Beowulf

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Lavish and Inspiring - Rated
Beowulf is the oldest surviving Old English poem. It has been retold many times, by many great authors. This is Michael Morpurgo's version. It is a triumph. It is full of grandeur and passion and high drama, breathing new life into the oldest story known to the English. My sons listened as I read, then read it alone.

Beowulf is lavishly illustrated. The artist, Michael Foreman is, as ever, right on the button. His vision is strong and powerful, the colours are bold and the emotions are high but the whole feel is an otherworldy one. The atmosphere is one of high drama and passion but there is nothing to threaten,the effect is inspiring.

I was surprised by the lack of authorial explanation on the source poem, this is my only gripe.