Around the World by Matt Phelan

After Jules Verne published Around the World in Eighty Days, people were inspired to try circumnavigating the earth themselves. Travelling around the world is still an exciting proposition, but it was much harder to do in the 19th century than it is today. Graphic novelist Matt Phelan recounts the adventures of three historical figures who rose to the challenge before the turn of the twentieth century. They travelled alone: Thomas Stevens by ship and bicycle; Nellie Bly by ship and train; and Joshua Slocum by boat.

Phelan's soft, expressive lines and muted use of colour evokes the era nicely. The determination and fortitude required to undertake such remarkable journeys can be seen on all three faces in Phelan's cover illustration. Around the World will appeal to a wide range of readers, from Grade 3 right up to adults.