Graphic Classics Volume 9: Robert Louis Stevenson - Softcover

Stevenson, Robert Louis; Castle, Mort

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0974664804 ISBN 13: 9780974664804

Publisher: Eureka Productions, 2004

Synopsis

• The ninth in a series of books which present great literature in comics and heavily-illustrated format by some of the best artists working today in the fields of comics, book illustration and fine arts. This volume includes comics adaptations of "The Suicide Club,” "The Bottle Imp," and a unique two-part interpretation of "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde" by Simon Gane and Michael Slack. Plus a story by Fannie Van de Grift Stevenson and a collection of R.L. Stevenson's short fables and poems, with art by Hunt Emerson, Lance Tooks, Maxon Crumb, Shary Flenniken, Johnny Ryan, Michael Manning and more.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 7 Up–This series volume does not stand out, but it still makes a fine counterpoint to conventional graphic-novel themes. It includes some of Stevenson's longer stories as well as a section showcasing some of his short poems and fables. Clever rhymes juxtapose easily with the humorous, black-and-white artwork, and the combination invites repeated readings; "The Angler" is a fine example. The story of Jekyll and Hyde is divided into two sections illustrated by two different artists. The events leading up to Jekyll's confession comprise part one, and the confession itself forms the body of part two. Though each section stands on its own, the striking differences in the artistic styles make the transition from one to the other difficult. A brief biography by Mort Castle and a short story by Stevenson's wife, Fanny Van de Grift Stevenson, are included, as is "The Crumb Brothers on Treasure Island" by Maxon Crumb, a recollection of the impact the famous novel had on him and his siblings when they were children. These extra entries offer interesting perspectives on Stevenson's life and influence. There is no adaptation of Treasure Island, but scattered bits of verse allude to its existence.–J. M. Poole, East Rochester Public Library, NY

From Booklist:

Gr. 9-12. This illustrated collection, the ninth volume in the Graphic Classics series, uses visuals by many artists to highlight and retell some of the nineteenth-century writer's novels, poetry, and short fiction. The adaptation of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, though abridged, follows the basic story line. It's the art that surprises. Although the realistic style used in the first part of the story, with its heavy line work and ornate backgrounds, contrasts starkly with the softened, more modern style employed in the second, both convey the underlying darkness of the tale. In stories such as "The Distinguished Stranger" and "The Yellow Paint," the pictures allow Stevenson's humor and wit to shine through. Added bonuses include an illustrated tribute to Stevenson by the infamous Crumb brothers, Maxon and Robert, which recalls their childhood fascination with Treasure Island, and a short, comical biography of Stevenson. A good choice to help introduce Stevenson, with enough humor and irony to grab teens addicted to the likes of Mad magazine. Tina Coleman
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

About this edition

• Publisher: Eureka Productions
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0974664804
• ISBN 13: 9780974664804
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 144
• Editor: Pomplun Tom