Author: Nancy Butler (illustrated by Hugo Petrus)
Genre: Graphic novel, fiction
Pages: 120
Rating: 4 out of 5
Challenges:
FTC Disclosure: I borrowed this book from my school library
Summary (from the inside flap of the book): The tale focuses on the Bennet family, including the spirited Elizabeth. The story of her dealings with English society and the attentions of Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth's fierce and independent spirit vexes her mother, who wishes to see her married off into better circumstances. Mr. Darcy finds her fascinating, if frustrating. Even though she is determined to dislike him, he does not back away; finally, she comes to learn that her pride has deprived her of a chance for happiness.
Review: In my mind Jane Austen's novels are about semi-dreamlike characters who live in beautiful English houses. They have proper manners and lovely fabrics. And, the women are proper. While this graphic novel version of the classic follows the same storyline I felt like the illustrations were a bit...trampy. The women's eyes seemed to be half-closed and a bit too sultry for the Pride and Prejudice that I am used to. Maybe that will play better with the high school students.
I'll confess that I am not a huge fan of reading the regular version of these books. Actually, that's the reason I chose to read the graphic novel. I figured it would be a good introduction for students to a genre of literature that they don't usually jump on.
The BBC does such an excellent job of these period pieces (Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Lark Rise to Candleford, and many others). Perhaps I just need to stick to the mini-series version.
I'll confess that I am not a huge fan of reading the regular version of these books. Actually, that's the reason I chose to read the graphic novel. I figured it would be a good introduction for students to a genre of literature that they don't usually jump on.
The BBC does such an excellent job of these period pieces (Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Lark Rise to Candleford, and many others). Perhaps I just need to stick to the mini-series version.
Geography Connection:
Click to see my updated Google Map. When you read a Jane Austen novel the prose allows the reader to "see" the English countryside, but this graphic novel has most scenes set inside so that ambiance of country living is lost.
4 comments
Uh, I would be disappointed if the characters don't match their original selves - be it in graphic novels or movies. I still *plan* to read the original books someday, so let's see.
Aths--This literature really isn't a great genre for me to read, but I love the TV versions (is that bad to admit?)
This looks really interesting.
Hidden--It was interesting and, I think, a good way to get students interested in reading the real thing
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