The Hound of Ulster: A Bloomsbury Reader

This captivating retelling of an Irish legend follows young Setanta as he seeks to prove himself against the fearsome guard dog in The Hound of Ulster: A Bloomsbury Reader.

In The Hound of Ulster: A Bloomsbury Reader, Malachy Doyle presents a captivating retelling of the legendary tale of Cúchulainn, a hero from Irish folklore. The story follows young Setanta, a determined boy who dreams of impressing the formidable king of Ulster and joining the esteemed Red Branch Knights. Setanta possesses remarkable skills in hurling and is confident in his ability to defeat other warriors in combat. However, to truly prove his worth, he must confront the ferocious guard dog of the smith Culann, a challenge that tests the limits of his bravery and strength.

This engaging narrative is beautifully complemented by Erin Brown's striking black-and-white illustrations, making it an ideal choice for children who are developing their reading skills. The book not only entertains but also serves as a bridge for young readers to connect with rich cultural tales, fostering a love for literature and storytelling. As Setanta embarks on his quest, readers are drawn into a world of adventure, courage, and the timeless battle between man and beast.

Part of the Bloomsbury Readers series, The Hound of Ulster aims to support children in Key Stage 2 as they begin their journey into independent reading. With contributions from award-winning authors and online guided reading notes provided by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is designed to enhance literacy skills and encourage a lifelong passion for reading.