Dark Tales: Beauty and the Beast – Graphic Novel Review

We are all familiar with the tale of Beauty and the Beast. That’s why I was looking forward to seeing what Dark Tales: Beauty and the Beast (A Modern Retelling) graphic novel from Canterbury Classics brought to the table. And I have to say, I was quite impressed.

I was provided a copy of Dark Tales: Beauty and the Beast for review. The opinions are my own. 

This graphic novel is an adaptation of Jeanne-Marie Leprince’s version of the folktale. The illustrations are by Pete Katz. Also, Pete Katz, in his introduction, tells you the reason behind adding a villain to this version. Said villain is in the form of a demon living in Beast’s castle. The demon wakes up every year to capture the soul of whoever is living in the castle. This graphic novel also has Beauty’s two siblings.

Yes, I know, this version sounds different from what many might be familiar with, and that’s what made it enjoyable for me.

Here’s the official synopsis:

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

This modern retelling of the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast is told here in a graphic novel format. More than 100 pages of illustrated action, adventure, and love teach a lesson to look beyond the surface and learn to love what’s underneath. A merchant takes shelter in a castle during a thunderstorm, and ends up striking a bargain with its beastly master. His youngest daughter, Beauty, returns to the castle to live in exchange for a restoration of the family’s previous wealth. Beauty befriends Beast, but longs to see her family again. He allows her to visit her former home, but when she doesn’t return at the designated time, consequences ensue.

Another thing I liked was the agency Beauty has in this modern retelling, which you can also figure out from her pose in the main cover. The ending doesn’t have a typical conclusion. I really don’t want to give any spoilers and ruin the fun.

The art by Pete Katz is beautiful and has a very enchanting look to it. However, I feel the Beast could have been drawn a bit scarier, but that’s just me.

If you are looking for an enjoyable Beauty and Beast retelling of Jeanne-Marie Leprince’s version, then you should consider picking up this graphic novel.

Feel free to share your thoughts with us.

Author: Farid-ul-Haq

Farid has a Double Masters in Psychology and Biotechnology as well as an M.Phil in Molecular Genetics. He is the author of numerous books including Missing in Somerville, and The Game Master of Somerville. He gives us insight into comics, books, TV shows, anime/manga, video games, and movies.

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