Kid Beowulf: The Blood-Bound Oath

'Kid Beowulf and the Blood-Bound Oath' with writing and art by Alexis E. Fajardo is the start of a fun new series for younger readers. The story veers from the Beowulf that I was familiar with, but I liked the story that got told here.

In the traditional tale, and a nice rhyming introduction to this book, Beowulf kills the monster Grendel, and becomes a hero in Daneland to Hrothgar. Beowulf is then pursued by the monster's mother.

This story uses the same characters and covers warring tribes and a few generations. The mistakes of the fathers are borne by the sons. Human Beowulf, and monster Grendel are born to the same mother, then separated. Years later they meet. Will Beowulf fulfill the prophecies of his birth?

There is a world map for the story, a character glossary, an essay about the origins of the epic poem, and more.

The art in this graphic novel was colorful and light. Never very serious or gory, even though the subject has it's violent elements. The author's passion for the subject comes through in the supplemental material. I look forward to the next installment. I'm sure any young fan of myths and legends will have fun reading this.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.