The Hero Beowulf

Written by: Eric A. Kimmel

First line: Beowulf, son of Ecgtheow, had been a hero since childhood.

Why you should read this book: The beginning of the ancient epic is retold as a tense and edgy story for children who enjoy battles, monsters, and death. The story begins with Beowulf's heroic childhood killing trolls and sea serpents before shifting to King Hrothgar's trouble in the mead hall. Although this version ends with Grendel's death and the subsequent celebratory feast, it is otherwise fairly faithful to the original text.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You have taught your seven-year-old to read old English.