Kidnapped

by Fiona Macdonald, Penko Gelev, Robert Louis Stevenson

A world-famous classic novel is the basis for this brand-new, dramatically illustrated book. Transformed from Robert Louis Stevenson's original text into a graphic novel, this, like other " Graphic Classics " editions, makes a good introduction for young readers to the imaginative riches of literature. These books contain many extra features, including brief biographies of their authors, a list of each author's important works, a glossary, and an index. Suitable for classroom use as introductions to literature for junior and senior high school students, these graphic novels entertain young readers while introducing them to the works of renowned literary artists. Full-color illustrations throughout. In " Kidnapped, " The young orphan David Balfour is kidnapped and forced to work aboard a sailing ship. He and his shipmates soon encounter shipwreck, which is just the first of their exciting adventures.

48 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2007

About the author

Fiona Macdonald studied history at Cambridge University and at the University of East Anglia. She has taught in schools, adult education and university, and is the author of numerous books for children on historical topics.

Reviews

[H (trying to keep up with GR friends) Balikov · Rating 4 out of 5]

But what to my wondering eyes should appear but the graphic version of RLS’s Kidnapped!

This has long been considered a “children’s classic” but it reflects an important period in British history after the “Jacobite Revolution” of 1745. This is another era of dispute of royal succession and it is also at the heart of the Church of England versus the Church of Rome dispute that dates from the time of Henry VIII.

Stevenson’s tale is about David Balfour, a teenager who is the rightful heir to his parents estate but is tricked into going on a ship that will carry him to the far reaches of the planet.

If you find that you aren’t up to reading the original novel, then this is a good choice for several reasons:
The graphic renditions are both well-executed and helpful.
Each chapter is given 12 to 18 separate frames.
The words are mostly the original ones with footnotes to explain the context or the archaic language.

There are several helpful additions including a thumbnail sketch of each character; a biography of Stevenson; a map showing where each significant event takes places; a summary of the historical context of this period and a timeline.

The graphics by Penko Gelev capture the mood and the period.
Well done!

[Kalen · Rating 2 out of 5]

A quick read but it was very jumpy and I think a lot of explanations were left out.

[Catherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is more of a summary but may help a student who needs to read Kidnapped.

[StrictlySequential · Rating 3 out of 5]

->Make sure not to skip the stuff in the back<-