Dracula, illustrated by Greg Hildebrandt
Book review
by John Goodrich

 

Rating:

 

What could possibly be better than good old Dracula? How about a lavishly illustrated Dracula? Even better, one with illustrations by one of the greatest science fiction/fantasy artists of our generation? Then you definitely need to find a copy of Dracula, illustrated by Greg Hildebrandt. It's a clothbound book, made to last, from Unicorn publishing, issued in 1985.

But how can I convey to the reader the wonder and beauty of Greg Hildebrandt's full-color interior pictures? They are exquisite; beautiful, moody pieces that capture for me the true essence of the novel. And it is absolutely obvious that Mr. Hildebrandt has done his homework. Dracula has a moustache, Mina's hair is fair while Lucy's is dark. The background landscapes are sublime, and appear to glow softly in their own moonlight. The ruined piles of Castle Dracula and Carfax Abbey brood behind the characters, lending Gothic menace all the scenes in their shadow. Add to this an introduction by Frank Langella, and you have an absolutely irresistible package. Unfortunately, you'll only see these a science fiction conventions, and possibly in used book stores. Buy it. You'll treasure it.