Beowulf by Robert Nye- Katie Vanko EDRL 524 Fall 2014

Beowulf: A New Telling  by   Robert Nye

Katie Vanko EDRL 524

Dragons, giants, swamps, heroes, and swords take readers on a  thrilling adventure in Robert Nye’s rendition of Beowulf.  This is not the traditional epic poem written in Old English.  While that poem is such a significant piece of literature, it can be difficult for younger readers to access.  This version of Beowulf draws readers in immediately, describing the fear the Danes have of the vile monster Grendel.  They need a hero, the most valiant, remarkable hero!  Beowulf faces Grendel in his putrid fen along with his mother.  He surpasses all expectations, even though he is just a man with flaws and imperfections.  My own students love this book because Nye builds suspense through his vivid description of action.  

The novel is a quick read, with a formal style that is still easy to jump right into.  It remains a high interest young adult fantasy fiction novel for students in grades 7-9.  It is definitely appropriate for students in upper elementary and high school as well.  Robert Nye’s purpose is to bring the classic Beowulf story to readers who might not yet be ready for the traditional epic.  Readers will relate to Beowulf and root for him while he faces one obstacle after the next.  There are not pictures in the novel, but the cover contains several images that give readers clues about the novel’s contents.  One interesting point my students have made is that their image of Grendel does not match the one that is illustrated on the cover.  They pictured him differently based on the author’s description.  

If you are looking for action and adventure for students, encourage them to read Beowulf, by Robert Nye.  The novel provides multiple opportunities to discuss conflict, suspense, foreshadowing,the use of figurative, and themes of good vs. evil with students!