Manga Classics is doing it right. The Scarlet Letter is the second Manga Classic book (Great Expectations was first), and I enjoyed re-reading this classic book in a much easier format.
I love how fast and easy to read these Manga Classics adaptations are. They are perfect for reluctant readers, those that don't like to read, those that struggle reading the classic literature, ESL students in high school that are still learning the language, and anyone wanting to try classic literature in a different format. These books are great; I'm a fan!
This Manga Classics adaptation of The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne gets 4 out of 5 Stars in my book review.
I clearly liked this book. I liked the adaptation and felt it stayed true to the original story including the themes and the feelings of the book. I liked the illustrations as well; I felt the consistent black and white illustrations except for the stark red/scarlet A on Hester was perfect and so well done.
There were a few aspects of the text that were confusing and the illustrations that were a bit odd and/or creepy to me. At times the story, which can be a little confusing, seem to jump a bit, and the beginning with Hawthorne finding the manuscript seemed unnecessary. In regards to the illustrations, I realize they were done to depict more depth to the characters and to aide in the deeper themes, but at times the pictures came across as creepy or even little Pearl for example being far too extreme or even frightening with her mood swings.
All in all, this graphic novel is a great alternative and supplement to Hawthorne's classic story, The Scarlet Letter that kids 7th grade and up will enjoy and benefit from. If you have a kid who has to read this book for a school assignment, but your child struggles to read then give this adaptation a read.
Just for extra reasoning to the awesomeness of this book, Amazon has the following book review from School Library Journal:
"In 17th-century Puritan Boston, acts deemed a sin were severely punished. For the crime of adultery, Hester must bear her shame upon her chest in the form of a scarlet A. Even when society denounces her and her daughter, she holds her head high and refuses to reveal the name of her child's father. It is her husband who eventually discerns the truth, and by causing Reverend Dimmesdale's guilt to fester, he poisons his own heart. Visually, this manga adaptation of the classic is stunning. Hawthorne's text translates to this format perfectly, and readers will be able to infer the characters' internal struggles from this emotive art. Manga rarely has color, yet here, among these theatrical screentones, the letter A glares back in accusatory crimson. Close-ups of this crest best exemplify the finely detailed line art found throughout. Hester's principles, acknowledgment of her sin, and ability to endure the judgment and hypocrisy of others is worthy of admiration. Even in this more modernized narrative, the spirit of Hawthorne's eloquent language remains. VERDICT Thanks to this faithful and accessible adaptation, this classic's tale of love, sin, and the strength of a single mother will reach a whole new audience."
Give these Manga Classics a go; they are pretty awesome!
Happy Classic Literature Reading Done far Easier and Faster!
I received this book from Myrick Marketing in exchange for my honest review and opinion of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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