Sweeney Todd The Graphic Novel: Original Text: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Classical Comics)
*Frankenstein: The Graphic Novel: Quick Text. ISBN 978-1-906332-50-1.*Frankenstein: The Graphic Novel: Original Text. ISBN 978-1-906332-49-5.illus. by Declan Shalvey.While remaining true to the spirit of Shelley’s famous work, this adaptation allows readers to have it their way, savoring this horror classic with either the “Original Text,” or the “Quick Text,” a simplified abridgement. More than a straightforward retelling, this edition invites readers to explore important social issues such as alienation, the consequences and ethics of scientific studies, as well as the nature of creation and destruction. Rich and lustrous artwork remains the same in both versions. Bucolic mountainsides and charming villages are rendered in a classical European painting style. In stark contrast, horrific elements are depicted with grotesque angular figures in monochromatic tones. Excellent lettering enhances the narrative without distracting from the images. An especially nice feature is the use of boldface to highlight key words and phrases. A table of contents, based on the original three-volume edition, helps readers follow the story’s progression. Back matter includes a biography of Shelley, a description of the novel’s origin and history, and a clear description of comic-page creation for this remarkable edition. Reluctant readers who start with the “Quick Text” will probably be enticed to try the “Original Text” and continue to explore this exquisite rendition of a gothic classic.—Barbara M. Moon, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NYSchool Library Journal, May 2009