Beowulf The Brave

by Oakley Graham (Retold By), Emi Ordás (Illustrator)

A brave little boy steps into the big boots of his hero, Beowulf the Brave, in this retelling of the epic poem. But will he defeat the scary monsters that threaten the land?

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2018

Reviews

[Gerry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oakley Graham retells the epic Beowolf poem in which a monster, Grendel, caused havoc for a king who ruled a land that was peaceful and quiet ... that is until Grendel started a riot.

The king and his men were terrified but up stepped Beowolf who feared no creature that lived in a cave and he swore to get rid of the monster. Beowolf's pals held a banquet in his honour and there was much revelry. But Grendel entered to put a stop to it all only for Beowolf to decide that he had had enough. He attacked Grendel and fatally wounded him.

But Grendel's mother was so incensed at the death of her son that she attacked one of Beowolf's friends and killed him. Beowolf tracked her down and with a giant sword defeated her to take his revenge.

Beowolf then returned home across the seas and lived happily for some years before a dragon came along and caused terror for everyone. The people appealed to Beowolf, who put on his armour to battle the dragon, who he slew but in the process he suffered a deadly bite.

The kingdom was, however, saved and thereafter Beowolf was remembered in song to make the people feel merry.

Apparently the original Beowolf poem is more than 3000 lines long - it is the longest poem in Old English - but the essence of it has been captured here, some 15 centuries after it was first told. The illustrations by Erni Ordas are different!

[Les Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good start to learning to read really good English Literature. Look forward to when they are old enough to read the original Beowulf.

[Ardyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imperfect but highly approachable adaptation for young children. Rhyming verse, gory points of the action are covered in the text but not illustrated. My 4yo son's current favorite read aloud.

Note the English title is _Beowulf the Brave_

[Elkaza · Rating 5 out of 5]

A way to introduce children, to one of the great classics of the literature world, Beowulf, I read while at university. It’s a simple summary of the story of Beowulf, which is the longest poem, written in old English. But, has wonderful illustrations to capture the children’s attention, on how the Brave Beowulf, kills the monster Beowulf, and then becomes King. I really enjoyed it, and I hope other people do as well!

[Sonia Critchlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book about Beowulf, it's great for kids to read and it rhymes. I loved this book. Great pictures and easy to understand for children.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Si el niñ@ elije este libro y como adulto le ayudas (comprar, regalar, prestar) para que pueda leerlo, ten por seguro que es una buena elección. Si como adulto, te gustaría conocer un poco más sobre el libro, entonces te invito a leer la reseña:

Es una adaptación para niños del poema épico Beowulf. La adaptación esta pensada para niños menores de 12 años, así que todo esta en dicho tono, y mantiene el enfrentamiento con el Grendel, la madre del Grendel y con el dragón.

Las ilustraciones son coloridas con unos dibujos bonitos.

[John Michael Martinez (Elio. Studio) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This picture book offers a delightful retelling of the epic *Beowulf* poem, making it accessible and enjoyable for young readers. The illustrations are quirky, with a style reminiscent of Jonny Duddle but more subtle, providing a balanced visual experience with both cool and warm color schemes that complement the storytelling.

The story reimagines the classic epic poem *Beowulf* as a bedtime story, where a father narrates the heroic tale to his young son. This approach not only engages young readers but also introduces them to the timeless themes of bravery and heroism in a way they can understand and enjoy.

The tale begins with a king who possesses a golden drinking horn. One day, a monstrous creature named Grendel starts to terrorize the land. Beowulf, a brave young hero, steps up to face the monster, as he fears no creature. The story highlights Beowulf's fearless nature and his legendary battles, which are remembered in songs. Despite the fact that no swords or spears could defeat Grendel, Beowulf vows to rid the kingdom of the menace. Under the silvery moonlight, Grendel attacks, but Beowulf faces him and sends the creature to its grave.

Grendel's demise enrages his mother, who seeks revenge by attacking one of Beowulf's friends. Angered, Beowulf rushes to defeat this new monster. He follows her tracks and ultimately slays her. Beowulf's success is celebrated across the seas, and years later, he rules peacefully until a fiery dragon is disturbed. Beowulf confronts the dragon, slays it, but is left with a deadly bite. Although the kingdom is saved, Beowulf succumbs to his wounds. His brave feats are never forgotten and are immortalized in songs.

The author's use of poetic storytelling adds a rhythmic and engaging quality to the narrative, making it a captivating read for children. Additionally, the book provides fascinating insights into the original *Beowulf* poem, noting that it contains over 3,000 lines, which might intrigue readers interested in literature. This retelling not only entertains but also educates young readers about a significant piece of literary history in an accessible and enjoyable format.

[Meghan Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my English major heart! Beowulf in children's picture book form?! It's lovely.