This was a very funny and very cute take on Beowolf! I didn't think I would like this nearly as much as I do, I laughed out loud quite a few times!

Thanks NetGalley and First Second Books for this digital arc!

"Bea Wolf" is an interesting adaptation of "Beowulf" into a comic book for kids. Bea Wolf is of course, this version of Beowulf, although as noted in the ending notes from the author, this book only adapts about a third of the whole original tale of "Beowulf." The illustrations are enchanting, and the narration is both silly and smartly written to mimic the style of the old poem. Kids will likely find the story hilarious, and adults familiar with the story of "Beowulf" are likely to appreciate this comedic adaptation.

This book is a wonder. It's an absolutely brilliant adaptation of Beowulf on so many different levels. Zach Weinersmith expertly identifies the bits and pieces of medieval culture and literature that would appeal to today's kids, and in the process reveals some interesting points about how medieval warrior and contemporary kid culture align. After all, are there two populations to whom promises and gift giving are more important? These subtle parallels will give fans of medieval history and literature tons to think about while entertaining their children. The alliteration, kennings, and epithets evoke the medieval original text while updating the story for modern audiences. I loved this so much.

Weinersmith's take on the classic, "Beowolf" will become a modern day classic. Never straying from the poetic form, he engages a whole new generation of readers, (most of which would never consider reading the original!) The artwork by Boulet captures the emotions, energy and determination of each character; even in apparent defeat, the characters' emotions shine through, mirroring the lines of the poem. Young readers will be captivated by the artwork which will lead them into the rich retelling. Teachers will appreciate the back matter wherein Weinersmith explains how he came to write his version and how in a classroom his work could be used. An outstanding effort and one that may just inspire young readers to seek out the original tale.

Bea Wolf is a funny, quirky retelling of Beowulf if that world were run by the small children in your neighborhood. The illustrations are fantastic as is the strong female character - the heroine from the title. While I enjoyed reading the book itself, I adored the sketchbook and author note at the end which told the history of the original Beowulf, the structure of the poem and how it was worked into the book, and how and why the author wrote this book - and yes, I am a librarian who reads author notes, Zach! A big thank you to First Second Books and NetGalley for the preview copy in return for my honest opinion.

Fantastical contemporary retelling of Beowulf, in which a group of kids have to contend with a 'monster' adult who can turn them into boring adults, with all the trappings of adulthood.

I love it so much. I'm not a big classics reader, although I did read Beowolf many years ago in school at some point. This is obviously not a translation or a direct retelling, but it is an absolute blast to read, and it is reminiscent enough that it makes sense. I would've loved it as a kid, too, and it very well might have made reading the original a little more enjoyable. The art is very fun, and has just enough details to make you sit and stare at the page for a moment, even if you've finished the test. Great read for any age, I'd even say parents could read it to younger than middle grades and it'd be a great time.

First second books have done it again. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC. This is a perfect way to adapt this classic tale for kids and adults. It is just delightful and fun. The art is practically perfection on each and every panel.

This is a cute little book! I love the thought of a childrens heirarchy and royalty lol.
I would’ve loved this book as a kid, and tbh, i loved it even as a 19 year old.
What a fun read :)