Beowulf

by Penelope Hicks

Beowulf is the oldest surviving epic in English literature. This lively novelized retelling, published to coincide with the release of a major motion picture, uses accessible language and dramatic line drawings to bring Beowulf's exciting adventure to life. The story of the warrior's bravery as he slays the ogre Grendel and battles with a dragon retains all of the exhilaration and immediacy of the original poem. In a convenient paperback format, this is sure to captivate young readers discovering the story for the first time.

Genres: Classics, Fantasy, Fiction, Mythology, Childrens

176 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2007

Reviews

[Rapier Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second time I have read through this book. Both of my sons loved this ancient tale as I read it aloud to them. Excellent retelling to spark the imagination of youth.

[Gabriel Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Book "Beowulf" retold by Penelope Hicks I gave the book 5 stars, it tells an amazing story that takes years in the book but is told in just a small book its very compact and tells a compelling and brave story. When this story begins we are introduced to the boy who will become the leader of the Spear-Danes he was called shield sheafing now after a flash forward we are introduced to the monster Grendel a future terror he's described as a monster that hates light and happiness during this same part we are introduced to King Hrothgar as he builds a great hall and once it is built Grendel destroys it. Now moving to another town Beowulf is young and proves his strength. Now skipping a few years Beowulf is grown and goes to help King Hrothgar with Grendel who has been terrorizing them, they ambush Grendel in the great hall and Beowulf rips off his arm thus killing the beast but this leads to a greater threat. Following Grendel to his home they find an even worse beast Grendel's mother attacks Beowulf after he goes to fight her and in a immense struggle Beowulf wins injured but he wins victorious but he never knew that he would face even greater dangers.

[David Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not everyone will enjoy this version of the story, but this book is what got me into Beowulf, and that's what's important about it. It may be a grossly simplified retelling, but that makes it easy for kids to read it as well as much more casual readers. Beowulf is a very important story, and is worth spreading to as many readers as possible by whatever means.

[Jim D'Ambrosia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good effort. Tells the story while remaining fairly poetic.

[Tristan · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fantastic story, truly a classic.

[Jeff Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started reading this after my 6 year old son picked it out at the bookstore. It greatly impressed him. I read it just to see what he'd been up to. A good retelling for children - though probably not for 6 year olds. I'm interested in checking out some of the other books in the Kingfisher Epic series.

[Antony · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stock summary is pretty much accurate. Though this is likely aimed at children there is no reason adults can't read it if they desire a retelling of Beowulf without the verbosity, obscure words and poetic (but sometimes confusing) euphemisms. Hey, one could always read this then work up toward the adult editions.

[Marcus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great adaptation of Beowulf for kids. The language is simplified but the story is fully in tact.