The Children of Odin: The Book of Northern Myths by Padraic Colum

A Classic Retelling of Norse Mythology for Middle Grade Readers

Step into Asgard and the worlds beyond in Padraic Colum’s enduring retelling of the Northern myths. The Children of Odin gathers the great stories of the Norse imagination into one compelling volume for thoughtful readers and families.

From the shaping of the worlds to the twilight of Ragnarok, readers encounter Odin the Wanderer, Thor of the hammer, luminous Baldur, Freya of the golden necklace, and Loki the clever deceiver. Giants, dwarves, dragons, and heroes move through these pages in stories that carry both grandeur and depth.

Colum’s language preserves the dignity and scale of the original myths while remaining accessible to modern readers. This edition, edited by Reg Down for clarity, includes light footnotes for unfamiliar words and a brief biography of Colum. Willy Pogany’s elegant illustrations echo the atmosphere and artistry of the Northern world.

Substantial enough for independent middle grade readers and richly satisfying as a family read-aloud, this volume also serves as a natural companion for studies of Norse mythology, Viking history, and Waldorf Grade 4 cultural blocks.

Book Details

• Title: The Children of Odin
• Author: Padraic Colum
• Editor: Reg Down
• Illustrator: Willy Pogany
• Publisher: Pied Piper Press
• Publication Date: June 30, 2012
• Age Range: Grades 4 and up; middle grade to adult
• Format: Softcover
• Page Count: 228 pages