always, lets her trophies be known, and as usual, Rin doesn’t believe her. Until Hera bypasses apollos' restriction and lets Rin and her band of amazons believe Cassandra. Towards the end, Cassandra, Rin, and Eurus's efforts prevailed. Cassandra decided to join the band. Overall, I really loved reading the story. I enjoyed the author's note on their research of Greek customs in order to write the book. The role of Kanephoros and the amazonian lifestyle were very intriguing. We not only get the worship of greek gods but also amazonian gods, and their customs. Also, I love the fact the author implemented a minor god to have an important role in the story. I think we need to hear more about lesser know deities. Helen and Paris weren’t really likable In this story. But that's justified seeing as they were the cause of the war. Paris was gullible and stupid, although I did enjoy reading about his first wife she too had the gift of prophecy and he didn't believe what she would say (she wasn't even cursed). Helen was a people pleaser and didn't have much else of a personality. Also, there's a bit of suspense building up during part one. Some of Cassandra's efforts to stop the war to the reader seemed like she ended the war, but there was always a solution to the problem.

[eve.lyn._.reads · Rating 1 out of 5]

*Every single person in this world can view a work of literature and have completely different thoughts and opinions. My opinion is not meant to offend you. If you do not want to see a review criticizing your favorite book (or a book you enjoyed), then I recommend not to proceed with reading this review.

________________________________
What I liked:
➼The synopsis

➼Eurus was honestly such a loyal dude.

What I didn't like:

➼The execution of the plot

➼The problems all happen because Apollo kisses her. It's really random, and feels like this whole plot device didn't need to happen. Apollo doesn't even show up in the rest of the book, and Cassandra allowed him to kiss her. After she felt repulsed but when he had romantic feelings for her she didn't seem to love his feelings nor hate them.

➼Almost every single character in this book is unlikable and annoying. Almost everyone falls head over heels for Helen, or feels attracted to her, and do a bunch of stupid things. They leave their wives, and have ridiculous quotes to their old wives about how "he loves Helen so much better." Cassandra's twin brother is such a jerk, always spewing such nonsense. Honestly, if he was my twin brother I'd hate him so much. Then there is Paris, the spineless good-for-nothing cheater who downplays Cassandra's every achievement.

➼Cassandra's sisters are either statues or those generic bully girls pointing out their sisters flaws. Like yeesh don't her sisters have a better purpose in life other than catty comments and useless words?

➼Rin feels almost nonexistent. She exists just to tell Cassandra's story in another perspective. She felt like a bland filter on a story only making it less exciting.

➼I understand that Helen's super beautiful and everything. But she has the personality of a brick. She's like a hollowed out human with everything on the outside. I bet if I looked inside brain and soul there'd be nothing.

➼Cassandra spends half the book trying to stop a event from happening. In the end none of her actions really changed anything and what she tried to stop happened anyway. She was a okay protagonist who I enjoyed in the beginning, but eventually it felt like her brain was on replay mode.
_________________________________

➼In conclusion, just not the book for me.

[Olivia]

See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/sparro...

SPARROWS IN THE WIND is an overall fascinating retelling of Greek mythology about Cassandra. Cassandra begins the story excited to be the kanephoros in the upcoming celebration of the gods. However, when Apollo gives her a gift in exchange for her love, Cassandra is excited to receive the ability to prophecy - but shoves him away when he kisses her. Spurned and angry by Cassandra's rejection, Apollo twists her gift so that while she will see the future, no one will ever believe her.

Unfortunately, Cassandra as a Princess of Troy sees their downfall due to Helen and Paris. Given the way her gift was cursed, no one believes her nor is willing to listen. However, Cassandra will not allow all the people she loves to be destroyed, and she is determined to change their fate. As destiny forges ahead, her path crosses with Rin, an Amazon who has come to aid in the war.

What I loved: This really brings Greek mythology to life. Cassandra is a compelling character, who fiercely cares for her family, doing the right thing, and has a fierce determination that means she will not give up easily. Other side characters, particularly the lesser god of the East wind, were really engaging as well.

Themes around family, trust, betrayal, understanding what drives others, persistence, and making your own fate will really appeal to the intended audience. While this is a middle grade read, it will work well for YA readers as well due to the mature themes throughout. Mythology can be a bit tricky for younger readers, and this handles it head-on in some ways (discussing sacrificing children, bargains around the physical, etc.), which will make it work best for older middle grade and YA.

What left me wanting more: The book switches from Cassandra to Rin halfway through, and this really switched up the flow in a way that felt a bit disjointed. It was abrupt and a bit harder to feel as immersed during the change. The story also jumped around in the timeline a bit, so readers needed to reorient in various places.

Final verdict: SPARROWS IN THE WIND is an overall engaging retelling of Greek mythology around the Trojan War that will work well for older middle grade and YA readers.

[Mandi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sparrows in the Wind follows Cassandra, the princess of Troy cursed to see the future and never be believed, and Rin, the princess of the Amazons that comes to Troy's aid during the Trojan War, as they try to turn the ships of fate and prevent Troy's destruction. Gail Carson Levine was always an author that I loved as a kid, so I'm honestly bummed that I didn't like this one all that much.

Character-wise, I loved Cassandra. I thought she was a great character to follow as she tried to save her home. She was extremely dedicated and willing to do anything it took to save Troy. Rin was also an interesting character, but a lot of her personality seemed to be "contrast against Cassandra" more than anything, y'know? Still, I liked her. Cassandra's friend, the wind god Eurus, was alright, I guess, but not too fleshed out either The other supporting characters, such as Hector and Oenone, were cool, but not enough attention. The dynamics, both Cassandra & Rin and Cassandra & Eurus, were lackluster, which sucks because they both could have been amazing.

I really wasn't a fan of how Helen was treated, however. For a book that was very much female-focused, it felt. off that Helen was seen as so, well, pitiful, even as they acknowledged the limited control she had over her own life.

While I liked the plot, it just felt really uneven and flat to me. The first half of the book was better, and I agree with other reviewers that Cassandra and Rin should've had alternating perspectives. I was just expecting more, and the end kind of just fell flat for me. It didn't necessarily feel inorganic, but I didn't particularly like it either. Maybe it's just the way that the narration happened, but it felt like there wasn't a lot of action going on, despite there being a literal war going on.

Just. I don't know, man, I couldn't really get into it. It had a lot of potential, but it just wasn't compelling enough. This is a Greek myth-inspired, female-centric stories about girls saving their homes, which is right up my alley, but I just couldn't find myself loving it as much as I wanted to. I don't really know what to even rank this, because it's not a bad book, just a boring? one, I guess? Ugh, I don't know, I'm just kinda bummed about this one.

[Valerie McEnroe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Adult rating: 3 stars
Kid rating: 1 star

Darn. I was hoping for better. Something historical to go up against Rick Riordan and his made-up mythological world.

The first negative with this book is the slog of an opener. It’s vague. No idea what’s going on. Not even a good sense of time and place. I kept reading despite my strong desire to bail, and I can honestly say it gets better. Nothing earth-shattering. Nothing to make it a book I would recommend. But it does a fairly good job of giving the details of the Trojan War, a topic I enjoy, which makes a difference.

The first half of the book is from Cassandra’s point of view. She’s the daughter of the King of Troy. The god Apollo gives her the ability to see the future, but then turns around and curses her so that no one will believe her. She foresees the whole Trojan War disaster, but since no one will believe her, she tries to intervene on her own. She follows her brother, Paris, to Sparta, with the help of the lesser wind God Eurus, to prevent him from bringing Helen to Troy. The whole thing fails and the story as we know it unfolds, complete with Achilles killing Hector, Paris killing Achilles, the Trojan horse invasion, etc. etc. The female gods Athena, Aphrodite and Hera are involved in the beginning since their contest with Paris is kind of the thing that sets it all in motion.

The narration of the second half of the book is from the point of view of Rin. She’s from a band of female warriors who agree to assist the Trojans. She immediately befriends Cassandra, so the story eventually continues where it left off. There is a brief period of incohesion at the beginning of part 2 when the plot appears to fall off the face of the earth as we learn who this completely new character is.

Kids who already have an interest in Greek mythology (and I don’t mean the Percy Jackson variety), may find something here, but not likely. This book would have worked well in the 1960’s/70s, but not today.

[Vee · Rating 1 out of 5]

A simple story of the Trojan war told from the first-person perspectives of Cassandra of Troy and Rin, an Amazon girl. The story focuses on Cassandra, who was given the gift of prophesy from Apollo, though she was cursed that no one would ever believe what she said would happen.

The story itself was written well enough. I don't usually go in for first-person present tense POV, but the way it was used here didn't bother me.

The story was very lacking in tension, however; there was absolutely nothing driving the story forwards. Maybe it would be better for kids who hadn't had any exposure to the story of the Trojan war, or Greek history (not that I've read any specific histories or stories of it myself, but I've picked up details here and there). Cassandra can see the future, and her foresight is described in the text - so we know exactly what's going to happen (probably why the POV switches to Rin halfway through the book, so we get a little more out of Cassandra's head). I also didn't get the sense of 'well, maybe we can change the future, despite what she sees,' which could add interest, because right off the bat that's proven to be impossible - unless a miracle occurs.

While I personally won't be recommending this to anyone, that isn't to say it won't be appreciated by others. Probably those who enjoy light, low-intensity stories; historical-based fantasy; or Classic-based tales. There was little objectionable content - Apollo attempts to 'love' Cassandra (nothing is shown, and Cassandra realizes what's going on without there being any explanation), some infidelity with focus on extreme beauty (though this is by the antagonists, and, again, nothing shown), and some violence, including self-imposed. All in all, I think it would be appropriate for 7+, with interest tapering off around age 12 due to plot structure.

[Sirah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cassandra is honored to be chosen to lead the annual procession to the sacred grove the year she's 13 and manages to honor the gods despite adversity. She does so well pleasing the gods that Apollo honors her with a visit, but when she refuses to let him make love to her, he gets mad and curses her: although she now has the gift of prophecy, no one will ever believe her predictions. One of the first things she predicts is the downfall of Troy, so she sets out to change fate and stop Helen and Paris from angering the gods, falling in love, or setting foot in her beloved city, but it seems the course of fate is not so easily changed, and even with the help of a minor god of wind and an Amazon princess, Cassandra might not be able to save those she loves.

This book brings together a lot of complex elements, introducing readers to the Greek pantheon, pondering women's role in ancient Greece, trying to outsmart traditions and prophecies, and avoiding angering the fickle Greek gods. There are a lot of heavy themes in this book. Unfortunately, our brave heroine is really young to be dealing with all this. I would have really liked to see Cassandra much older in this book, as her childish thinking and impotency are a cutting contrast to the rather adult themes in this book. It's also a bit of a shock to modern readers that a 13 year old should be expected to start choosing suitors and might have to defend herself against a god's attempts to seduce her. While this is historically accurate, and it's done in a way that's totally kid-friendly, it created yet more imbalance between Cassandra's mental age and the problems she has to deal with. I love a lot of Levine's books, but this one was a miss for me.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for this audio ARC. All opinions are my own.