As with any good Austen story, the romance is really one of the character features. Although we don't really lose the basic story, I thought it was interesting that it feels a little washed out in the graphic novel sense. I think it might be the descriptions I missed here, even though the dialogue pretty much stayed in tact. Not much is lost in the story, but is obviously centered around conversations and thoughts.
The pictures are soft and pastel, with pretty rounded edges and crisp outlining. There is a comic element to this that you can't miss, but I think that the brightness and seemingly soft quality to the frames gives it a soothing, happy tone that propels you through the familiar tale. Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this graphic version. I'm a bit more partial to the Pride and Prejudice version, if only because of the stronger focus on a few characters instead of the many we get in this tale. The story is still all there though and a treat to read (and view) in this graphic form. I hope Nancy Butler pens a few more great classics!
*FTC Disclosure: Review is based on a library copy of the book.
A much softer look than the version of P&P. In that one, I was really bothered and distracted by the modern look of the girls and my inability to distinguish one from the other. This one looks much more true to the time - perhaps I need to give Austen graphic novels another chance!
ReplyDeleteI love the image of Marianne and Elinor on the cover! That's exactly how I picture them in my head.
ReplyDeleteLisa--I don't remember that modern twist, but I will just admit that I was glad it wasn't the sharp lines I've seen in some graphic novels. You'll have to check it out and tell me what you think! :)
ReplyDeleteHeidenkind--It really is a cute picture of them. This was a weighty read though, which I thought was interesting.