Classic literature comic books at Manila International Book Fair

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila International Book Fair will be carrying a selection of classic literature turned into beautifully illustrated comic books, from Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 to William Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

Fahrenheit 451: The Authorized Adaptation (By Ray Bradbury; adapted by: Tim Hamilton) – Tim Hamilton’s illustration of the book’s dystopic universe using very gritty, and psychedelic art styles is dark and disturbing, making the book’s universe almost tangible. The color palette used highlights the culturally muted social landscape in which the story was set.

City of Glass (By Paul Auster; adapted by: Paul Karasik and David Mazzucchelli) – This adaptation makes perfect use of minimalist art using a simple black and white palette. Rather than becoming dull, the black and white gives the book a nourish feel that is perfect for Paul Auster’s philosophical detective story.

Metamorphosis (By Franz Kafka; adapted by: Peter Kuper) – Peter Kuper illustrates this story of transformation through the use of old-style cartoon type art. The exaggerated black and white art style gives the story a bold boost.

I Am Legend (By Richard Matheson; adapted by: Steve Niles and Elman Brown) – Better than the Will Smith movie adaptation, this comic book adaptation by Steve Niles and Elman Brown was able to show what the movies could not. The art uses a scratchy and wood-cut style but proves to be a very efficient in setting the mood for the story of the last man on earth.

Divine Comedy (By Dante Alighieri; adapted by: Seymour Chwas) – The artist employs a simple black and white art style but gives the characters, Dante and Virgil, a modern twist. Dante sports a trench coat and sunglasses, while Virgil wears a fedora and spectator shoes as they ascend to Heaven, descend to Hell, and go through Purgatory.

King Lear (By William Shakespeare; adapted by: Ian Pollock) – Students will no longer surrender trying to understand Shakespeare’s words when Ian Pollock’s illustration make it look like Tim Burton was the art director of the comic book. The adaptation employs a colorful and fantastical childish art that is very enjoyable to look at.

Pride & Prejudice (By Jane Austen; adapted by: Marvel) – Part of the many Marvel classics in their series, the adapted Pride & Prejudice is tastefully abridged to fit a graphic novel format. Illustrated by fan-favorite Hugo Petrus, the art of the comic books stays true to the descriptions in the book. The colors and art style also greatly complement the story.

The MIBF runs from Sept. 16-20 at the SMX Convention Center, Seashell Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. MIBF is organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc. in partnership with Asian Catholic Communicators, Inc., Book Development Association of the Philippines, Philippine Booksellers Association, Inc., and the Overseas Publishers Representatives Organization of the Philippines. For details, call 896-0661 or 896-0682, or e-mail bookfair@primetradeasia.com.