by John Gardner
194 pages
When you teach senior English, part of it includes reading Beowulf. For several years one of my dearest friends has also taught Grendel. Next semester I will be teaching senior English again, and decided it was time to read Grendel too.
If you are unfamiliar with Beowulf, he is an epic hero. He is known for defeating a dragon, sea monsters, and most famously, the monster, Grendel. In the book, Grendel, Gardner offers an alternative to the story. I mean, the outcome is ultimately the same, but he gives a different perspective. The perspective of "the monster." Now, I have to say that I am a sucker for a misunderstood monster, Frankenstein is one of my all time favorites. However, I didn't love this book.
We get story after story told by Grendel himself. Things that have happened to him, the way he has been mistreated for ever. His interesting relationship with his mom. Unfortunately for me, it seemed to be a bit disjointed. Maybe if I took more time to dissect the stories I would appreciate them more, but for summer reading, this isn't really my thing.
There is a special place in my heart for Grendel too, but only because my first dog ever was named Grendel. Haha. But, needless to say, I will not be teaching this next year.
2 Stars