Graphic Classics: Robert Louis Stevenson (Graphic Classics (Eureka)) [Paperback]

Robert Louis Stevenson (Author), Mort Castle (Author), Michael Slack (Author), Simon Gane (Author), Lance Tooks (Author), Maxon Crumb (Author), Various (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 29, 2004 | Series: Graphic Classics (Eureka) (Book 9)

The ninth volume in the Graphic Classics series includes comics adaptations of "The Bottle Imp", "The Suicide Club" and a unique two-part interpretation of "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde" by Simon Gane and Michael Slack. Plus a fantasy by Fannie Van de Grift Stevenson, a special feature by Robert and Maxon Crumb and a collection of R.L. Stevenson's short fables and poems, with art by Lance Tooks, Esao Andrews, Roger Langridge, Shary Flenniken, Hunt Emerson, Johnny Ryan, Michael Manning and more.

Editorial Reviews

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

Product Details

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Eureka Productions (June 29, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0974664804
• ISBN-13: 978-0974664804
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,240,872 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #49 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Literature & Fiction > Authors, A-Z > ( S ) > Stevenson, Robert Louis

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Recommended to the attention of graphic novel enthusiasts, August 10, 2004

By 

Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Graphic Classics: Robert Louis Stevenson (Graphic Classics (Eureka)) (Paperback)

Graphic Classics is a deservedly acclaimed series of graphic novel treatments of famous literary works. The latest volume is dedicated to timeless stories by Robert Louis Stevenson and includes graphic novel adaptations of "The Bottle Imp", "The Suicide Club", and an original two-part interpretation of "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde", along with a fantasy by Fannie Van de Grift Stevenson, a specially feature by Maxon Crumb, and a collection of R.L. Stevenson's short fables and poems enriched by some of the best and most provocative artists working today. The Graphics Classics anthology edition of Robert Louis Stevenson is confidently recommended to the attention of graphic novel enthusiasts and underground comix fans.

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars All the old romance, retold, June 9, 2005

By 

Zack Davisson "japanreviewed" (Seattle, WA, USA) - See all my reviews
(HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)    (VINE VOICE)    (2008 HOLIDAY TEAM)    (TOP 100 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Graphic Classics: Robert Louis Stevenson (Graphic Classics (Eureka)) (Paperback)

"Treasure Island" is probably the first thing that springs to mind from hearing the name Robert Louis Stevenson. "Kidnapped," "Black Arrow" and other classic tales of high adventure sprung from his pen, leading more than one child to desperately wish for a one-eyed Pirate to stroll into his life. But like his other famous creation, Dr. Jekyll, Stevenson had his darker face, and some tales not so happy.

It is this darker side at play in "Graphic Classics: Robert Louis Stevenson." In the same vein as the Edgar Allen Poe and HP Lovecraft collections, Stevenson is presented in his justifiable role as a master of the weird tale, at play in the fields of the human psyche. Fitting collaborators have been found for each story, lending new elements and insight to the already insightful tales.

Included in this volume are:

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - The key tale of this collection, and a brilliant adaptation. Two artists are given reign, with a transformation of art as Mr. Hyde takes over. The basics of this story are as familiar as Dracula and Frankenstein, but I had never actually read the authentic original until now.

Verses and Fables - Taking from Stevenson's vast collection of poems and short stories, this is a showcase of erotic, fantastic and sometimes brutal fables. "The Land of Nod" is a poem I have loved since I was a child, but didn't know it was Stevenson. "Now Bare to the Beholders" eye is a seductive poetic striptease, with gorgeous illustrations.

A Brief Literary Life - As in other collections, a brief illustrated biography of Stevenson. Full of witty illustrations and references.

The Suicide Club - A dark tale of bored dilettantes seeking excitement, who wind up with more than they bargained for. An evil game of chance and men who seek death.

The Crumb Brothers on Treasure Island - Maxon Crumb tells the true tale of how Stevenson famously influenced the comic legends Robert and Charles Crumb. Included in Robert Crumbs "Treasure Island Days."

The Nixie - A beautifully illustrated fairy tale. Haunting and poetic.

The Bottle Imp - A sweet and dangerous cautionary tale about the dangers of getting what you wish for, and playing with magic. Illustrated to take full use of the Hawaiian influences of the story. Very enjoyable.