This series condenses Shakespeare plays into comic-book format. Though much is cut, the texts use Shakespeare's dialogue. The adaptations cram so much onto each page that they lose both the dramatic effect and the visual potential of many scenes. Midsummer's copious green fairy dust and Hamlet's pink-clad waif of an Ophelia are more cartoonish than captivating.

DUNN, Rebecca , adapt. William Shakespeare's Hamlet illus. by Ben Dunn. ISBN 978-1-60270-188-5 LC 2008010742. FARRENS, Brian , adapt. William Shakespeare's King Lear illus. by Ben Dunn. ISBN 978-1-60270-189-2 LC 2008010739. ea vol: 48p. (Graphic Shakespeare Series). glossary. Web sites. CIP. ABDO/Magic Wagon/Graphic Planet 2008. PLB $19.95. Gr 5-9 Each book opens with a list of characters and a description of the setting. Background information, a short synopsis, famous phrases from the play, and a biographical sketch of Shakespeare are also included. Described as titles for reluctant readers, each slim volume is written in large-sized font and includes full-color illustrations covering between two to five panels per age. All dialogue has been extracted from the original play, which exposes readers to Shakespearean language. Explanatory text boxes judiciously placed throughout the panels enhance readers' understanding of characters, actions, and events. With substantial front and back matter, these adaptations seem best suited for instructional purposes. Additional explanation, discussion, and further reading may be required if young readers are to understand the Shakespearean phrases and interlocking plots as well as the subject matter of these plays: madness, human suffering, suicide, revenge, and murder. However, the books will serve as introductions to the Bard for older, reluctant readers. Dunn's illustrations for Hamlet and King Lear were done in a straightforward style and have rich, dramatic colors. Espinosa's use of a limited color palette for A Midsummer Night's Dream suits the moonlight setting. This adaptation's inclusion of Puck's rhyming introduction to the characters is a delightful addition. Barbara M. Moon, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY