The Beatles Yellow Submarine

Bill Morrison’s authorized graphic novel adaptation of The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, will delight both long-time and new Beatles fans. The evil Blue Meanies are attacking Pepperland, an exceptionally happy place where everyone lives in peace and harmony with one another. Join Fred as he seeks the help of The Fab Four — John, Paul, George, and Ringo — in hopes to bring music, joy, and love back to Pepperland. Their adventures take them from an eventful ride in a yellow submarine to Nowhere Land, from the Foothills of the Headlands to the Sea of Holes. When they finally reach Pepperland, The Beatles disguise themselves as members of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and play their music for all to hear, ultimately inspiring a love revolution.

Morrison’s bright and busy illustrations perfectly capture the spirit of the fast-paced animated movie. Most of the speech balloons are direct quotations from the movie, although Morrison has included a few original one-liners that wonderfully match the film’s humor. The lyrics and iconic images associated with the musical sequences aren’t depicted in the graphic novel; while some devoted fans may argue this as a loss, it’s commendable that Morrison gives preference to the story itself, allowing it to progress naturally. Closing the book is a section of concept art and sketches. Everyone with a soft spot for The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine should add this graphic novel to their collection.