The Count of Monte Cristo

by Rob Lloyd Jones (Adapter), Victor Tavares (Illustrator), Alexandre Dumas

Who is the mysterious Count of Monte Cristo and how did he acquire his magnificent wealth? This rip-roaring tale of revenge is packed with adventure - from daring prison escapes to hidden treasure and duels at dawn.

Genres: Fiction

64 pages, Paperback

First published February 13, 2010

About the author

Rob Lloyd Jones was born in San Francisco but grew up in London. He studied Egyptology at University where he learnt hieroglyphics, and often goes on digs with the Egypt Exploration Society. He is a senior editor at Usborne, for whom he has written over thirty books – mostly historical non-fiction, but also adaptations of classics such as JEKYLL AND HYDE and THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO. Rob is also a volunteer reading helper at a primary school in Clerkenwell and wrote episodes of the children’s TV show ‘Bernard’s Watch’ for Carlton Kids. He lives in south London with his wife Sally, and 14-month-old son Otis.

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.55 Stars
Definitely one of my favourite ones in the Usborne Young Reading series (also one of the longest). It was unlike any of the other ones I have read, very fresh with a few similarities here and there with other stories especially The Three Musketeers (also by Alexandre Dumas). The illustrations were extraordinary. Very different to previous ones, with candid details and a bit of a mystery to them/something stranger and mysterious, they really stood out from the rest ( like that of Beowulf with the same storyteller and illustrator). The choice of words were again simple but I was always intrigued, eager to see what happens next. Must say I was not expecting a lot of the things, it wasn't predictable and cheesy like so many other classics are. The Count of Monte Cristo was a powerful blend of items woven into a clever story completed in the best possible way. I was happy with the ending too and felt I was part of the story at times. This is one of the only Usborne stories I was not familiar with before reading it (like with Beowulf) so I had no idea what it was about and the blurb is also quite brief which just edges you on to read more. I'd say it is very accurate to the original just a lot more brief and with pictures to help you along the journey. I would recommend this or read it again. Dumas is a true genius storyteller. Deserves a place on everyone's bookshelf ( Classic lovers should heed).

[Shannon Fogarty · Rating 3 out of 5]

I accidentally ordered this condensed, children's version instead of the proper book, but it was still good. My 18-month-old enjoyed the pictures.