Beowulf, adapted and illustrated by Gareth Hinds (Graphic Novel)

Bibliographic Information:
Hinds, G. (1999). Beowulf. Candlewick Press, ISBN: 978-0763630225 adapted and illustrated by Gareth Hinds (Graphic Novel)

Book Awards:
None


Plot Summary:
A terrible monster attacks the great hall of the King at night, killing every warrior who tries to stand against it. Beowulf, a young warrior from across the sea, arrives, saying that he has heard of the plight of the people, and that he will meet the creature without weapons and defeat it. Although he injures it gravely, it flees, and Beowulf must pursue it into its watery lair. The monster's angry mother lies in wait for him there, and the King and his people despair of ever seeing the brave young hero again.

Critical Evaluation:
This illustrated version of Beowulf is riveting. The language used is completely modern, with no attempt to retain its original form of epic poetry, making it easy to follow for a young audience. In keeping with the original tale, however, the gore is of epic proportions! This book is well aimed at a tween and teen audience. Unlike many children's versions of Beowulf, it does not stop with the defeat of Grindel's mother, but continues on through Beowulf's long life. Unlike some adult versions (such as the recent movie), it does not go into Beowulf's love life. The illustrations are gorgeous and gritty and gripping-- a true tribute to this magnificent tale.

Reader's Annotation:
Will young Beowulf defeat Grindel, only to be defeated by the monster's mother?

About the Author:
Gareth Hinds was born in and grew up in Vermont. He drew comics from an early age, and, after attending Parsons School of Design and Rochester Institute of Technology, he moved on to creating computer game animation. He has lately begun adapting classics into graphic novels, including both Beowulf and Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice. Since both of these books were very successful, he now writes graphic novels full time.

Genre:
Graphic novel/Historical fiction

Curriculum Ties:
Art
History

Booktalking Ideas:
Wondered what Grindel looks like? What happened afterward?

Interest Age:
12+

Challenge Issues:
Violent images
If a challenge should occur, read the book! Urge parent to do the same. Cite reviews. Refer to collection development policy. If dispute continues, parents' wishes regarding their own children will be respected.

Reason Included:
The flashy cover and promise of pictures pulled me in, and I've always loved this story.