The Handmaid's Tale

Contributed by Anna, gr. 11, May 2019

Mystery. Murder. Women’s rights. All of these elements combine to make an enthralling graphic novel adaptation of the classic Canadian novel The Handmaid’s Tale. The first few pages drew me in with its artwork and mysterious setting. 

I strongly suggest this graphic novel for those who have read the literary novel, in order to achieve a deeper understanding of the important message that is conveyed through the compelling artwork. The color symbolism throughout the novel easily displays status in an unspoken way that cannot be achieved in a written novel. 

If you enjoy unsettling plot components and are concerned about the possible future for women, I think that you will benefit from reading this thrilling graphic novel adaptation.

The Giver

Contributed by Darian, gr. 11, May 2019

Some books, such as science fiction and mystery novels are often well-fitted to be translated into graphic novels, and this stylized and amazingly illustrated graphic version of The Giver truly brings out and captures the elements of this novel that make it so unique, relevant, and astonishingly absolute. 

The author, P. Craig Russell, uses a blue and silver palette for most of the novel, a great choice, as the colors bring out a more solemn and almost bland look to the world, almost as if its colors were drained. The illustrations are well -rafted, with each character popping out of the page with their expressive actions; each drawing flows with the narrative and somehow brings the same feeling as if you were reading a whole novel in text. 

P. Craig Russell’s adaptation of Lois Lowry’s novel is one that both newcomers of the book, and experienced readers of her work will enjoy, and be captivated by the visual storytelling.