600 – 1066
Anglo-Saxon Britain was a time of transformation and cultural growth. King Alfred the Great, a key ruler, is celebrated for his defense against Viking invasions and his efforts to promote learning. The epic poem Beowulf offers a glimpse into the heroic tales and values of the era. Daily life among the Anglo-Saxons involved farming, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of community, with their society deeply influenced by both Christian and pagan traditions.
Picture books
Chapter books
Beowulf: A New Telling
Modern retellings of the Beowulf story for middle-grade readers
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Beowulf: A Tale of Blood, Heat, and Ashes
Dramatic retelling of Beowulf focused on gorgeous illustrations
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Augustine Came to Kent
Classic historical novel about the re-Christianization of England during the Anglo-Saxon period
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Non-fiction books
Horrible Histories Smashing Saxons
Playful overview of the Saxons
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Who Made England?: The Saxon-Viking Race to Create a Country
Stories of Anglo-Saxons and Vikings as modern England took form
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Anglo-Saxons (Ladybird Histories)
Classic overview of Anglo-Saxon history
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You Wouldn’t Want to Be an Anglo-Saxon Peasant
Humorous, informative look at life as an Anglo-Saxon peasant
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Anglo Saxons (Explore!)
Intro to Anglo-Saxons with a focus on archaeological and historical evidence
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History Starting Points: Alfred the Great and the Anglo Saxons
Introduction to King Alfred and the Anglo-Saxons
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The Anglo-Saxon Chronicles
Excerpts from the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles, supplemented by photos and information about life in England
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The Genius of the Anglo-Saxons
Exploration of Anglo-Saxon inventions and other contributions
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