An unintended consequence of my Google alert for “Beowulf” was today’s delightful introduction to Kid Beowulf. These “Good Comics for Kids” are created by Alexis E. Fajardo, a talented cartoonist with a lifelong interest in literary classics.
No, they don’t reguritate the Old English poem. The main characters are 12-year-old twin brothers named Beowulf and Grendel, and they have adventures meeting other heroes in other lands. The artist is a first rate cartoonist and his stories are for fun, with elements of “magic, intrigue, [and] betrayal.” Outstanding and very much worth a visit!
Right now, there are three books in the graphic novel series:
- Book 1: Kid Beowulf and the Blood-Bound Oath (2008)
- Book 2: Kid Beowulf and the Song of Roland (2010)
- Book 3: Kid Beowulf and the Rise of El Cid (2013)
Visit the New Readers section for synopses, free excerpts, and a look at the gorgeous cover art for each issue. Book One looks like the best place to start. The comics are linked from the Kid Beowulf website and are also available from Amazon.
