Blogging from A-Z

Jane Eyre, the graphic novel. Finished 4-10-13, rating 5/5, classics/graphic novels, 141 pages, pub. 2009

I love Jane Eyre.  It’s been many, many years since I read the classic, but over the years I’ve watched as many of the film adaptations as I can fit in.  As much as I love Jane I have a more lukewarm response to graphic novels.  I’ve only read a few but none have really wowed me.  But, this one was the perfect combination of a favorite heroine, quality storytelling, and illustrations that felt authentic to the original story.  In this version they use Bronte’s own words to tell the story.  Here’s a look at one of my favorite passages of the orignal…

For those that don’t know, Jane was left in the care of a cold aunt and abusive cousin. Her spirit remained even through years at a school for orphans and the death of a friend.  When she arrives, as a governess, at Thornfield she blossoms, only her troubles are far from over.

Amy Corzine did a great job with the storyboard.  This complex story that follows orphan Jane from Gateshead Hall to Lowood School to Thornfield and beyond is well represented in its 140 pages.  I think it perfect for Jane lovers.  As a fan I never felt shortchanged.  There is also a Quick Text version that uses the same art but simplifies language, but I can’t vouch for that one.

There is a very interesting biography of Charlotte and her gifted, but tragedy-stricken family.  I found it fascinating.  Also a few pages in the end showed how they put the book together.

Whether you are a fan already or just want to know about Jane without having to read the book, I recommend this wholeheartedly.  I plan on checking out a few more of these graphic novels.  They are very well done.  I had this one on my shelves.