"A thoughtful and engaging tale that uses the fable of the "Three Billy Goats Gruff" to probe philosophical questions which are deeply relevant for our times."
IndieReader.
"Billy Goats Gruff is a delightful tale of three brothers with distinct personalities who gain valuable life lessons as they come of age on their adventure. Steeped in rich Scandanavian folklore, Roar Alexander Mikalsen's novella can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Despite looking simplistic on the surface, there is a certain measure of depth and gravitas to the story. The characters feel likable, and Roar Alexander Mikalsen provides them with some beautiful arcs. For example, after all the hardships, the middle brother learns to let go of his anger, the youngest discovers his inherent courage, and the Troll finds redemption. If you're looking for a short adventure story about siblings and growing up, then Billy Goats Gruff is just the book for you."
Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
"Billy Goats Gruff is written in allegorical fashion, with all the main characters being animals and a deeper layer of meaning embedded in the simple tale. I really enjoyed the social commentary, rendered somewhat comic because the civilization was composed of animals. Roar Mikalsen weaves a tale of myth and magic, complete with undertones of equity and harmony. Billy Goats Gruff continues to explore layers of meaning, and when the middle brother is eager to fight, the combatant mindset is challenged by the little brother's effort toward reconciliation. Billy Goats Gruff is for anyone who has ever wondered what it really means to resolve wrongs and live happily ever after."
Cecelia Hopkins for Readers' Favorite
"Billy Goats Gruff: The Origin by Roar Alexander Mikalsen . . . expands the universe of Billy Goats Gruff with complex ideas, and for that reason, it is more suited for teens and older readers. It is an interesting twist which in some ways reflects current society while still retaining its mythological background."
Bruce Arrington for Readers' Favorite
"As with the shorter version, there is an underlying message of empowerment in Roar Alexander Mikalsen's retelling in Billy Goats Gruff, but the added layering modernizes the message in compelling ways. The choices that the three goats face reach beyond the mere confrontation with a bully. It also looks at the many faces of courage, examines the power of compassion, and the yearning for redemption. Each billy goat is blessed with different strengths and weaknesses. The oldest leads with his strength, wisdom, and introspection. The middle goat dreams and blusters, not unlike an awkward teenager testing the boundaries of his world. Of the three, the littlest goat is most relatable. Although timid and fearful at first, he possesses an unquenchable loyalty and the ability to connect empathically with the hearts of others. As each goat might represent a different stage in a child's development and emotional landscape, their thoughts and actions will give young readers the chance to grow into the story and to grow with it."
Carine Engelbrecht for Readers' Favorite
