Treasure Island: Puffin Graphic Classics

When Jim Hawkins uncovers the key to a pirate’s treasure map he sets out on a quest to find the buried treasure with the help of pirate captain Long John Silver. Artist Tim Hamilton brings the pirates and villains to life in this graphic novel adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic.

While going through the possessions of a deceased guest who owed them money, the mistress of the inn and her son find a treasure map that leads them to a pirate's fortune. Includes illustrated notes throughout the text explaining the historical background of the story.

Set sail to the heart of adventure with cabin boy, Jim Hawkins, aboard the legendary scoundrel, Captain Long John Silver. A secret treasure map becomes the key to heart-pounding thrills, danger and swashbuckling action as a boy faces the high seas and the grandest pirate of all in the adventure of a life time.

George Galuschak - KLIATT

Treasure Island is a tale made for graphic adaptation. Young Jim Hawkins meets the old sea-hand known as the Captain at his parents' inn. The Captain wishes to avoid his old mates, but soon enough the summons comes—the dreaded Black Spot. The Captain drops dead where he stands, bloodthirsty pirates overwhelm the inn, and Jim and his mother barely escape with their lives. The pirates are seeking the Captain's treasure map (which Jim took with him), showing where the booty he murdered six men for lies. Soon Jim is on the high seas, seeking Treasure Island. Unfortunately, the ship's crewmen (led by Long John Silver) are all pirates, and mutiny and murder ensue. Reading this graphic novel made me want to read the original book. It moves quickly; it is loaded with action, and young Jim is a likable protagonist. What surprised me is that Long John Silver, a thief and a murderer, is also likable; he is a charming fellow who has a real liking for Jim. The b/w artwork is gritty and realistic—Mr. Smith used human models for his pirates (his facial expressions are particularly impressive), and he makes great use of light and shadow. Contains depictions of violence and lots of pirate swears (yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum!). Highly recommended for libraries with graphic novel collections. KLIATT Codes: JSA*—Exceptional book, recommended for junior and senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2005, Penguin, Puffin Graphics, 176p. illus., Ages 12 to adult.

The Victorian poet and novelist Robert Louis Stevenson once said, "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant." The author of the magical A Child's Garden of Verses and the chilling The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Stevenson indeed planted powerful literary seeds -- that grew into undisputed classics.