America's foremost storyteller and fabulist provides a smorgasbord of possibilities for graphic novel interpretations in this solid entry in the Graphic Classics series. Sixteen artists and writers interpret nine Twain works, ranging from novels, such as The Mysterious Stranger, and short stories, such as "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County," to the brief satire "Advice to Little Girls." Twain tales and insights aren't sanitized in the adaptations, which would make the author happy, indeed. Lance Tooks' story stands out; he uses the great power of image to script and draw "A Dog's Tale," ably highlighting the metaphor between dog and slave that Twain eloquently related in his writing. In whole or in part, these samples from the American literary canon offer much not only to readers but also to artists and observers of American culture's foibles.

Gr 10 Up-This second edition of the out-of-print eighth volume in the series was revised to include stories omitted earlier, such as Advice for Little Girls: If your mother tells you to do a thing.It isbetterto intimate that you will do as she bids you, and then afterward act quietly in the matter according to the dictates of your best judgment. This gem, illustrated by Shary Flenniken, shows a cheerful young girl quite successfully selling beer at the lemonade stand her mother set up for her. Each piece is illustrated by a different artist, ensuring eight original takes on the material. Is He Living Or Is He Dead?, adapted and illustrated by Simon Gane, explores and manipulates the idea of society finding value in artists and poets only after they have labored in obscurity and died starving. The story seems fresh here, with period art used to good advantage. The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County, adapted and illustrated by Kevin Atkinson, and the comics premiere of Tom Sawyer Abroad are also included. The latter is adapted by Pomplun and illustrated by George Sellas in a style well suited to the story. The books colorful, kinetic covers (the interior art is black and white) are irresistible. The literature is accessible to readers of all abilities, leaving them wanting more. Dana Cobern-Kullman, Luther Burbank Middle School, Bur-bank, CA