Monday, December 15, 2014

The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents: Macbeth by Ian Lendler –ESSENTIAL

Lendler, Ian and Illustrated by Giallongo, Zack The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents: Macbeth GRAPHIC NOVEL 80 pgs. First Second, 2014. $12.99 Content: Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G Violence: PG
At night the animals of the Stratford Zoo keep themselves entertained by putting on plays. Tonight’s presentation is Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The proud lion Macbeth is so wonderful and life is perfect, until one day he gets bored. Then after a visit with some witches, he gets the idea that if he eats the king he can become the king. He eventually gets to the task, which sets of a series of events, including more eating of other creatures to keep them quiet, and of course, more than a touch of insanity!
This is a fantastic version of Macbeth, which makes the story interesting and fun for young readers. Honestly I think this is a great way to prepare students to reading the actual works when they are older. The interjections from animals in the audience are hilarious. This book was laugh out loud funny in many places. The illustrations are top notch, featuring lots of action and variety, as well some great facial expressions. This has been one of my favorite graphic novels this year. I think upper elementary students will love this book.

EL -ESSENTIAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.

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