Nonfiction Monday is hosted today by Charlotte's Library.

My selection, Beowulf: a tale of blood, heat and ashes, was made for my fantasy-loving sixth graders.

This version of the ancient Anglo Saxon epic is retold by Nicky Raven and lavishly illustrated by John Howe. Howe is well known for his artistic contributions to the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. Raven's narrative conveys a sense of an ancient bard's storytelling while keeping the language understandable even where it is challenging. Character biographies, artist notes and maps complete the volume.