Autobiography of Red by Anne CarsonMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Anne Carson's compelling language makes this book a masterpiece in verse. Autobiography of Red is a coming-of-age story loosely based on the story of Herakles' tenth labor (stealing the cattle of the monster Geryon). This version is set in the modern day--Geryon is still a red monster with wings, but he's also a photographer with his own familial troubles and thirst for adventure. He meets Herakles, and they fall in love, but Herakles departs from his life shortly after, not to be seen again until years later when Geryon is taking a trip through South America. Carson's use of unlikely yet apt description and Geryon's singular, confused voice makes this book utterly unforgettable. His trials with an abusive brother, a feeble mother, and lost love make it surprisingly easily to empathize with the red monster. Overall, this book is recommended to all fans of poetry and mythology. - Elisabeth S. '16
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