Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street: The Graphic Novel: QuickText

Gr 10 Up—Based on the original installment of the Sweeney Todd saga that appeared in 1846/'47 in The People's Periodical and Family Library, these graphic novels bear little resemblance to the story as it unfolded as a stage musical and movie with which many readers will be familiar. Basics of the story-murderous barber disposes of victims' bodies in Mrs. Lovett's meat pies-are there, but much of the rest of the narrative will be unfamiliar. Told in a leisurely manner, the action and suspense build to a satisfying conclusion. The illustrations follow comic rather than manga conventions, and the coloring is muted and atmospheric, befitting both the time period and subject matter. The lettering is clear and easily read in both the original and modern English versions. The language of the Victorian original will appeal only to strong readers, whereas the modern English version is much more accessible to a general audience. Even so, this is a graphic novel that will have limited appeal due to the subject matter, and it is a stretch to call it a classic, unlike the titles in the rest of the series. Purchase is strictly additional, unless there is a demand for all types and genres of graphic novels.—Suanne Roush, Osceola High School, Seminole, FL