KID BEOWULF: THE BLOOD-BOUND OATH is both a re-imagining of
the epic Beowulf story and the first book in a planned series of graphic novels
that introduce younger readers to classic characters of mythology and
literature. The book begins with an introduction that paraphrases the Old
English poem "Beowulf." Then this new re-imagining of Beowulf begins.
Beowulf doesn't even appear in this book until it's over halfway through. But
that's ok. The story is the exposition needed for the planned series of graphic
novels to continue. I love the story of Beowulf (there has yet been a film
adaptation made that does the story right) and I was a bit hesitant to read
this book. However, I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading more
stories in the series. After this chapter of the story ends, there's a world
map, a description of characters, a family tree, some notes about Beowulf, a
short essay about monster slayer stories, an essay on how a graphic novel is
made, fun facts, a bibliography, and a preview of the next book in the series,
"The Song of Roland." I look forward to reading it.
