The New York Times had a recent article about two new books that adapt the classic Beowulf tale. One is just called Beowulf, and it is adapted as well as illustrated by Gareth Hinds. Candlewick is the publisher, and the age range is 9-12.
The second book is called Beowulf: A Hero’s Tale Retold, both adapted and illustrated by James Rumford. The work is published by Houghton Mifflin.
Many feel that these new illustrated adaptations are one of the many ways to familiarize kids with the bold, heroic tale. And certainly following the success of The Lord of the Rings, publishers feel there is no reason kids would not be enchanted.
Either of these 2 books would make for great gifts.
The original version of Beowulf is a 3,000 line epic poem and one of the very first texts produced in Old English. Although the author of the work is unknown, it is believed to have been written sometime in the later part of the Early Middle Ages.
from M&C News
