Bram Stoker's Dracula: The Graphic Novel

Of the many admiring reviews Bram Stoker’s Dracula received when it first appeared in 1897, the most astute praise came from the author's mother, who wrote her son: 'It is splendid. No book since Mrs. Shelley's Frankenstein or indeed any other at all has come near yours in originality, or terror.'A popular bestseller in Victorian England, Stoker's hypnotic tale of the bloodthirsty Count Dracula, whose nocturnal atrocities are symbolic of an evil ages old yet forever new, endures as the quintessential story of suspense and horror. The unbridled lusts and desires, the diabolical cravings that Stoker dramatized with such mythical force, render Dracula resonant and unsettling a century later.

Enjoy Classic literature in a new way with Graphic Novel Classics!

Karen Sykeny - VOYA

This Dracula graphic novel adaptation focuses on a traditional visual feel that is faithful to the original book setting used for the most famous movie versions. The illustrations have a retro look to them, and storyboards are detailed yet clean and easy to follow while focusing on characters faces and emotional responses. Most fans of creepy, gothic horror stories should value it. Each book in the Puffin Graphics series contains a "Making of" section at the end that includes discussion or visuals from the creators, such as concept drawings or inspirational musings about the writing or drawing process used. Also, a one-page "About the Classic Author" summary provides concise biographical and literary points that help readers understand the historical importance of these authors. Overall, black-and-white illustrations with good detail along with fair adaptation into dialogue keep the stories moving. This series can be a good addition to existing graphic novel collections where broadening of classic, literary stories is warranted, especially where the Graphic Classics series is popular. It might be the perfect way to get teen readers more interested in reading traditional classic tales by using these more visually appealing and abridged versions. Others entries include versions of Treasure Island, The Call of the Wild, Macbeth, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. VOYA CODES: 4Q 4P J S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2005, Puffin Graphics/Penguin Putnam, 176p., Trade pb. Ages 12 to 18.