11 Timeless Classics Reimagined as Graphic Novels

While reading brings joy to countless individuals, tackling a centuries-old classic can feel overwhelming due to its antiquated language and dense prose. This challenge is particularly pronounced for younger audiences. Fortunately, many of these enduring literary treasures have been transformed into graphic novels (or comic books), offering a more accessible and visually captivating experience. These adaptations infuse fresh vitality and stunning illustrations into beloved tales, providing even seasoned readers with a fresh outlook. Below, we’ve curated a list of 11 standout examples.

1. A Wrinkle In Time // Madeleine L'Engle and Hope Larson; $13

The story of Meg Murry, Charles Wallace Murry, and Calvin O’Keefe was masterfully reimagined in a graphic novel by acclaimed cartoonist Hope Larson (Batgirl) in 2012. This adaptation, though condensed, captures the essence of Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time through Larson's ethereal and imaginative illustrations. Her unique artistic style breathes new life into the beloved tale, offering even the most devoted readers a fresh and captivating interpretation.

2. The Odyssey // Homer and Gareth Hinds; $15

The legendary voyage of King Odysseus returning home after the Trojan War has been retold in numerous ways, but artist and writer Gareth Hinds found a fresh approach to present this timeless tale as a graphic novel. The dramatic encounters with Poseidon and his cyclops son, Polyphemus, are vividly depicted, enhanced by stunning watercolor visuals that make the story more accessible to younger audiences compared to Homer's original poetic rendition.

3. Jane // Charlotte Brontë, Aline Brosh McKenna, and Ramón K. Pérez; $25

In 2017, screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna (The Devil Wears Prada) collaborated with Eisner Award-winning artist Ramón K. Pérez (Tale of Sand) to craft a modern reinterpretation of . This adaptation follows Jane as she leaves her rural hometown to pursue art school in New York City, only to discover that her aspirations come with unexpected challenges. To sustain herself in the costly city, she becomes a nanny for a young girl named Adele. As Jane grows close to Adele’s father, she is drawn into the hidden complexities of the city’s affluent society. McKenna’s witty writing complements Pérez’s vibrant, cartoon-inspired illustrations, creating a captivating narrative.

4. To Kill A Mockingbird // Harper Lee and Fred Fordham; $18

Harper Lee's iconic novel To Kill a Mockingbird, which follows Scout and her brother Jem as they grapple with the racial and social divides in their Alabama town, has been masterfully adapted by Fred Fordham. This graphic novel retains Lee's powerful prose while seamlessly condensing the narrative. Fordham's illustrations capture both the innocence of childhood curiosity and the harsh realities of injustice, making this adaptation an ideal introduction for younger readers to this timeless story.

5. The Great Gatsby // F. Scott Key Fitzgerald, Fred Fordham, and Aya Morton; $17

Fred Fordham once again demonstrates his skill as an adapter, bringing the iconic characters of The Great Gatsby—Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, and Daisy Buchanan—into the graphic novel format. Fordham preserves much of F. Scott Fitzgerald's original dialogue, allowing fans to revisit their favorite lines, now vividly illustrated by Aya Morton. The soft, evocative watercolors perfectly capture the essence of the Jazz Age, and the 200-page adaptation offers a quick yet deeply engaging reading experience.

6. Anne Frank's Diary // Anne Frank, Ari Folman and David Polonsky; $16

Artist David Polonsky and writer Ari Folman, renowned for their award-winning work on Waltz with Bashir, have created a poignant adaptation of The Diary of a Young Girl. Known for their ability to depict harrowing historical events with striking visuals, the duo brings Anne Frank's definitive diary to life. Folman, fresh from completing an animated children's film about Anne Frank, skillfully integrates key quotes and moments, emphasizing the profound struggles she faced. Paired with Polonsky's evocative artwork, this adaptation offers a deeply moving and accessible version of a story that remains essential reading.

7. Animal Farm // George Orwell and Odyr; $13

The oppressed animals of a farm rise up against their human master, sparking a rebellion that leads to the creation of a new society. While their vision initially appears utopian, corruption and greed soon distort their ideals. Writer and illustrator Odyr brings George Orwell's Animal Farm to life with striking visuals and simplified language, preserving the novel's powerful message while making it more accessible for younger audiences.

8. Marvel Classics // Various; $92

This expansive collection includes a dozen classic stories, brought to life by Marvel's top talents from the 1970s, including Uncanny X-Men legend Chris Claremont, Doug Moench, and Bill Mantlo. These tales are reprints from Marvel Classics Comics, a series that blends iconic literature with Marvel's dynamic comic book artistry. Readers can enjoy vibrant adaptations of The War of the Worlds, Ivanhoe, Treasure Island, The Odyssey, A Christmas Carol, and more.

9. Frankenstein // Mary Shelley and Gris Grimly; $18

Renowned children's book author and illustrator Gris Grimly, celebrated for his macabre reinterpretations of classic fairy tales, has long cited Frankenstein's monster as a key influence. In this adaptation, Grimly blends Mary Shelley's original text with his distinctive gothic steampunk aesthetic. The result is a hybrid of comic book and prose novel, offering a timeless yet uniquely stylized retelling of Frankenstein that reflects Grimly's creative vision.

10. Pride and Prejudice // Jane Austen, Laurence Sach, and Rajesh Nagulakonda; $17

This graphic novel adaptation of Pride & Prejudice condenses Jane Austen's Regency-era masterpiece into approximately 100 pages, skillfully crafted by writer Laurence Sach and artist Rajesh Nagulakonda. Sach simplifies the dialogue and streamlines the Bennet sisters' story while preserving the essence that has endeared the novel to generations. Nagulakonda's vibrant illustrations infuse the characters with fresh vitality, making this edition a delightful choice for both newcomers and longtime fans of Austen's work.

11. The Hobbit // J. R. R. Tolkien, Charles Dixon, and David Wenzel; $17

David Wenzel's artistry vividly captures the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien in this graphic novel adaptation of The Hobbit. With its vibrant palette and whimsical landscapes, this version of Middle-earth contrasts with the darker tones of Peter Jackson's films. Writer Chuck Dixon remains faithful to Tolkien's original narrative, while this re-issue of the 1989 comic includes a refreshed cover and six additional illustrated pages. At just 133 pages, it’s a concise yet faithful tribute to The Hobbit's spirit as a thrilling adventure for younger readers.