The Time Machine

Wells, H.G. The Time Machine (Graphic Revolve). Stone Arch Books (2007). ISBN 978-1-5988-9889-7

Plot Summary

                The Time Traveler graphic novel is an illustrated, condensed version of H.G. Wells classic novel.  The Time Traveler is talking to his dinner guests about how he has made a device capable of transporting a person through time.  He proceeds to demonstrate and sends himself forward in time to 802,701 A.D. where he meets the Eloi.  They are a passive people who don’t seem to care about anything.  The Time Traveler saves a girl from drowning, Weena, because no one else seems to care. 

When The Time Traveler goes back for his machine, it’s gone and he it looks to have been dragged into a nearby building.  When it is dark, Morlocks appear.  They are threatening, ape-like creatures who only come out at night.  The Time Traveler goes into their lair, narrowly escaping them, to find his machine.  On the way, he sees the small bones of the Eloi and realizes that the Elois are food for the Morlocks.  After making this disturbing discover, The Time Traveler is transported back to his time, only a few hours after he originally left.  He shows some flowers to his guests, which do not grow on the Earth at present, and they realize he actually did travel into the future.

Critical Evaluation

                I’d never read The Time Traveler so I’m not sure how the story holds up.  However, for the graphic novel just standing alone, this was a great read.  The illustrations were full color, very vibrant and eye catching.  The story was interesting and coherent.  The story was aided by the illustrations in a great way.

Reader’s Annotation

Take a trip in the time machine, where humans are food and gigantic creatures will steal your machine and try to kill you.

Author’s Information

H.G. Wells started reading when he broke his leg and never stopped, even once he was out of bed.  He is one of the most well-known science fiction writers being the author of such books as The War of the Worlds and The Invisible Man.  A biography of his can be found here: http://www.online-literature.com/wellshg/.

Genre

Graphic Novel

Book Talking Ideas

I’d ask if anyone has always hated having to read “the classics” in school.  Then I’d show them the graphic novel version which gives them the basic storyline of the classic without so many pages or words.  Plus, this version is illustrated and the pictures take up way more space than the words.  And the entire graphic novel is a wonderful, time travelling adventure.

Reading Level/Interest

10/15

Challenge Issues

I see no challenge issues with this title.

Why Include This Title?

This is a good example of the new forms that are being used in today’s youth literature.  A classic novel being made into a graphic novel is indicative of where YA materials are headed and, while the novels do have merit still, these graphic novels are a medium all their own.