We didn't have many options to pick from. Nowadays things have significantly improved, very much thanks to technology and pedagogic enhancements. We are aware that not all teenagers are eager readers and that we can meet those who are not halfway by proposing a more engaging version of the classic novel, such as a comic.
The publishing house Heinle Cengage Learning (National Geographic) has a collection called Classical Comics especially designed for ELT students. I don't know, maybe if it's my impression, but I've noticed that most students (even the most difficult to engage) react in a very positive and unexpected way when I tell them they are going to read a comic.
I suppose that direct speech (the dialogues are graded) and attractive comic strips are more entertaining and easier to understand than a stack of words on a piece of paper. Also, the characters are more recognizable. For example in Great Expectations, that's the book I got, there are at least 24 characters and, let's face it, it's difficult even for an adult to remember who is who all the time, especially when you get to those complicated parts where many names appear and you start to get really lost in the mist while you can't help falling asleep.
Well, in these ELT graphic novels you'll find a full descriptions of the main characters with pictures to help students follow the story and also, a glossary to support students while they read. The language used is for intermediate learners, levels B1 and B2. There's a short biography of the author and, of course, audio CDs to provide a complete reading experience that will allow students to improve their listening and speaking skills too.
Give it a try! Get your students to love reading!
Great Expectations worksheets here.
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