The Odyssey of Homer

A stunning verse translation of Homer’s epic tale about one man’s decade-long struggle to return home after years on the battlefields of Troy, from National Book Award–winning translator Allen Mandelbaum

The inspiration for the upcoming film The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Elliot Page, Robert Pattinson, and Zendaya

“Muse, tell me of the man of many wiles,
the man who wandered many paths of exile
after he sacked Troy’s sacred citadel.”

So begins one of the greatest adventures of world literature. Homer’s epic chronicle of the Greek hero Odysseus’ decade-long journey home from the Trojan War has inspired writers from Virgil to James Joyce. Odysseus survives storm and shipwreck, the cave of the Cyclops and the isle of Circe, the lure of the Sirens’ song and a trip to the Underworld, only to find his most difficult challenge at home, where treacherous suitors seek to steal his kingdom and his loyal wife, Penelope. Meanwhile, his son Telemachus is on a journey of his own, tasked by the goddess Athena to fend off the suitors and liaise with warriors who fought alongside Odysseus during the Trojan War. But when the paths of father and son converge, they must use all their wits to reclaim Ithaca—or die trying.

Allen Mandelbaum’s brilliant verse translation realizes the power and the beauty of the original Greek and demonstrates why the Odyssey has captured the human imagination for nearly three thousand years.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs