‘Atalanta’ by Jennifer Saint 

Written by a Year 8 student from Harris Science Academy East London 

“I didn’t have to be an obedient follower of Artemis, jumping to serve her every command; I didn’t have to be a hero in the mould of Jason or Heracles or the angry boar-hunters at Calydon. I wasn’t going to try to shape myself to be like one of them, a ruthless, self-serving, glory-seeking man. I was something different to them all.” 

Jennifer Saint’s ‘Atalanta’ is a feminist retelling of the swift-footed huntress and Argonaut of Greek mythology. Although Atalanta is one of the lesser-known heroines from these ancient myths, Saint transforms this overlooked figure into a powerful representation of women’s capabilities and strengths. 

Atalanta’s story begins with abandonment, as she is cast out as a baby by her father, King Iasus for not being born a boy, and therefore deemed ‘unfit’ to inherit his throne. Raised by a mother bear and later under the guidance of the goddess Artemis, Atalanta absorbs the values of independence, chastity, and female strength – values that greatly influence her later decisions. This upbringing shapes her into a courageous and daring young woman, who yearns for adventure, a wish that is recognised when she is given the chance to sail with Jason and his crew of Argonauts in search of the Golden Fleece.  

In my opinion, what sets ‘Atalanta’ apart is Saint’s ability to humanize the protagonist. Atalanta is not characterized as an invincible heroine favoured and protected by a goddess but as a capable yet lone woman in a world of men. Atalanta is desperate to prove that she is equal, if not superior, to any man, and that is what makes her so human to me. It's a clear parallel to real life, highlighting how women often must go above and beyond, just to be recognised for their abilities.  

Atalanta’s story deserves to be more widely known, not only for its excitement and brutal reality but because it challenges the traditional expectations of what a hero truly is. While a male hero would be admired and praised, Atalanta’s victories are met with skepticism and bitterness. To me, it’s an all-too-familiar double standard that makes her triumphs even more satisfying. This book celebrates women’s achievements while calling out the deep-rooted biases that shaped Ancient Greek society, that are still present today. Atalanta’s story shows that heroism isn’t limited by gender, and her hard-won triumphs, achieved despite the doubt and hostility of those around her, are a constant reminder of her strength and resilience.