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Kafkaesque

Fourteen Stories
3.85 goodreads logo

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( 724 ratings, 123 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Kafkaesque is a compelling graphic novel adaptation of Franz Kafka's darkly humorous and haunting stories, including "A Hunger Artist," "In The Penal Colony," and "The Burrow." Illustrated by Peter Kuper, the book evokes the claustrophobic and manic atmosphere of Kafka's work through an art style inspired by Lynd Ward and Frans Masereel. These adaptations, based on new translations, explore timeless themes and offer commentary on modern issues such as civil rights and homelessness.
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Format: Hardback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels and classic literature, especially those fascinated by Kafka's enigmatic and pessimistic tales. It suits both longtime Kafka enthusiasts and newcomers seeking a visually striking introduction to his work.

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Award-winning graphic novelist Peter Kuper presents a mesmerising interpretation of fourteen iconic Kafka short stories.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Long fascinated with the work of Franz Kafka, Peter Kuper began illustrating his stories in 1988. Initially drawn to the master's dark humour, Kuper adapted the stories over the years to plumb their deeper truths. Kuper's style deliberately evokes Lynd Ward and Frans Masereel, contemporaries of Kafka whose wordless novels captured much of the same claustrophobia and mania as Kafka's tales. Working from new translations of the classic texts, Kuper has reimagined these iconic stories for the twenty-first century, using setting and perspective to comment on contemporary issues like civil rights and homelessness.

Longtime lovers of Kafka will appreciate Kuper's innovative interpretations, while Kafka novices will discover a haunting introduction to some of the great writer's most beguiling stories, including "A Hunger Artist," "In The Penal Colony," and "The Burrow." Kafkaesque stands somewhere between adaptation and wholly original creation, going beyond a simple illustration of Kafka's words to become a stunning work of art.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Praised for its innovative reinterpretations, Kafkaesque has been lauded as a fresh, enchanting exploration of Kafka's literary genius. The Times Literary Supplement highlights Kuper's ability to remain true to the originals while providing new perspectives. Starburst Magazine calls it a robust testament to Kafka's prowess, complemented by Kuper's dynamic artwork. The Wall Street Journal notes the humour is intact and enhanced, making it a brilliant edition for fans and new readers alike.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780393635621

Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 18 September 2018

Country: United States

Imprint: WW Norton & Co

Contributors:

  • Adapted by Peter Kuper
  • Translated by Peter Kuper

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 15.0mm

Width: 168.0mm

Height: 241.0mm

Weight: 532g

Pages: 160

About the Author

Franz Kafka (1883–1924) was one of the most important writers of the twentieth century. His major novels includeΒ The Trial,Β The Castle, andΒ Amerika. Peter Kuper wrote the Eisner Award–winning Ruins and critically acclaimed adaptations of Alice in Wonderland, Heart of Darkness, and Metamorphosis. He founded the political anthology World War 3 Illustrated, writes and draws Mad magazine’s Spy vs. Spy, and taught Harvard University’s first class dedicated to graphic novels and comics. Β  Peter Kuper wrote the Eisner Award–winning Ruins and critically acclaimed adaptations of Alice in Wonderland, Heart of Darkness, and Metamorphosis. He founded the political anthology World War 3 Illustrated, writes and draws Mad magazine’s Spy vs. Spy, and taught Harvard University’s first class dedicated to graphic novels and comics.

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