Beowulf

by Anonymous
Grade: B+

Summary: Part history and part mythology, Beowulf opens in the court of the Danish king where a horrible demon named Grendel devours men in their sleep every night. The hero Beowulf arrives and kills the monster, but joy turns to horror when Grendel’s mother attacks the hall to avenge the death of her son. Ultimately triumphant, Beowulf becomes king himself and rules peacefully for fifty years until, one dark day, a foe more powerful than any he has yet faced is aroused—an ancient dragon guarding a horde of treasure. Once again, Beowulf must summon all his strength and courage to face the beast, but this time victory exacts a terrible price.

My views: this is a title that is only spoken with the most dread, surprisingly, by those who have never read it. Word has it that the book is nothing like the movie (it is much better, I've been told!), and it is actually a short, action-packed read! Pick a newer translation for the best read.