The Great Gatsby: A Graphic Novel Adaptation
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The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that The Great Gatsby: A Graphic Novel Adaptation, captures the energy of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic Jazz Age novel. Author/illustrator K. Woodman-Maynard takes a more abstract approach to the art. There's little violence -- a hit-and-run car accident, a murder/suicide. The adult characters flirt, kiss, and have affairs. Swearing is limited to an instance of "God-damn." The party scenes feature drinking and smoking.
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Interesting read, not convincing enough for me
What's the story?
As this graphic adaptation of THE GREAT GATSBY begins, Nick Carraway moves into a boarding house next to a huge mansion owned by millionaire Jay Gatsby. Gatsby is a mysterious figure -- no one knows how he made his money -- but they don't mind attending his fabulous, booze-soaked parties. Nick learns that Gatsby is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan, a neurotic socialite married to brutish bigot Tom Buchanan. Gatsby wants to rekindle his romance with Daisy and forces Nick into acting as their go-between. The lovers think they can return to the past, but tragedy awaits as they embark on their selfish pursuits.
Is it any good?
Not every classic lends itself to a successful comics adaptation, and this version of the Jazz Age masterpiece often feels stiff and slightly off the mark. Author/illustrator K. Woodman-Maynard's graphic adaptation of The Great Gatsby hits all the expected beats and illustrates the story in lovely watercolors. She uses unusual spaces for captions and dialogue and sometimes leans toward the abstract. Though not a substitute for the original novel, this comics version is likely to spur many readers to explore F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterwork, which can only be a good thing.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about The Great Gatsby and its themes about the American Dream. What is the American Dream? Do people still believe in it?
Why does Gatsby think he can regain Daisy's love? What is the danger of hungering for the past?
Is Nick a reliable narrator? Do you agree with his interpretation of events?
How are African Americans and Jewish people depicted in the book? What kinds of disparities have worsened since the 1920s?
Book details
- Authors: F. Scott Fitzgerald, K. Woodman-Maynard
- Illustrator: K. Woodman-Maynard
- Genre: Graphic Novel
- Topics: Book Characters, Friendship, History
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Candlewick Press
- Publication date: January 5, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 14 - 18
- Number of pages: 240
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: January 5, 2021
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