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Review: Metamorphosis (Graphic Novel)

Title: Metamorphosis
Author: Franz Kafka (adapted by Peter Kuper)
Genre: Fiction/graphic novel
Pages: 79
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

FTC Disclosure: I checked this book out from my library
Challenges: Graphic Novel Challenge (#2)
and Graphic Novel Mini-Challenge (January)
Summary: (from the inside flap): When Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from disturbing dreams, he found himself transformed. Acclaimed graphic artist Peter Kuper presents a brilliant, darkly comic re-imagining of Kafka's classic tale of family, alienation, and a giant bug. Kuper's electric drawings--which merge American cartooning with German expressionism--bring Kafka's prose to vivid life, reviving the original story's humor and poignancy in a way that will surprise and delight readers of Kafka and graphic novels alike.

Review: I am participating in the Graphic Novel Challenge and the January mini-challenge, sponsored by Teresa, was to read a classic in graphic novel format. I read Metamorphosis a LONG time ago so this was a fun way to re-read it. The story that Kafka wrote really lends itself to vivid images and Peter Kuper captured the ideas fabulously. I could feel the angst, the heartache, the absurdity of the situation are all very well portrayed. This book would be a great way for reluctant readers to read a classic and understand it.

5 comments

Aarti said...

I like how classics are being remade in other formats. I think it's fun. I really liked Metamorphosis when I read it in high school. I felt so bad for the main character, and now that I think of it- I agree with you that the story lends itself to a graphic format! Great choice.

Nina said...

I havent read the book, but it sounds like a good read. :) I don't know if my library has this one, but i am for sure going to look for it.

Thanks for the review.

Nicole (Linus's Blanket) said...

I have been looking for some worthwhile graphic novels to read. I started with a Nancy Drew but I need something a little more substantial. A classic like this might do the trick.

John Mutford said...

I've been wanting to read Metamorphosis for sometime, but rarely make time for novellas. A graphic novel adaptation might be just what I need.

Amanda said...

Ooh, Metamorphosis is one of my favorite stories so I definitely need to get my hands on this adaptation!