Don Quixote is an elderly Spanish gentleman who, having read one too many chivalric romances decides to become a knight errant. Accompanied by his faithful if philosophical squire he sets out on some fantastical adventures across 16th century Spain. Righting wrongs, rescuing damsels in distress and embarking upon a series of other wonderful adventures Don Quixote's story bursts with humour and romance.
Martin Jenkins and Chris Riddell are an award winning author and illustrator team who have once again combined their undoubted talents to produce a fabulously illustrated and brilliantly retold version of a classic. Until the release of this book Don Quixote was most certainly a book for adults, Jenkins and Riddell have made it into a book accessible to children and adults alike. The language has been modernised, illustrations have been added to every page and it has been retold for a modern audience without losing any of the original quirkiness.
Chris Riddell's pen and ink sketches adorn the book, hiding behind boxes of text that create a very readable novel despite its size! He adds to these full colour, full page illustrations in his unmistakable style. Martin Jenkins' language “My,” chuckled Sancho, “she's a strapping lass” and 'quick as a flash he took off his trousers' modernises the original version and certainly makes the reader laugh out loud. Many of the attributes of the original have been retained - the brilliant chapter headings for example. The addition of a character list complete with thumbnail pictures opens up a whole new reading experience.
Adults if you have never read Don Quixote here is your chance, encourage children to try it too and share a wonderful journey of discovery and good old fashioned adventure, marvel at the illustration and ensure that this book becomes a classic for a new generation of readers.