March 1, 2011
Gr 3-6-These classic stories have been given a modern graphic-novel update, making them fresh for new audiences. Ali Baba tells the story of a poor man who happens upon a secret cave filled with treasure, protected by a band of robbers. When his brother tries to take riches from the cave, he is killed by the 40 thieves, who then turn their attention to putting an end to Ali Baba. In Sinbad, the famous sailor recounts his miraculous travels to a beggar before giving him the riches to set out on his own adventures. While the stories move quickly, liberties are taken with details of the stories. This extreme abridgement occasionally leads to some confusion. Back matter, including a brief history of the original story, discussion questions, writing prompts, and a glossary, provide classroom-connection opportunities. The artwork is as comics-inspired as it gets-all dramatic poses and forced perspective. These interpretations may succeed in introducing Ali Baba and Sinbad to new readers. While they aren't without fault, they serve their purpose.-Travis Jonker, Dorr Elementary School, MI
Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
November 15, 2010
Grades 3-5 In this adaptation of the classic story, part of the Graphic Revolve series, Ali Baba is a poor man who stumbles upon a hidden cave where a band of thieves hides its loot, opening the cave with the phrase open sesame and closing it with close sesame. When he brings some of the treasure home, his greedy brother, Kasim, finds out and forces Ali Baba to tell him everything; but the thieves discover Kasim in their cave and kill him. When they hunt after Ali Baba, it takes the courage and cunning of the servant girl Marjana to save Ali Baba and his family. Osnayas stylish art and Mannings story combine to make a dynamic comic book. The violence of Kasims death and Marjanas method of dealing with the hidden thieves doesnt occur in the panels, but readers will understand exactly what is happening. Back matter includes information about The Arabian Nights, real hidden treasures, a glossary, and discussion and writing prompts, but young readers will care mostly that this is simply a great adventure story.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)