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Will and the Giant King book cover — a boy in a blue tunic and red cape standing on a hill before a distant castle
Honor

Will and the Giant King

A story about doing your best, whether you win or lose.

Will thinks his strength can conquer anything, until the Giant King gives him three impossible tests. In a frozen castle full of tricks and surprises, Will learns that true strength isn't muscle at all.

It's Honor: being brave, true, and good, even when things don't go the way you want.

A Peek Inside

A few pages from Will's journey to the Giant King's hall.

Illustration of Will walking through deep forests and steep mountains toward a distant castle
"Through forests deep and mountains sheer, Will ventured forth, a challenge near."
Illustration of a giant walking with young Will across a rainbow bridge toward a towering ice castle
"'Come meet my king across the land. He has a test for you that's grand.'"
Illustration of Will attempting to drink from an enormous horn in the Giant King's hall
"Will drank until he could drink no more. The cup stayed full, he sank to the floor."
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Rooted in Old Norse Myth

Will and the Giant King is based on Thor's contests at the hall of the giant king Útgarða-Loki, recorded around 1220 CE in Snorri Sturluson's Prose Edda — a story to show that we should always hold to what is honorable.

More Tales in the Series

Livvy and the Lost Boat book cover Livvy and the Lost Boat Emma and the Silver Sword book cover Emma and the Silver Sword Grace and the Long Winter book cover Grace and the Long Winter

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Will and the Giant King teach?

Honor. Will learns that real strength isn't muscle at all — it's how you carry yourself, especially when things don't go your way.

What age is this book for?

Ages 3 to 8, and it's great fun to read aloud.

What Norse myth is it based on?

Thor's contests at the hall of the giant king (Útgarða-Loki) from the Old Norse Prose Edda, softened for children.

Is it worry-free for little ones?

Yes. It's a playful, exciting quest with a gentle, meaningful ending.

Is it written in rhyme?

Yes — bouncy, playful, read-aloud rhyme.