First Great Book of the Year (for me, it was published in 2011)

I just read Song of Achilles, by Madeline Miller.   I have to confess I don't know or remember much about the Trojan wars.  I know some of the names of the main characters,  and some of the big moments,  but not much else.  

So I pick up this book without much expectation and I'm just swept into the world of ancient Greece.  It's beautifully written,  evocative,  and just feels real,  like a proper retelling.  It has a great sense of time and place,  with small perfect details,  as well as sweeping vistas.  It follows the known story,  but focuses mainly on the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus.  

Also,  don't read the Wiki page if you don't know the story,  because the telling is suspenseful and beautiful.   I was so sad and shaken at the end.  Of course everyone dies - it's a 3,000 year old tale! But how everyone lives and dies just resonates in this book.  I fell in love with Patroclus.  He had a wonderful clear voice.  You don't have to have read the Iliad to read this. 

I'm so happy I found it, and just want to share it as widely as possible.  It was a rich,  honey filled treat.