The Fitter, Happier UnLibrarian's Blog of Young Adult Books

by Megan DeTour
LIBR 265-10 Materials for Young Adults
Spring 2009, Professor Wrenn-Estes
Master of Library & Information Science
San Jose State University, California

The Illustrated Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte and Dame Darcy (Illustrator)

The Illustrated Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte and Dame (Illustrator)

Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Publish Date: September 2006
ISBN: 0142005142
Page #: 560pp
Reading Level: Adult
Classification: Graphic Novel
Genre: Classic/Historical Fiction

Subjects: 19th Century, Boarding School, British, Gothic, Romance, Secrets, Oppression, Orphans, Victorian

Annotation:

Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre is re-told through neo-Victorian ink illustrations by Dame Darcy.

Summary:

Dame Darcy brings the Gothic elements of Jane Eyre to life in her lavishly detailed illustrations. The story of Jane Eyre is about a poor and plain-orphaned girl who lives in a household with her hateful aunt. Jane grows up miserable and emotionally starved, and lonely. She jumps at the chance to attend boarding school and gain an education. With the help of a solid education, she goes to seek employment as a governess and becomes enchanted with her employer, Mr. Rochester. Jane and Mr. Rochester share a romantic relationship until a horrible secret tears them apart, forcing Jane back into poverty and isolation.

Megan says:

Dame Darcy's stunning artwork sets the tone brilliantly for Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, which is one of my favorite classic novels. Readers who have already read Jane Eyre will appreciate the the illustrated version as will first time readers. Though this graphic novel was not intended for young adults, I think they will love seeing this classic novel told visually as well as literally. I wish I would have had this when I was in high school.

Stars: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★