I'm reading this book because I was asked to by a columnist for our local newspaper. This story was chosen as the first in a series of stories our community is reading. Portions of the story will be highlighted at various community events. I was asked to lead one such event. My topic is vengeance. I hadn't previously read Beowulf. Since I must know the story, I went to the movie and then read this book. The movie doesn't follow the story. Some of this book is a bit confusing. It's translated from the original. The story of the story is fascinating. I am rereading for better understanding. It isn't your typical escape fiction. I'm also reading other versions of the translation.