James Rumford children's book author and illustrator

Beowulf

Synopsis:

Superb on all counts--from the elegant bookmaking to the vigorous, evocative prose . . . to the pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations that strikingly recall the work of Edmund Dulac. Rumford even manages to hint at the poem's emotional depths in his concise retelling, which is written almost entirely using English words of Anglo-Saxon origin. The book design is similarly fundamental, with the three distinct parts of the story delineated by green, blue, and yellow backgrounds. Most effective of all is the dragon lurking--sinuously, patiently--behind the panels of the first two sections, foreshadowing Beowulf's eventual fate. (Horn Book, Starred )

"[A] stunningly strong and melodic text that begs to be read aloud...sinuous line and expressive postures add fuel..."--The Bulletin (Bulletin of the Center for Children )

"This hearty account...has terrific art that conveys terror and triumph." The San Francisco Chronicle 11/18/07 (The San Francisco Chronicle )

"[C]ommanding illustrations and concise prose retellings...make the most of the epic's narrative power." Star Tribune 11/22/07 (The Star Tribune )

"Breathtaking pen-and-ink and watercolor paintings." SLJ December 2007 (School Library Journal )

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