A masterpiece! Each character is beautifully developed, consistent, and complementary to the story line which is based on an odyssey or several smaller ones, for that matter. Abernathe's book and Billy's obsession with it are the thread that holds the storyline together. There are lots of lessons to be learned for and from these four characters. I loved Billy who saved the day. I also thought Woolly was special. I believe that the qualities and weaknesses in each character reflect all humans. This storytelling was clever, unique, brilliant and an absolute must read. It brought mythological characters alive. LOVED this book. Highly recommended.