Beowulf: The Legend of A Hero

by Nicky Raven, John Howe (Illustrator)

King Hrothgar, the ruler of the Danes, is troubled by the rampages of a demon named Grendel. Every night, Grendel attacks King Hrothgar's wealthy mead-hall, Heorot, killing Danish warriors and sometimes even eating them. Hrothgar was a great warrior in his time, but now he's an old king and can't seem to protect his people. Fortunately, a young Geat warrior named Beowulf travels to Heorot Hall from his own lands overseas to lend a helping hand – literally.

Paperback

Reviews

[Zowie Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this book in a beautiful little bookshop in York - a place full of Anglo Saxon and Viking history. The stunning front cover grabbed my attention immediately too.
The rest of the book didn’t disappoint either. The water colour artwork throughout the story, brings this classic Anglo Saxon Poem to life.
Retold many times, this version provides a more modern version , following the mythic hero from his disarming of the gruesome Grendel to his sword battle with the monster's sea hag mother - right up to the fiery conclusion with an avenging dragon.
Perfect for teachers as inspiration for legend writing and illustrating stories. A beautiful book!

[Zachary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicky Raven's retelling of Beowulf leaves a little to be desired; it feels a little too modern for my tastes. But John Howe's art is beyond incredible, making this a 5-star book all by itself.