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Watership Down
Watership Down: The Graphic Novel
Win a free print copy of this book!
2 days and 19:57:41
15 copies available
U.S. only
A beautiful and faithful graphic novel adaptation of Richard Adams’s beloved story of a group of rabbits on an epic journey in search of home.
“Every rabbit that stays behind is in great danger. We will welcome any rabbit who joins us.”
Watership Down is a classic tale of survival, hope, courage, and friendship that has delighted and inspired readers around the world for more than fifty years. Masterfully adapted by award-winning author James Sturm and gorgeously illustrated by bestselling artist Joe Sutphin, this spectacular graphic novel will delight old fans and inspire new ones, bringing the joy of Watership Down to a new generation of readers.
“Every rabbit that stays behind is in great danger. We will welcome any rabbit who joins us.”
Watership Down is a classic tale of survival, hope, courage, and friendship that has delighted and inspired readers around the world for more than fifty years. Masterfully adapted by award-winning author James Sturm and gorgeously illustrated by bestselling artist Joe Sutphin, this spectacular graphic novel will delight old fans and inspire new ones, bringing the joy of Watership Down to a new generation of readers.
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2023
About the author
James Sturm
55 books117 followersJames Sturm is the author of several award-winning graphic novels for children and adults, including James Sturm’s America, Market Day, The Golem’s Mighty Swing and Satchel Paige: Striking Out Jim Crow. He is also the founder of the Center for Cartoon Studies and the National Association for Comics Art Educators. He created Adventures in Cartooning with collaborators Alexis Frederic-Frost and Andrew Arnold. Sturm, his wife, and two daughters live in White River Junction, Vermont.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/jamess...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/jamess...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 449 reviews
May 29, 2023
Loved it, sincerely and wholeheartedly.
It’s hard to explain why the seemingly simple story of a ragtag bunch of rabbits setting on a dangerous odyssey through English countryside has burrowed its way into my heart ever since I was a child and not only held up but got even better on each and every one of quite a few rereads. But capture my heart it did, and I regret nothing.
This graphic novel adaptation of Watership Down does the novel justice. It’s lovely, keeping a lot of Richard Adams’ text and condensing the story enough while still keeping the spirit of it. Just look at this art, simply beautiful and just absolutely perfect for the feel of the story, the lovely countryside that is the world of the rabbits, which at any moment can become quite a terrifying place in an eyeblink.
Can it be read without knowing Richard Adams’ novel? Well, yes — but for Frith’s and El-Ahrairah’s sake, why would you? It’s perfect for the fans of the original story, but for the newcomers I’d suggest to also read the original book to appreciate everything more. Because let me tell you - I’m a certified superfan of Watership Down (Bigwig and Hazel, you are my dream team!) and this looked exactly how I’d ever imagine the story, and if you love the original, I can’t fathom you not loving this as well.
(Oh, and if you have watched the 1978 British cartoon adaptation and was terrifyingly traumatized by Woundwort/Bigwig fight, you’re in luck. Ok, just kidding — it’s just as terrifyingly brutal as you remember, but awesomely so. I mean, fluffy bunnies, right? Right?)
(And just like in the original, you didn’t need any translation here to know exactly what Bigwig means when he tell Woundword to “Silflay hraka” :)
Easy 5 stars. It joins Slaughterhouse-Five, or the Children's Crusade and To Kill a Mockingbird: A Graphic Novel as another adaptation done right.
——————
Thanks to NetGalley and Clarkson/Potter/ Ten Speed Press for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
——————
Also posted on my blog.
It’s hard to explain why the seemingly simple story of a ragtag bunch of rabbits setting on a dangerous odyssey through English countryside has burrowed its way into my heart ever since I was a child and not only held up but got even better on each and every one of quite a few rereads. But capture my heart it did, and I regret nothing.
This graphic novel adaptation of Watership Down does the novel justice. It’s lovely, keeping a lot of Richard Adams’ text and condensing the story enough while still keeping the spirit of it. Just look at this art, simply beautiful and just absolutely perfect for the feel of the story, the lovely countryside that is the world of the rabbits, which at any moment can become quite a terrifying place in an eyeblink.
Can it be read without knowing Richard Adams’ novel? Well, yes — but for Frith’s and El-Ahrairah’s sake, why would you? It’s perfect for the fans of the original story, but for the newcomers I’d suggest to also read the original book to appreciate everything more. Because let me tell you - I’m a certified superfan of Watership Down (Bigwig and Hazel, you are my dream team!) and this looked exactly how I’d ever imagine the story, and if you love the original, I can’t fathom you not loving this as well.
(Oh, and if you have watched the 1978 British cartoon adaptation and was terrifyingly traumatized by Woundwort/Bigwig fight, you’re in luck. Ok, just kidding — it’s just as terrifyingly brutal as you remember, but awesomely so. I mean, fluffy bunnies, right? Right?)
(And just like in the original, you didn’t need any translation here to know exactly what Bigwig means when he tell Woundword to “Silflay hraka” :)
Easy 5 stars. It joins Slaughterhouse-Five, or the Children's Crusade and To Kill a Mockingbird: A Graphic Novel as another adaptation done right.
——————
Thanks to NetGalley and Clarkson/Potter/ Ten Speed Press for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
——————
Also posted on my blog.
December 25, 2023
An epic tale of violence, survival, and badass rabbits running rampant, Watership Down is an absolute knock-out. While you may already have been scarred for lifes seeing the animated adaptation too young as a kid, this classic tale has once again been given a new visual life in an incredible graphic novel format, adapted by James Strum and gorgeously illustrated by Joe Sutphin. So now you too can be haunted by this scene:
The artwork here is simply divine and the adaptation successfully maintains the integrity of the original story without having to sacrifice much while also complimenting the uneasy vibes with its visual medium. I love the way the pastoral scenes and rather breezy landscapes and scenery contrasts with the moments of violence and trauma and the pacing of the frames and excellent balancing of dialog makes this completely impossible to put down. You feel all the dread building and the sudden moments of violence strike so well. This truly is a marvelous adaptation.
This story is metal as hell
I recently read the original story and reviewed it here if you are looking for a proper review of the narrative as I’ll try to keep this focused just on the graphic adaptation and perhaps an improper review of how completely awesome this story is. After having set myself up for disappointment reading a graphic adaptation of a book I super loved earlier this month, I was going to wait to read this so as not to nitpick every difference but then noticed that one of my favorite graphic novelists, Tillie Walden, said this sets a new bar for graphic adaptations. Okay FINE, I will trust Walden and was right too do so because this really does hold up. Of course I’d encourage anyone to read the actual novel and this will make a great companion piece, but this would also read just as well for those experiencing the story for the first time. Of course there are things cut out or condensed but for the most part you won’t feel lacking. A lot of the lore had to be cut but the key tales are retained during storyteller scenes—especially the Black Rabbit going and committing some mass murder after being impressed by how hardcore El-ahrairah was trying to spread pestilence with nary an ear or tail left on him—and the cool rabbit language, Lapine, is still there with a glossary of key terms.
The Black Rabbit of Inle is as scary as you assumed he would be
This is great from start to finish and I was so impressed by the art. It manages to get a lot across emotionally despite a very limited expression range on the rabbits due to trying to maintain a more realistic style. Eyes wide in fear work quite well hear and Cowlip looks as outright creepy as that little shit should be:
So whether you be a fan, familiar with the story, or a complete newcomer, this graphic adaptation is a great choice. Great art, great adaptation, and just a great story all around. Instead of noticing all the differences with this from the novel, I just kept realizing I loved this story even more than I thought I had. Tillie Walden was correct, this does set a high standard for adaptations. I loved every gorgeously illustrated frame.
4.5/5
The artwork here is simply divine and the adaptation successfully maintains the integrity of the original story without having to sacrifice much while also complimenting the uneasy vibes with its visual medium. I love the way the pastoral scenes and rather breezy landscapes and scenery contrasts with the moments of violence and trauma and the pacing of the frames and excellent balancing of dialog makes this completely impossible to put down. You feel all the dread building and the sudden moments of violence strike so well. This truly is a marvelous adaptation.
This story is metal as hell
I recently read the original story and reviewed it here if you are looking for a proper review of the narrative as I’ll try to keep this focused just on the graphic adaptation and perhaps an improper review of how completely awesome this story is. After having set myself up for disappointment reading a graphic adaptation of a book I super loved earlier this month, I was going to wait to read this so as not to nitpick every difference but then noticed that one of my favorite graphic novelists, Tillie Walden, said this sets a new bar for graphic adaptations. Okay FINE, I will trust Walden and was right too do so because this really does hold up. Of course I’d encourage anyone to read the actual novel and this will make a great companion piece, but this would also read just as well for those experiencing the story for the first time. Of course there are things cut out or condensed but for the most part you won’t feel lacking. A lot of the lore had to be cut but the key tales are retained during storyteller scenes—especially the Black Rabbit going and committing some mass murder after being impressed by how hardcore El-ahrairah was trying to spread pestilence with nary an ear or tail left on him—and the cool rabbit language, Lapine, is still there with a glossary of key terms.
The Black Rabbit of Inle is as scary as you assumed he would be
This is great from start to finish and I was so impressed by the art. It manages to get a lot across emotionally despite a very limited expression range on the rabbits due to trying to maintain a more realistic style. Eyes wide in fear work quite well hear and Cowlip looks as outright creepy as that little shit should be:
So whether you be a fan, familiar with the story, or a complete newcomer, this graphic adaptation is a great choice. Great art, great adaptation, and just a great story all around. Instead of noticing all the differences with this from the novel, I just kept realizing I loved this story even more than I thought I had. Tillie Walden was correct, this does set a high standard for adaptations. I loved every gorgeously illustrated frame.
4.5/5
May 28, 2023
Because I haven't read Richard Adam's classic, all impressions I state here are strictly about the graphic novel, I can't draw any comparisons between the novel and this adaptation.
The first impression was that this is a story I'd probably have liked better when I was younger and more attuned to enjoying anthropomorphic stories on their own merit. That doesn't necessarily mean I disliked the anthropomorphic aspect of this story, only that I'm perhaps more desensitised to it and it doesn't appeal or speak to me the way it would have when young. I have enjoyed other anthropomorphic stories as an adult, "Maus," "Animal Farm," etc., but those had a symbolism and metaphors that were easy to spot and understand.
Which leads to my first issue with this graphic novel: I can't see whatever metaphors or messages it was supposed to deliver. It's simply a story about and with rabbits. Now, before you come tell me the gazillion interpretations of this story from parable to allegory to political thesis, I would kindly remind you that this isn't the novel and most likely there's nuances that simply couldn't be put in illustration. For all I know, this story's message is glaringly obvious in the book. But it isn't in this graphic novel. Not that I could see it, and I tried very hard. I even looked up what the author had said his story was about, and everywhere I looked, he'd say the same: it's simply a story about rabbits, it's not meant to be a parable or anything else. His daughters, for whom he created this story, say the same in interviews: It's just a story.
Which is fair, there's nothing wrong with just a story about rabbits. But here we circle back to my first point that, if so, I'm past the age when I'd appreciate just a story about rabbits best. At my age, I need more than just that. All the children's books I love, anthro or not, have something more. I love Ferdinand because I can see the metaphor quite clearly even though it's written like just a story about a bull. But if I don't see the metaphor in "Watership Down" clearly, then it means whatever it is will be one that comes from others' interpretation projected onto it rather than from my own reading of the story. And from what I can see, this isn't exactly lacking in interpretations.
Could it be the fact that this is an adaptation without input from the author? Very possible. James Sturm does admit in the author's notes that there's been omissions from novel to graphic adaptation and that there are cuts in terms of characters and scenes, as well as changes he had to made to fit the visual medium.
So let's judge it as "just a story," then. The beginning, when Hazel and Fiver decide to lead the rabbits from their warren into a new land to escape danger is confusing, and very slow. We don't know what the danger is, and we won't know till much later, through flashbacks at that, so for the majority of the first half, all you get is rabbits running and running, and having adventures. Whether you'll find these adventures interesting will depend on your age and tastes, and they didn't suit mine. It's overlong and boring, and the only saving grace was that I rather liked Hazel, whom I initially mistook for a girl rabbit. Hazel, and to a lesser extent Bigwig, were the only characters I cared about, because the rest of the rabbits were forgettable and could be lumped into one single rabbity blob, even Fiver.
Then the story starts to get darker, once the rabbits stop running aimlessly and find a place they want to dwell in in safety. They're faced with challenges that come not from men, the rather predictable and mostly faceless "danger" they had been running from originally, but from other animals. They find two warrens of rabbits, one wild and complacent and bloated, and another aggressive and dictatorial, and things finally become interesting. This was the part I liked best, it was the best-written and better paced part. And when the final stand at the underground warren when the Efrafa rabbits attack Hazel's people, I was really engrossed and almost deflated when I thought my favourite bit the dust.
Long story short: first half mediocre, second half good.
The art is another thing that saves this adaptation. It's beautifully done, and the main rabbits have distinctive features: Hazel's lines are softer (which is why I thought he was a girl rabbit) and his fur is slightly lighter, Fiver has the Crazy Prophet face of a madman, Bigwig has a gruff Clint Eastwood aura, General Woundwort looks like a big bully, and so on. The artist took care to not make all look rabbits indistinguishable, which is appreciated. The artwork delineates the characters better than the writing does, I'd hazard to say.
In conclusion, as a story about rabbits, it does stand on its own. It might be a tad too dark and bloody for what one is used to expect from anthropomorphic stories with animals one associates with harmlessness and cuteness, but that also can be a sell for audiences that like their cute a bit bloodied.
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The first impression was that this is a story I'd probably have liked better when I was younger and more attuned to enjoying anthropomorphic stories on their own merit. That doesn't necessarily mean I disliked the anthropomorphic aspect of this story, only that I'm perhaps more desensitised to it and it doesn't appeal or speak to me the way it would have when young. I have enjoyed other anthropomorphic stories as an adult, "Maus," "Animal Farm," etc., but those had a symbolism and metaphors that were easy to spot and understand.
Which leads to my first issue with this graphic novel: I can't see whatever metaphors or messages it was supposed to deliver. It's simply a story about and with rabbits. Now, before you come tell me the gazillion interpretations of this story from parable to allegory to political thesis, I would kindly remind you that this isn't the novel and most likely there's nuances that simply couldn't be put in illustration. For all I know, this story's message is glaringly obvious in the book. But it isn't in this graphic novel. Not that I could see it, and I tried very hard. I even looked up what the author had said his story was about, and everywhere I looked, he'd say the same: it's simply a story about rabbits, it's not meant to be a parable or anything else. His daughters, for whom he created this story, say the same in interviews: It's just a story.
Which is fair, there's nothing wrong with just a story about rabbits. But here we circle back to my first point that, if so, I'm past the age when I'd appreciate just a story about rabbits best. At my age, I need more than just that. All the children's books I love, anthro or not, have something more. I love Ferdinand because I can see the metaphor quite clearly even though it's written like just a story about a bull. But if I don't see the metaphor in "Watership Down" clearly, then it means whatever it is will be one that comes from others' interpretation projected onto it rather than from my own reading of the story. And from what I can see, this isn't exactly lacking in interpretations.
Could it be the fact that this is an adaptation without input from the author? Very possible. James Sturm does admit in the author's notes that there's been omissions from novel to graphic adaptation and that there are cuts in terms of characters and scenes, as well as changes he had to made to fit the visual medium.
So let's judge it as "just a story," then. The beginning, when Hazel and Fiver decide to lead the rabbits from their warren into a new land to escape danger is confusing, and very slow. We don't know what the danger is, and we won't know till much later, through flashbacks at that, so for the majority of the first half, all you get is rabbits running and running, and having adventures. Whether you'll find these adventures interesting will depend on your age and tastes, and they didn't suit mine. It's overlong and boring, and the only saving grace was that I rather liked Hazel, whom I initially mistook for a girl rabbit. Hazel, and to a lesser extent Bigwig, were the only characters I cared about, because the rest of the rabbits were forgettable and could be lumped into one single rabbity blob, even Fiver.
Then the story starts to get darker, once the rabbits stop running aimlessly and find a place they want to dwell in in safety. They're faced with challenges that come not from men, the rather predictable and mostly faceless "danger" they had been running from originally, but from other animals. They find two warrens of rabbits, one wild and complacent and bloated, and another aggressive and dictatorial, and things finally become interesting. This was the part I liked best, it was the best-written and better paced part. And when the final stand at the underground warren when the Efrafa rabbits attack Hazel's people, I was really engrossed and almost deflated when I thought my favourite bit the dust.
Long story short: first half mediocre, second half good.
The art is another thing that saves this adaptation. It's beautifully done, and the main rabbits have distinctive features: Hazel's lines are softer (which is why I thought he was a girl rabbit) and his fur is slightly lighter, Fiver has the Crazy Prophet face of a madman, Bigwig has a gruff Clint Eastwood aura, General Woundwort looks like a big bully, and so on. The artist took care to not make all look rabbits indistinguishable, which is appreciated. The artwork delineates the characters better than the writing does, I'd hazard to say.
In conclusion, as a story about rabbits, it does stand on its own. It might be a tad too dark and bloody for what one is used to expect from anthropomorphic stories with animals one associates with harmlessness and cuteness, but that also can be a sell for audiences that like their cute a bit bloodied.
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2024
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.
--Margaret Mead
I waited almost the entire Year of the Rabbit for the new graphic novel of WATERSHIP DOWN, but I did it, I got my hands on a library copy and read it this weekend, just three weeks shy of the Chinese Zodiac turning over to the Year of the Dragon.
I wasn't disappointed. James Sturm and Joe Suthpin, the author/illustrator team responsible for this graphic novel adaptation, took it seriously enough to travel to England to spend time with Richard Adams's two daughters, “whose intimate knowledge of WATERSHIP DOWN is unparalleled.” They also took hundreds of photographs and spent time in the English countryside where Mr. Adams was once inspired to create his famous novel.
The illustrations here are nothing short of outstanding. Most of us would probably jump at the chance to have pieces of this original artwork framed on our own walls, particularly any of the individual scenes of the woods and the striking woodland creatures (the owls, badgers and foxes being particular stand-outs for me).
I've read the original novel at least three times now, and nothing ever replaces the original, of course, but I do want to share that I had 2 fresh takeaways, inspired by this illustrated work.
First, this is a story of male friendships, a theme that, as far as I'm concerned, never has enough airtime in novels. Interestingly enough, the last book I read, Richard Bausch's THE LAST GOOD TIME, is also centered around a friendship between two men.
Second, this is a story about the importance of individual contributions and how they benefit a group. There was something special about seeing the characters illustrated while also learning about their particular contributions and skills. I think it makes this book an excellent choice for teens, as a coming of age story. Yes, our gifts do matter, and it is important that we share them with others.
In the final note from James Sturm, he mentions that Mr. Adams once wrote that rabbits have an “intuitive feeling that Life is Now.”
As we approach the next Lunar New Year on February 10, and we say goodbye to the humble hare and welcome in the daring dragon, let us not forget that gentle wisdom of the rabbit: “Life is Now.”
--Margaret Mead
I waited almost the entire Year of the Rabbit for the new graphic novel of WATERSHIP DOWN, but I did it, I got my hands on a library copy and read it this weekend, just three weeks shy of the Chinese Zodiac turning over to the Year of the Dragon.
I wasn't disappointed. James Sturm and Joe Suthpin, the author/illustrator team responsible for this graphic novel adaptation, took it seriously enough to travel to England to spend time with Richard Adams's two daughters, “whose intimate knowledge of WATERSHIP DOWN is unparalleled.” They also took hundreds of photographs and spent time in the English countryside where Mr. Adams was once inspired to create his famous novel.
The illustrations here are nothing short of outstanding. Most of us would probably jump at the chance to have pieces of this original artwork framed on our own walls, particularly any of the individual scenes of the woods and the striking woodland creatures (the owls, badgers and foxes being particular stand-outs for me).
I've read the original novel at least three times now, and nothing ever replaces the original, of course, but I do want to share that I had 2 fresh takeaways, inspired by this illustrated work.
First, this is a story of male friendships, a theme that, as far as I'm concerned, never has enough airtime in novels. Interestingly enough, the last book I read, Richard Bausch's THE LAST GOOD TIME, is also centered around a friendship between two men.
Second, this is a story about the importance of individual contributions and how they benefit a group. There was something special about seeing the characters illustrated while also learning about their particular contributions and skills. I think it makes this book an excellent choice for teens, as a coming of age story. Yes, our gifts do matter, and it is important that we share them with others.
In the final note from James Sturm, he mentions that Mr. Adams once wrote that rabbits have an “intuitive feeling that Life is Now.”
As we approach the next Lunar New Year on February 10, and we say goodbye to the humble hare and welcome in the daring dragon, let us not forget that gentle wisdom of the rabbit: “Life is Now.”
February 27, 2024
I picked up Watership Down a couple years ago, read perhaps a page, and quickly DNF'ed it. I did not want to read a book with rabbit conflict, knowing there was bound to be a lot of injury and/or death.
It's funny that reading a graphic novel with depictions of those injuries and death, complete with blood, wasn't very disturbing to me. My imagination is a whole lot more realistic and "graphic" than graphic novels. (I assume that's true for most people?)
Anyway, I can deal with the cartoons but not a book that has my brain creating movies with animals being hurt.
I thought the book was cleverly done and it was a quick read, though a lot of pages (almost 400 pages). The rabbits all looked unique - and adorable, even the "bad" ones.
There's not a lot of dialogue and I think it took a couple hours to read.
I'm glad to finally know the story and get it in a way I can handle. I'm loving graphic novels more and more!
It's funny that reading a graphic novel with depictions of those injuries and death, complete with blood, wasn't very disturbing to me. My imagination is a whole lot more realistic and "graphic" than graphic novels. (I assume that's true for most people?)
Anyway, I can deal with the cartoons but not a book that has my brain creating movies with animals being hurt.
I thought the book was cleverly done and it was a quick read, though a lot of pages (almost 400 pages). The rabbits all looked unique - and adorable, even the "bad" ones.
There's not a lot of dialogue and I think it took a couple hours to read.
I'm glad to finally know the story and get it in a way I can handle. I'm loving graphic novels more and more!
March 2, 2024
When I was a wee lad I came across the novel Watership Down and it gave me Bright Eyes, burning like fire.
I read the novel quite often and the libary told me I could not jog the book all the time. So I bought my first copy.
For me this book belongs to my all time favorites along with Frank Herberts Dune series and Tolkiens Lord of the Rings books.
So now there is a comic which tells the story of the original book albeit somewhat more condensed than the Richard Adams book. I love the original movie and its art too, which is quite a standaard to live up too.
This comic delivers in spades but does leave me wonder who is really the target audience?- For me the book was sheer recognition while I think that New readers should read the novel first.
I really enjoyed the comic and it Will look lovely on my bookshelves next to collectors editions of Dune and LOTR.
Great art and a brilliant tale about rabbits, so if you ask me Whats Up doc, I Will tell you to read this well made comic version of WD, but really read the book first.
I read the novel quite often and the libary told me I could not jog the book all the time. So I bought my first copy.
For me this book belongs to my all time favorites along with Frank Herberts Dune series and Tolkiens Lord of the Rings books.
So now there is a comic which tells the story of the original book albeit somewhat more condensed than the Richard Adams book. I love the original movie and its art too, which is quite a standaard to live up too.
This comic delivers in spades but does leave me wonder who is really the target audience?- For me the book was sheer recognition while I think that New readers should read the novel first.
I really enjoyed the comic and it Will look lovely on my bookshelves next to collectors editions of Dune and LOTR.
Great art and a brilliant tale about rabbits, so if you ask me Whats Up doc, I Will tell you to read this well made comic version of WD, but really read the book first.
March 22, 2024
The original book by Richard Adams is one of my favorites. James Sturm has done a marvelous job in turning it into a graphic novel. It's one of the great things to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic! Sturm writes in "Adapting Rabbits" at the end of the book:
"The COVD-19 pandemic coincided with the years I worked on adapting Watershed Down. Holed up in Vermont during these challenging and scary times, I felt it a gift to have Adams's resilient and plucky rabbits as my constant companions."
Favorite quote: "My heart has joined the Thousand, for my friend stopped running today."
"The COVD-19 pandemic coincided with the years I worked on adapting Watershed Down. Holed up in Vermont during these challenging and scary times, I felt it a gift to have Adams's resilient and plucky rabbits as my constant companions."
Favorite quote: "My heart has joined the Thousand, for my friend stopped running today."
March 29, 2024
I remember being very bored when I read the overlong original novel back in 1985, and the animated movie did nothing to improve my opinion of the story. But this graphic novel adaptation finally made me care about these rabbits and their desire to start a new life of liberty away from oppressive regimes and deadly predators.
It's a thick adaptation -- and heavy enough to give me a little back strain when I tried to read it while walking -- but the plot has been distilled down to the exciting bits and the art is lovely, managing to distinguish most of the large cast of rabbits from each other while still letting them look like real rabbits.
It's a thick adaptation -- and heavy enough to give me a little back strain when I tried to read it while walking -- but the plot has been distilled down to the exciting bits and the art is lovely, managing to distinguish most of the large cast of rabbits from each other while still letting them look like real rabbits.
Read
November 6, 2023A graphic retelling of the iconic novel. It hits all the highlights of Richard Adams' original narrative, and my one wish is that it will drive readers to the full novel, if only so they can enjoy the deep richness of the humor in the latter
"Ees finish Meester Voundvort, ya?"
"Ya," replied Hazel.
as well as Adams' wondrous descriptions of the scenery, especially Watership Down itself.
Although leaves remained on the beeches and the sunshine was warm, there was a sense of growing emptiness over the wide space of the down. The flowers were sparser. Here and there a yellow tormentil showed in the grass, a late harebell or a few shreds of purple bloom on a brown, crisping tuft of self-heal...Along the edge of the wood a sheet of wild clematis showed like a patch of smoke, all its sweet-smelling flowers turned to old man's beard...now the blue was high and rare, the sun slipped sooner to the west and, once there, foretold a touch of frost, sinking slow and big and drowsy, crimson as the rose hips that covered the briar.
Who can forget Kehaar once introduced to him? Or think of a car as anything other than a "hrududu" ever again? And a special shout out to the artists for shading El-ahrairah's ears with just the right touch of subtle starlight. It took Hazel a moment to recognize it and him, and me, too. And yes, I cried again at the end.
"Ees finish Meester Voundvort, ya?"
"Ya," replied Hazel.
as well as Adams' wondrous descriptions of the scenery, especially Watership Down itself.
Although leaves remained on the beeches and the sunshine was warm, there was a sense of growing emptiness over the wide space of the down. The flowers were sparser. Here and there a yellow tormentil showed in the grass, a late harebell or a few shreds of purple bloom on a brown, crisping tuft of self-heal...Along the edge of the wood a sheet of wild clematis showed like a patch of smoke, all its sweet-smelling flowers turned to old man's beard...now the blue was high and rare, the sun slipped sooner to the west and, once there, foretold a touch of frost, sinking slow and big and drowsy, crimson as the rose hips that covered the briar.
Who can forget Kehaar once introduced to him? Or think of a car as anything other than a "hrududu" ever again? And a special shout out to the artists for shading El-ahrairah's ears with just the right touch of subtle starlight. It took Hazel a moment to recognize it and him, and me, too. And yes, I cried again at the end.
December 1, 2023
Disclaimer: I haven't read the original, but I've seen the (very traumatizing) film as a kid. This is a review of the graphic novel and only the graphic novel
Characters (6/10)
They are all very well characterised, but there is little to no character development and side characters are often very one dimensional like "The smart one" or "the one making puns all the time"
Story (10/10)
Great line of plot. It was interesting to read. Don't know what to say other than that without spoilers
Concept (5/10)
It's a story about anthropomorphic rabbits. Yes it is very well made and it was made before anthropomorphic Fantasy really got a thing, but it isn't really unique as a concept.
Setting (10/10)
The world and culture of these rabbits get conveyed really well and the setting plays a huge role in the charm of the whole graphic novel
Themes (6/10)
Yeah there are themes about the destruction of nature or a critique of fascism. But (at least in the graphic novel) they don't get taken further than "this thing exists and is bad"
Execution (8/10
The pictures are beautiful but it is rather hard to distinguish the rabbits. Other critiques also say that much of the more subtle themes get lost in translation, which is something I can't really falsify without reading the original
Conclusion (9/10)
Good Book, would recommend
Characters (6/10)
They are all very well characterised, but there is little to no character development and side characters are often very one dimensional like "The smart one" or "the one making puns all the time"
Story (10/10)
Great line of plot. It was interesting to read. Don't know what to say other than that without spoilers
Concept (5/10)
It's a story about anthropomorphic rabbits. Yes it is very well made and it was made before anthropomorphic Fantasy really got a thing, but it isn't really unique as a concept.
Setting (10/10)
The world and culture of these rabbits get conveyed really well and the setting plays a huge role in the charm of the whole graphic novel
Themes (6/10)
Yeah there are themes about the destruction of nature or a critique of fascism. But (at least in the graphic novel) they don't get taken further than "this thing exists and is bad"
Execution (8/10
The pictures are beautiful but it is rather hard to distinguish the rabbits. Other critiques also say that much of the more subtle themes get lost in translation, which is something I can't really falsify without reading the original
Conclusion (9/10)
Good Book, would recommend
February 22, 2024
What a great adaptation of one of my favourite books over the last 45 years! The illustrations are fantastic and the classic story of rabbits moving from one warren to another moves along at a fast rabbits clip.
October 22, 2023
I love it SO MUCH. Definitely captures the spirit of the novel.
July 6, 2023
Watership Down is a classic tale about a society of rabbits and their adventures. I think this graphic novel is a wonderful addition. The artwork really brings the story to life. I haven't read the novel Watership Down but plan to add that to my list. I found the graphic novel to be engaging and heartfelt.
October 13, 2023
Okay, look. Look. I’ll consume anything Watership Down. I’ve read the book three times. I’ve read the sequel, “Tales From Watership Down,” just as much! I even read the semi-connected “Plague Dogs.” I’ve watched the original movie countless times (and the “Plague Dogs” movie once, as well). I’ve seen the Netflix series. I’m on a quest to find the 1999 Canadian series, as bad as I’ve heard it was. Hell, I just saw there’s an audiobook version of Tales and bought it in under a minute, holy crap, I’m PSYCHED.
Ahem.
What I’m saying is, I love Watership Down. I’ve got skin in the game. I have Opinions.
And my opinion is…this adaptation is GOOD. Faithful, first of all. No weird plot differences, all the regular characters, and I think just about every plot point. I can’t recall anything missing between the book and the graphic novel, and that’s impressive. A roughly 450 page book turned into a 380-ish page graphic novel, and nothign important was lost? Nice.
The art style is a bit reminiscent of the original movie, but with a more earthy, sketch-like quality. Not an unfinished quality, but something that feels more organic, a bit more wild. A good job was done to visually differentiate the rabbits, which can be difficult, which such a large cast. A few of the side characters can get a little samey, but you never mistake anyone important. I especially like how Hazel and Fiver, brothers, are quite similar, but can still be easily told apart. They’re related, not identical!
as with all good adaptations of this work, the artists didn’t shrink from the blood. These are some murderous rabbits!
I do think a good bit of the visual aesthetic of the comic was lifted from the original movie, but it’s more homage than tracing. After all, we’ve got pretty good descriptions of the characters and world from Adams. You can’t stray entirely from the source material. (I’m looking at you, 1999 version.)
So, look. If you love Watership Down, this HAS to go on your shelf. If you’ve ever been interested in reading the book, but it’s a bit intimidating, then the graphic novel will be a quicker, more accessible version. And I think it’ll be enough to tempt you into the full text.
But damn, do not give this to kids. Please, do not traumatize another generation!
…I mean. Not until they’re, like, 10 years old, at least. Got to show them some classic rabbit murder sometime!
Advanced reader copy provided by the publisher.
Ahem.
What I’m saying is, I love Watership Down. I’ve got skin in the game. I have Opinions.
And my opinion is…this adaptation is GOOD. Faithful, first of all. No weird plot differences, all the regular characters, and I think just about every plot point. I can’t recall anything missing between the book and the graphic novel, and that’s impressive. A roughly 450 page book turned into a 380-ish page graphic novel, and nothign important was lost? Nice.
The art style is a bit reminiscent of the original movie, but with a more earthy, sketch-like quality. Not an unfinished quality, but something that feels more organic, a bit more wild. A good job was done to visually differentiate the rabbits, which can be difficult, which such a large cast. A few of the side characters can get a little samey, but you never mistake anyone important. I especially like how Hazel and Fiver, brothers, are quite similar, but can still be easily told apart. They’re related, not identical!
as with all good adaptations of this work, the artists didn’t shrink from the blood. These are some murderous rabbits!
I do think a good bit of the visual aesthetic of the comic was lifted from the original movie, but it’s more homage than tracing. After all, we’ve got pretty good descriptions of the characters and world from Adams. You can’t stray entirely from the source material. (I’m looking at you, 1999 version.)
So, look. If you love Watership Down, this HAS to go on your shelf. If you’ve ever been interested in reading the book, but it’s a bit intimidating, then the graphic novel will be a quicker, more accessible version. And I think it’ll be enough to tempt you into the full text.
But damn, do not give this to kids. Please, do not traumatize another generation!
…I mean. Not until they’re, like, 10 years old, at least. Got to show them some classic rabbit murder sometime!
Advanced reader copy provided by the publisher.
June 6, 2023
Emotional and beautifully illustrated. I have never actually read Watership Down in its original form but it has moved up my TBR list now. Highly recommended! 💜
October 22, 2023
This beautiful graphic novel is a fine example of a great adaptation. The original award winning book written over fifty years ago captured the hearts and minds of America’s young. The story follows a group of wild rabbits as they leave an endangered warren and journey to establish a new home. Any time a book is adapted into a video or graphic novel it is a challenge to stay true to the spirit and mood of the original work. James Sturn has done a fine job of winnowing the elements to include in this adaptation. The story is told in a gentle manner and includes the basic story as well as many charming tales told by Dandelion the storyteller. The original author’s pastoral setting set in memorable prose has been captured by the enchanting muted earthtone illustrations by Joe Sutphin. He also varies his style so that Fiver’s nightmarish visions and Dandelion's brightly colored stories each appear in unique manners. Whereas the original novel was recommended for ages 12 and up, I think that this graphic adaptation can also be enjoyed by children a few years younger. I would encourage anyone in middle grade or older to spend a few hours reading this book. I think that it may lead readers to seek out the original to read more of Dandelion’s stories and Bluebell’s jokes. Anyone who remembers the original fondly will also appreciate this book.
I would like to thank Ten Speed Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this unbiased review are entirely my own and I highly recommend this fantastic adaptation.
I would like to thank Ten Speed Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this unbiased review are entirely my own and I highly recommend this fantastic adaptation.
August 5, 2024
I don't want it to be over!💖🥺
Writing: Five stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Illustrations: Five stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
~~~
Language: One use of the D word, used as in to 'condemn'. A few places where characters say 'What the...' but never finish.
Violence: Lots of fighting. This is a graphic novel so, the injuries are visible, it's not detailed at all, just red. Fiver has nightmares where he sees pools of blood, but again it's just drawn as red, no details. But if you are sensitive to the sight of blood, this might not be your cup of tea.
Magic: Nope.
This was an awesome graphic novel!!! I loved the BBC Watership Down series, but couldn't get through the original novel with my dyslexia, so when I heard this graphic novel was coming out, and that it was illustrated by my favorite illustrator, I got sooooooo excited!!! I've been waiting on this graphic novel for forever, and when it was on sale, (on my birthday too!) I had to snag a copy!!
Watership Down is such an interesting and wonderful concept! Rabbits fighting wars in the wild? Yes please!!! I love rabbits, so anything about rabbits, is right up my alley, and Watership Down does not disappoint! It's perfect!!!!💖👌👌🤩🤩
I will say, if you want to read this graphic novel you might want to read the original novel or watch the BBC series, there are a few parts that might be confusing if you don't have the original context. Tho the BBC series is a little different from the book, I haven't ever finished the original novel, and just with having watched the BBC series, I could keep up with the graphic novel very well. So of you want to read the graphic novel without reading the giant book, the BBC series is great, and very well done too! Definitely recommend!💖👌
All in and all, Watership Down is perfect for any rabbit lover! And this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, adds a perfect layer of wonder and awe to the original story!!
I can see many, many, many, re-reads in my future, this graphic novel, is perfection! Rabbits are my favorite thing to draw (as I started out drawing fanart for the Green Ember series) and now I have sooooo many awesome references!! The art style is just👌💖
10+
Writing: Five stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Illustrations: Five stars⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
~~~
Language: One use of the D word, used as in to 'condemn'. A few places where characters say 'What the...' but never finish.
Violence: Lots of fighting. This is a graphic novel so, the injuries are visible, it's not detailed at all, just red. Fiver has nightmares where he sees pools of blood, but again it's just drawn as red, no details. But if you are sensitive to the sight of blood, this might not be your cup of tea.
Magic: Nope.
This was an awesome graphic novel!!! I loved the BBC Watership Down series, but couldn't get through the original novel with my dyslexia, so when I heard this graphic novel was coming out, and that it was illustrated by my favorite illustrator, I got sooooooo excited!!! I've been waiting on this graphic novel for forever, and when it was on sale, (on my birthday too!) I had to snag a copy!!
Watership Down is such an interesting and wonderful concept! Rabbits fighting wars in the wild? Yes please!!! I love rabbits, so anything about rabbits, is right up my alley, and Watership Down does not disappoint! It's perfect!!!!💖👌👌🤩🤩
I will say, if you want to read this graphic novel you might want to read the original novel or watch the BBC series, there are a few parts that might be confusing if you don't have the original context. Tho the BBC series is a little different from the book, I haven't ever finished the original novel, and just with having watched the BBC series, I could keep up with the graphic novel very well. So of you want to read the graphic novel without reading the giant book, the BBC series is great, and very well done too! Definitely recommend!💖👌
All in and all, Watership Down is perfect for any rabbit lover! And this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, adds a perfect layer of wonder and awe to the original story!!
I can see many, many, many, re-reads in my future, this graphic novel, is perfection! Rabbits are my favorite thing to draw (as I started out drawing fanart for the Green Ember series) and now I have sooooo many awesome references!! The art style is just👌💖
10+
January 21, 2024
The illustrations are elaborate and beautiful! I am well past the mindset to enjoy this story, I guess. Not bad but not enthralled either.
July 30, 2024
Crying on the bus rn
August 15, 2024
Sturm and Sutphin’s adaptation of Adams’ iconic novel “Watership Down” is a beautiful and haunting work of art as we follow the harrowing journey of rabbits Hazel and Fiver who are attempting to lead their fellow rabbits from danger and into a new home. The striking illustrations perfectly capture the nature, adventure and suspense of their story. You’ll truly feel the spirit of the beloved novel in this flawless graphic novelization. A (100%/Outstanding)
July 2, 2024
I'm not really sure how to review this...lol...I loved it! But also, it's a graphic novel, so not told in words as much as pictures. But it was so good!
Illustrations:
The illustrations are beautiful! Joe Sutphin is my favorite Illustrator, and his work is beautiful! I loved every moment. The attention to detail is just astounding!
This is a book about rabbits fighting for survival, so some of the pictures do contain fights and blood that might be too much for sensitive readers, but they didn't both me.
The story:
Watership Down is a great book! I've listened to audible a few years ago... but this adds a layer of engagement with pictures that drew me in! I think I might have been confused in a place or two if I hadn't read the book, but overall, the graphic novel can stand on its own.
The characters, the story, all of it is beautiful! The illustrations compliment the story really, really well!
Language:
N/A
Overall:
I really loved this graphic novel and would definitely recommend it to kids age 10 and up because of the few panels near the end that contain blood.
Wouldn't want to traumatize the little bunnies lovers. That would be bad.
I'd also recommend, for help with context, that they watch the Watership Down mini series on Netflix. It's really good and follows the storyline pretty well... it would be a good thing to help fill in the blanks, the pictures, and text sometimes leave, and that way, they don't have to read the whole Watership Down book, which is pretty big. XD
Anyway, this is a great graphic novel adaption!
Illustrations:
The illustrations are beautiful! Joe Sutphin is my favorite Illustrator, and his work is beautiful! I loved every moment. The attention to detail is just astounding!
This is a book about rabbits fighting for survival, so some of the pictures do contain fights and blood that might be too much for sensitive readers, but they didn't both me.
The story:
Watership Down is a great book! I've listened to audible a few years ago... but this adds a layer of engagement with pictures that drew me in! I think I might have been confused in a place or two if I hadn't read the book, but overall, the graphic novel can stand on its own.
The characters, the story, all of it is beautiful! The illustrations compliment the story really, really well!
Language:
N/A
Overall:
I really loved this graphic novel and would definitely recommend it to kids age 10 and up because of the few panels near the end that contain blood.
Wouldn't want to traumatize the little bunnies lovers. That would be bad.
I'd also recommend, for help with context, that they watch the Watership Down mini series on Netflix. It's really good and follows the storyline pretty well... it would be a good thing to help fill in the blanks, the pictures, and text sometimes leave, and that way, they don't have to read the whole Watership Down book, which is pretty big. XD
Anyway, this is a great graphic novel adaption!
Read
February 22, 2024Apart from the gorgeous illustrations of the rain-soaked English countryside, one of the most enthralling hooks of this book is the depiction of the nobility and ingenuity of the ragtag band of rabbits. They live by a straightforward creed: they leave no one behind, even the weakest, in their fearless and open-ended quest for a new home. They befriend other species, and inspire devoted friendships. They reject both the temptations of life as farmed rabbits, and as deputies under martially regimented rabbits. The effects of man's expansion of urban life, even unintentional ones, on wildlife are made clear. The plot of the rabbit's venture through all toils and troubles to find a home, their myth of the Prince of the Thousand Enemies, and the story's end, have staying power. This graphic novel is a great medium to introduce the story to new readers who might otherwise be repulsed by the novel's length or format.
December 27, 2023
A beautiful and faithful adaptation of one of my favorite books. A book to be enjoyed again and again
January 8, 2024
I loved this! It was so cool to have it as a companion to the book. The artwork is beautiful and calming but also terrifying at some points. Loved having another little adventure with these rabbits.
February 19, 2024
This story was beautifully illustrated and told a surprisingly violent story. I would not say that this book is suitable for small children, both because of it's violence and the uncalled for bad language out of a Russian (?!) bird.
The ending gave me chills and the odd desire to cry. I would recommend it to others.
The ending gave me chills and the odd desire to cry. I would recommend it to others.
November 7, 2023
This graphic adaptation of Richard Adams' novel is near-perfect, capturing the unusual mix of bucolic idyll and constant life struggle that made the original so powerful. James Sturm's text sticks fairly close to its source, while Joe Sutphin's restrained visuals resist the temptation to drift into the cartoony, something that Martin Rosen's 1978 film adaptation struggled with. It's no substitute for the original book, but as a companion piece this graphic novel is ideal.
May 18, 2023
Thank you Netgalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A beautiful adaptation of one of my favorite novels of all time. The art was lovely and it captured the spirit of the source material incredibly well. It's, of course, rather abridged but it is a great taste of the awesomeness that is the novel. I'll definitely be buying this one when it comes out.
A beautiful adaptation of one of my favorite novels of all time. The art was lovely and it captured the spirit of the source material incredibly well. It's, of course, rather abridged but it is a great taste of the awesomeness that is the novel. I'll definitely be buying this one when it comes out.
October 20, 2023
Absolutely brilliant!
First, Watership Down is my second favorite fantasy to The Lord of the Rings. Like that book, I've read it many times. This graphic novel adaptation is brilliant, the art is beautiful and it carries the story along with it. This would be a wonderful way to introduce the book to children. Highly, highly recommended.
First, Watership Down is my second favorite fantasy to The Lord of the Rings. Like that book, I've read it many times. This graphic novel adaptation is brilliant, the art is beautiful and it carries the story along with it. This would be a wonderful way to introduce the book to children. Highly, highly recommended.
January 29, 2024
Beautiful adaptation of a classic (which I have not read). The story could have done with a bit more dread and bad news, but I'll take what I can get.
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