Treasure Island With Lots of Dogs

Description

Treasure Island With Lots of Dogs

Written by Frank B. Edwards
Illustrated by John Bianchi

Treasure Island has appeared in many forms since Robert Louis Stevenson wrote it as a serialized adventure in 1881, but no one has ever approached it like cartoonist and dog-lover John Bianchi.

By portraying Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver and the rest of the crew as dogs, Bianchi has created a funny and truly memorable version of this beloved classic that directs a knowing wink toward the adventure books of a bygone era.

Much to my surprise, the outer walls of the stockade had been left unguarded, and I could hear the snores of my sleeping shipmates in the unlit blockhouse. Wishing not to disturb them, I crept quietly inside and curled up in a corner. I was asleep within seconds and dreaming of home until a rough paw shook me awake.

“So, young Hawkins, you decided to sign on with us after all,” coughed a familiar voice. “Well, I think we can put you to good use.”

And, with a deep growl, Long John Silver gave me a hard poke with his crutch while a leash was slipped over my head.

Of course, Jim Hawkins survives many twists and turns of fate before recovering the lost treasure and defeating the mangy pirates in this wonderfully rich tale of adventure on the high seas. Treasure Island keeps readers on the edge of their seat right up to the last page.

Bianchi captures the flavour of N.C. Wyeth’s classic adventure illustrations while author Frank B. Edwards adds a witty narration that blends tradition with double-dog entendres. Their beautiful book offers young readers an entertaining introduction to a timeless tale of pirates and treasure. It also serves to introduce young readers to the concept of chapter books as each double-page spread functions as a complete segment, complete with an entertaining painting.

32 pages. 14 full-page illustrations and 15 vignettes
Softcover
14 chapters. 3,500 words
Reading level: Grade four to eight
Interest level by age: 8 to adult