April Book Blog – Accessible classics
10 Classic stories retold
Stories which can be classed as classics can be challenging reads as they are often complex tales
and were originally written using unfamiliar vocabulary. Taking a classic and reinventing it in a
different format and with modern language can introduce it to a whole new audience. Classic
stories from famous authors such as Shakespeare and Jane Austen have all been retold in a variety
of ways, here are some to get you started.
Great Expectations The Graphic Novel: Original Text Adapted by Jen Green from Charles
Dickens
Age 10 and up
Dickens’ classic story of Pip, the orphan, is retold as a graphic novel. The story itself is partnered
with information about Dickens and the historical information about Victorian era.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (Campfire Graphic Novels)
Age 11 and up
For two hundred years Jane Austen’s story of grand country estates, beautiful women and men of
good fortune has delighted readers. Now retold in graphic novel format you too can see if you are
immune to the Darcy effect.
Jane Eyre retold by Maggie Pearson
Age 10 and up
Charlotte Bronte’s story of a young girl who takes the job of governess at Thornfield Hall is given a
new lease of life by Maggie Pearson. Jane thinks she has finally found happiness but there are
secrets in Mr Rochester’s past and they refuse to stay buried.
Short, Sharp, Shakespeare Stories: The Tempest by Anna Claybourne, illustrated by Tom
Morgan-Jones Age 8 and up
A storm at sea, an enchanted island a magician’s daughter and a handsome prince can all be found
in The Tempest. Shakespeare’s play is retold as a story and in modern English. The book also
contains information about Shakespeare himself and the main themes of the play.
Hermes Tricks the Gods by Geraldine Mccaughrean, illustrated by Tony Ross
Age 8 and up
Hermes is up to no good again and it is going to end badly for Apollo and Halcyone. Geraldine
McCaughrean has created an action-packed and punchy retelling featuring a host of well-known
Gods and Goddesses.
Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales - Marcia Williams Age 8 and up
Marcia Williams has taken many well-known stories and retold them using her distinctive comic
strip style. In this collection nine of Chaucer’s famous characters are brought to life in a lively witty
way which can be enjoyed by all.
The Greatest Adventures in the World: Beowulf the Hero by Tony Bradman and Tony Ross Age
8 and up
Grendel the monster kills groups of Chief Rothgar’s men each night. Can Beowulf defeat Grendel
and bring peace to the land? Tony Bradman gives this ancient story a modern makeover with the
help of Tony Ross’s drawings.
Aesop’s Funky Fables by Vivian French, illustrated by Korky Paul
Age 6 and up
Catchy rap rhythms have been used by Vivian French to bring new life to some of Aesop’s fables.
Korky Paul’s drawings guarantee that you will see these famous, historic fables in a new light.
Livewire Graphics: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley adapted by Philip Page and Marilyn Pettit
Mary Shelley’s classic horror novel is re-imagined in graphic novel format. Follow the story of a
young scientist who creates a living being from dead flesh and bone, and then realises the mistake
he has made.
Outlaw: the true story of Robin Hood by Michael Morpurgo
Age 9 and up
Robin Hood is a hero whose tale has been told many times across the centuries. Michael
Morpurgo is the perfect author to retell this classic story of good men challenging an evil sheriff.