Thunderbirds: The Comic Collection by Gerry Anderson

Egmont, 2013. ISBN: 9781405268363.
As a graphic novel of almost 290 pages, this tome was a tad overwhelming to receive and review as I have obviously never really been a massive fan of 'comics'! This was perhaps not the best choice for me but, nevertheless, one I chose to read as a large number of our primary aged students devour graphic novels. Containing a multitude of brief adventure stories and cross-sections of the machines, this book would no doubt hold much appeal to many boys in both primary and lower secondary who adore the format of graphic novels.
Personally, as a 'more mature' reader with failing eyesight, I did find this book a challenge to read. Because it contains art works from the original comic strips and is written in upper case handwritten type font, I kept feeling that the images and print were somewhat blurry, probably not an issue to younger readers. I did enjoy the 'Elegance, Charm and Deadly Danger' of Lady Penelope's sections. This truly was a return to an earlier era, including cardigans, two piece designer suits and a low slung pink Rolls Royce so I found it quite amusing.
Despite not having been a devotee of the Thunderbirds on television in my youth, I nonetheless recognised the characters with ease and now feel the need to go and find some of the animated clips which I am sure are available on YouTube. This book of vintage comics will probably encourage the growth of a whole new generation of Thunderbirds fans!
Jo Schenkel