Inspired by the work of Michael Murpogo, Byrhtnoth at the Battle of Maldon will appeal to children who enjoy historical novels and who are looking to learn about history in an exciting manner, as well as fans of Robin Campbell's previous books, Running One Thousand Miles and Gallipoli Guns. This work of fiction brings together historical truth and the excitement of battle to teach children about the history of England, the Saxons and the invasion of the Vikings. Beowulf s terrifying quest to destroy Grendel, the foul fiend, a hideous sea-hag and a monstrous fire-dragon is the oldest surviving epic in British. All of us have the virus in the back of our mind, and some of us are out there every day, doing all they can to look after us, to keep the monster at bay, this Grendel, as I call it. Arrows, spears and swords were thrown by both sides in the ferocious battle of Maldon. Byrhtnoth would not agree to pay the requested tribute of silver to avoid battle, instead setting up a small army by the narrow causeway across the river from the Danes. Aimed at children aged 8 - 12 years, this story will open their eyes to the nature of battle in the year 991 when a very large force of Danes prepared to attack the Essex coastline in Maldon.

They will write detailed character descriptions of Grendel and Beowulf and/or a setting description of Grendels lair, enhancing the text by use of figurative language and adverbial phrases, in the style of Michael Morpurgo. In a battle of both heroism and cowardice, it is the sheer determination of their leader Byrhtnoth that is recalled to this day. Beowulfs terrifying quest to destroy Grendel, the foul fiend, a hideous sea-hag and a monstrous fire- dragon is the oldest surviving epic in British literature. In English, children will analyse the start of Beowulf, focussing on the writers use of language.

Byrhtnoth at the Battle of Maldon relays the story of the mighty Saxon leader as he leads his army against marauding Vikings in an attempt to defend his homeland of East Anglia.

Grendel beowulf michael morpurgo