Macbeth

Reviewed by: Jill O'Connor - North Yarmouth Academy Library, Yarmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: August 11, 2015

Review

Macbeth is the original “Game of Thrones” and this adaptation with its sumptuous illustrations with an earthy color palette and just the right amount of red engages the reader almost as much as Martin’s compelling fantasy series. In an author note, Hinds explains that he used much of Shakespeare's text unchanged though he did have to cut words in an effort to keep the length manageable and to keep the flow of the story clear. Shakespeare in graphic novel format can be a helpful tool to those struggling with the original text. The use of speech bubbles and drawn characters can aid in understanding in a unique and engaging way. With text cut into panels and in proper conversational order, the story of the doomed king is given fresh life. There are many rich visuals incorporated by Hinds (from symbols to shadows) thereby challenging the reader to truly "read" the pictures. A historical note and notes on the text round out this fantastic graphic adaptation.

Overall Book Score: very good