Gr 7 Up—Dumas's swashbuckling adventure introduces readers to the Musketeers' feats of derring-do with this six-volume series. In volume one, d'Artagnan first encounters the trio of elite French fighters. The scene quickly advances 30 years into the future when only d'Artagnan remains a Musketeer. All four heroes find that their paths cross in one final adventure involving a plotted coup to replace Louis XIV with his twin brother. In volume three, the plot is discovered and Louis banishes his brother, ordering his face be covered with an iron mask forever. The king then commands d'Artagnan to arrest and execute Aramis and Porthos, who were the instigators of the scheme. Beginning in volume five, first Porthos, then Athos, and finally d'Artagnan meet their deaths. The story concludes with his poignant words, "Athos, Porthos, farewell till we meet again! Aramis, adieu for ever." Readers will be caught up in this romantic tale of action and adventure based on language from the original classic and containing a story synopsis at the beginning of each volume. As each man ages, his distinctive features and visually well-defined persona remain consistent throughout the saga. Use of a limited color palette gives this adaptation a classic feel.—Barbara M. Moon, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY
