45 pages • 1 hour read
Natalie HaynesStone Blind
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes retells the Greek myth of Medusa from her perspective, depicting her origins, her transformation into a Gorgon, and her eventual death at the hands of Perseus, who is portrayed as a spoiled demigod aided by gods. The novel weaves themes of Appearance and Monstrosity, Coping With Trauma, and Consent, Justice, and Violence, providing a counter-narrative to traditional heroics. This book includes anti-gay bias, ableism, implied death by suicide, misogyny, and sexual violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Natalie Haynes's Stone Blind receives praise for its fresh feminist perspective on the Medusa myth, offering depth and empathy to the oft-misunderstood character. Reviewers commend the lyrical prose and engaging narrative. However, some critique it for occasional pacing issues and a complex structure that might confuse readers unfamiliar with Greek mythology. Overall, it’s an evocative retelling that balances modern sensibilities with ancient lore.
Who Should Read Stone Blind?
Readers who enjoyed Circe by Madeline Miller or The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker will find Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes captivating. This book is tailored for fans of Greek mythology retellings, strong female protagonists, and lyrical prose that reimagines classical narratives from a modern perspective.