As a child, I devoured The Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner, so when I found the graphic novel version of The Boxcar Children by written by Eric Denton and illustrated by Mike Dubisch, I knew I'd have to give it a try. The graphic novel I selected is based upon the first book in The Boxcar Children series.
Although the graphic novel is a very abbreviated adaptation of the book, it was enjoyable to read. I think this format is for a new generation of readers and reading this version might encourage children to read the original book.
The illustrations in this book are pleasing to the eye and the dialogue is reminiscent of Warner's version. Eric Denton was able to tell the story in a way that remained true to the original and included all the key details.
In case you have never read The Boxcar Children, it is about four siblings who have been orphaned. They've never met their rich grandfather and believe that he might not like them. They decide to live life together, independently from adults, and raise themselves. The four Alden children get named the boxcar children because they discover an old boxcar and set up house in it. Unbeknownst to them, their grandfather, James Henry Alden, is in search of them and desperately wants to find them. Will they finally cross paths? I heartily encourage you to read this book to find out!
Pixie's Thoughts:
Bow wow! This book was short, sweet, and easy to read. I loved it when the Alden's adopted a little dog and named him "Watch." It reminded me of when Mom adopted me. What a happy day! This is a book I could read again and again! The story will never get old to me!
Classroom Applications:
If you have students who become avid readers of The Boxcar Children, either the graphic novel or the chapter books, you can guide them to promote the books in your classroom through the creation of book trailers, posters, book talks, or speed booking. Your classroom might catch boxcar fever. I have to warn you, though, that there is no cure for this ailment!
The Boxcar Children Website
The Gertrude Chandler Warner Boxcar Children Museum
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