The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents: Macbeth by Ian Lendler

Synopsis: As the title implies, this graphic novel is indeed a rendition of Macbeth, as performed by animals. Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies about a power hungry man in Denmark who wants to be king and will do almost anything to get the job. This version is no different, except for in place of brutal Shakespearean murder, there is the circle of life (animals eating other animals)...

Intended Audience: Grades 2-5, those interested in graphic novels, animals, and learning about Shakespeare

But it might also appeal to: Middle school students who might better be equipped for the animals eating animals bloody parts, adults and teens who are familiar with the original might enjoy this goofy spoof on Shakespeare’s classic.

Strengths: The illustrations are stunning and the writing makes Shakespeare’s story much easier to understand. For those who understand it, the parody is quite funny as well.

Weaknesses: It is hard to know what this book would be like for someone who hasn’t read (or taught!) Macbeth. Not sure that the story would be as entertaining for those without prior knowledge of the original.

Special considerations: Based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth, some references might be lost on a younger audience, some bloody scenes where animals eat other animals, could be used as a companion text to the original in a high school classroom.

Verdict: The Stratford Zoo’s version of Macbeth would add a new element to any elementary media center: a book about Shakespeare! Given the level of most Shakespearean plays, most students don’t interact with them until high school--or perhaps late middle--but this book allows for an easier access point and introduction to the author. It would also be a great addition to a high school media center where it might be accessed alongside the classic play.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

Synopsis:  The Invention of Hugo Cabret is a mysterious graphic novel about a young boy living in a Paris train station. He is an orphan and steals from local vendors to survive, but he is working on a project--a secret project--that no one can find, so he must be careful, but then someone catches him stealing…

Intended audience: Children ages 9-12, readers who like graphic novels, mysteries

But it might also appeal to: Adults, children younger than nine reading it with an adult, or teenagers interested in graphic novels, mysteries, mechanical toys, Paris or history.

Strengths: The book is almost exactly 1/2 illustrations and 1/2 text, which allows for a stronger reader to have a more visual experience, while a reader who appreciates comics and graphic novels will have an immediate "in." The mystery keeps the audience's attention to the very end.

Weaknesses: While the artwork is stunning, it is limited to black and white which was slightly disappointing. The language of the text, while mostly simple, does include a bit of challenging lingo related to the keeping of clocks and other mechanical contraptions. In this case, an adult reader who could "translate" might be helpful to a younger reader.

Special considerations: This is a physically LARGE book, which could be intimidating to a reader who has traditionally read shorter chapter books, however the actual text takes up very little space on the page and reads quickly when partnered with vivid images. There is also a film, which could be used for a comparison/contrast activity. There is also quite a bit of historical context in the novel that could serve extension opportunities for students.

Verdict: This magical novel would be an excellent addition to a elementary, middle or high school library has it has the potential to reach a wide variety of readers interested in art, poetic writing, mystery and interesting characters.