Orpheus in the Underworld

By Yvan Pommaux. Published by Toon Books. 

Softcover, 56 pages, Colour, 2015. 

Son of a muse, the young musician Orpheus has everything: talent, beauty, courage, love. Then, in a moment, everything is lost. His bride Eurydice is killed in a terrible accident on their wedding night. Armed only with his lyre, Orpheus enters the desolate Underworld, where no mortal has ever gone before. He’s determined to achieve the impossible— bring his wife back to life, restore their happiness, and ensure he’s never in danger of losing her again. This gorgeous book retells the tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice in a way newly relatable to young readers. Through its epic illustrations and captivating, carefully researched text, it earns its place in the canon. 

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

"A quasi-comic-book form that mingles fine-edged yet expansive drawings, speech bubbles and short paragraphs…he packs a gratifying amount of detail into his rendition of this heartbreaking story."
--The Wall Street Journal

"A highly accessible retelling with broad appeal."
--Booklist

"This version of the myth should find a natural home in bedrooms and classrooms alike, as it makes the story eminently accessible…and engaging."
--Jamie Greene for Geek Dad

"This book would be a helpful addition to any curriculum that includes an examination of Greek mythology."
--Kids Reads