Just Myrto

Gr 9 Up—Eighteen-year-old Myrto's life has never been her own. A young woman in ancient Greece with no dowry and past her marriage prime, she must abide by the decisions of her male family members and marry whom they choose. But her fortune changes when she becomes the second wife of Socrates and discovers a man who sees her as something more. Under the tutelage of her new husband, Myrto begins to blossom, discovering her own mind and desires. With the world she knows changing rapidly, she will finally need to make her own choices on life, love, and her own destiny. This historical fiction work blends elements of what we know of the philosopher's life with an imagined emotional journey of his briefly mentioned second wife. Myrto grows as a main character but never really becomes a likable protagonist. While the first-person narrative offers an unusual perspective, it also limits readers' immersion in the world of ancient Greece. There is plenty of dialogue and interior reflection, but the minimal action will deter many. The story feels more contemporary than historical and is best suited to fans of the former.—Stephanie Whelan, New York Public Library