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Book Description

Book Description

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Reviews (12)

A Little Bit of Fun
Someplace growing up I ran into the Asterix titles, with a four volume set beginning with Asterix the Gaul. As a child I enjoyed the antics; as an adult I enjoy the puns and historical allusions. It continually amazes me to realize that this is originally a French production, and yet translated into English and some 20 other languages, and the puns *still* translate! That's not easy to do. And while later episodes decline in quality and are suitable more for children, stories like Asterix the Gaul are great for children of 30 years too.

The very names provide example of brilliant use of dialogue. Asterix- a small, seeming addition. Obelisk, who delivers menhirs. Getafix, the Druid. (Remember, this series began in the 60's.) Cacaphonix, the Bard, and Vitalstatistix, the chief. In the same vein, the authors use contemporary differences between cultures and play them upon the ancient Gaulish-Roman dispute. This is about the only place one can find swearing in Latin- "ipso facto", "sic", etc. Or the taking of Toutanis' name in vain.

Asterix The Gaul-Start a tradition
This is the first book in a series about Asterix, his funny friend Obelix, and the wise druid, Getafix. These hilarious adventures take place in the Roman Era. Goscinny and Uderzo do a splendid job of capturing you in the first book of this priceless collection.

The first in a great series
Asterix The Gaul was first published in French in 1961 and in English only in 1969.
The first of the Asterix books , it is a very clever and witty piece of work on the Roman occupation of Gaul in 50 BC-with a fair amount of Latin quips in too -read Asterix and you'll soon become familiar with 'Quid' , 'Vae victo , vae victus' and 'Morituri te salutant'.
It begins with the familiar scene of well thumped Roman legionnaires reporting their defeat to an incensed Roman centurion (in this case Crismus Bonus) who then hatches a plan to deal with the Gauls which our heroes always in the end foil.

It also includes such recurring themes as Cacofonix and his hated singing , the magic potion (and why Obelix cannot have any ) and a guest appearance by Julius Caesar.It ends as always without he Gauls feasting their heroes 'under a starry sky...victorious over their enemies , thanks to magic the protection of the gods and low cunning'.

Unlike all of its successors in this book , Obelix does not even offer to accompany Asterix on his adventure (which is so unlike the Obelix we know from all of the other Asterix books).
There are some gaps in the dialogue and there is unusually not one woman or girl in the first book . drawbacks which will be made up for in the other Asterix books.

Nevertheless it is a great start to your Asterix collection and an amusing little book.

....and you thought *Gladiator* popularized all things Roman
It is impossible to understand, from Amazon's slim and anemic presentation, the breadth and impact that this series has had upon generations of children in France, Europe, and America--remember, France has a thriving Asterix theme park a la Disney, and it's a premier destination site for French families with young children.

But quite possibly this is the sort of book that still sells most of its copies in bookstores--because it's the kind of read where one might pick it up because of the pictures, and then, as one gets deeper in, one realizes "Hey, this is amazingly silly, intelligent, and fun. I'm halfway through and already I know I'm going to have to read it again because there are still some new jokes for me to pick up on. I'd better buy it and bring it home so I can read it through a second time." And when you bring it home--it's quite possible for Asterix to become an obsession, and you find yourself returning, time and time again, to the bookstore, to try to find copies of other books in the series.

The early books in the series are without question the best (I say "books" advisedly, these are short graphic novels ie classy comic books). As the series ballooned in popularity, the stories began to fall into an established pattern that is less interesting than the brilliant twists and turns that are hallmark of, say, Asterix the Gaul, Asterix and Cleopatra, and Asterix and the Olympic games (certain 'tics' were possibly brought on by aggressive fan mail, one can't help but feel). The puns and wordgames of these earlier books range from subtle to screaming and are a sort of "gift that keeps on giving"--some of them will certainly pass you by until you pick up some scraps of Latin and Classical history and advanced education in general. Better still, the historical material is slipped in in such a sly way that as one reads it, one starts asking questions. "Did Cleopatra really have a big nose?" "What *was* the Roman occupation of Gaul really like?" The series sparks a lovely desire to know more--and is also, I would suggest, an unacknowledged idea source, a la Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, for many fantasy writers actively working today.

But what none of my words above capture is the sheer demonic sense of FUN in these books. Read these books--you may not even like them the first time through. Try them again later--suddenly you'll get it. Like most classical works of art and literature, it is how you perceive these books over time that matters--and over time, Asterix holds up.

Indomitably so.

Great Series
This is the best comic book series around. I used to read these books when I was just a child and they were funny even then. Now as an older and wiser person, I began to pick up the underlying satire and it proved to be even more funnier. This would compare with the TV series The Simpsons in their rather innocent look but they include alot of word play and hidden jokes. Since I grew up with the British translation, I would recommend it over the American version. ... Read more

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Reviews (5)

Caesar sets a cat among the pigeons...
After a drunken Legionnaire is heard making insulting remarks about Julius Caesar, Caesar decides to give him a present-which he in turn sells to a Gaullish Innkeeper for a meal and some drinks.

The innkeeper, Orthopaedix, comes to the village, we know so well, with his wife and daughter, setting in chain a breakdown of cohesion there, as a dispute over the Chieftainship of the village, Obelix falling in love, and the refusal of Druid Getafix to make magic potion makes for another rollicking Asterix adventure.

Once more, a lot of fun.

Not the best...
Well, its Asterix, so of course its wonderful.It certainly is not the best one, though.Rome has a new tack for conquering the village, one that causes even more dissension then usual.The addition of a rather annoying girl who seems to wrap all of the men around her finger is a sorry newcomer who just doesnt live up to the normally delightful characters.Of course it has all of the elements that make Astrix wonderful, and it is true no collection would be complete without it.

Get 'em all
If you have never readix an Asterix bookix you are in for a treat.Lots of material that is over the head of youngsters.Buy..read..enjoy..then read again.Timeless...And, if your copy falls apart, replace it...cheers

A fine book, but cheaply made
The paperback edition of this book fell apart in my hands -- and on the first reading no less.The replacement copy did the same thing.

As good as always
in this book, a soldier that finished his 20 years in the army is given land as a good0bye gift. Ofcourse, its asterixs village. he sells it to a bartender for some drinks, and the bartender takes his family out there.They are suprised to find the village is inhabited, and they had beentricked-the land never belonged to anyone but the people of the village!they decide to just move into the empty inn there. Lots of things follow:the bartenders wife is so mad at impedimenta, she makes her husband runagainst vitalstatistix for chief, obelix tries his best to impress Zaza,the daughter of the bartender, romans attack the village, and much more.You gotta read this book! ... Read more

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Reviews (6)

Divide and Rule
Julius Caesar's opponents in the Roman Senate are putting him under increasing ridicule, as a result of the continued resistance of the tiny village in the north of Gaul, which refuses to submit to Roman hegemony.
His latest plan involves the use of an agent, who has a remarkable talent to cause enmity and conflict, wherever he goes.
Before he gets to use his cunning in his attempts to neutralize the village, we get to observe his talents, with all who he comes into contact with.
Before long, Tortuous Convulvulus has sown the seeds of slander, jealousy and calumny in the Gaullish village, causing Asterix, Obelix and Getafix to leave the village.
Can our friends once more foil the Romans and preserve the independence of the village?
This Asterix album comes complete with a handy little battle guide, and once more is filled with the puns and wit we have come to expect from Goscinny and Uderzo.
In this album we get to examine the divide and rule tactics of the Roman Empire, which where used so well by the British Empire, and in the 20th century the Communist Empire. It is also used today with great effect in one party states to neutralize opposition.

If you like Asterix...
... you will love this book!The story is typical Asterix andthe color and puns are just as side-splitting as ever!Add this oneto your personal comedy library!

Classic Gaulish adventure!
In this book, the great Julius Caesar attempts once more to destroy the well-loved Armorican village on the seaside of Gaul. He sends a Roman agent to sow the seeds of strife between Asterix and his people.

Whetheryou're a newcomer to the world of Asterix and Obelix the Gauls, or an oldfan, this particular book is one that is definitely worth owning. The waythe authors so easily entwine history with fiction and comedy is priceless.

Priceless tale
This is a must read for everyone. This comics illustrates how politicians play double cross with people. Just read it for fun & then think whether the situation is same in today's real life as well!

This book is quite clever and very humourous.
I would recommend this book to any one. I have read several times and Ienjoy it just as much every time. Not that many people have heard ofAsterix, but you should really get this book! ... Read more

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Reviews (5)

Asterix in Caesar's Palace
First published in French in 1972 as Les Lauriers de César, Asterix and the Laurel Wreath was first published in English in 1975.
Vitalstatistix, in a drunken outburst, boasts to Impedimenta's pompous brother, Homeopathix, which he will have a dish prepared, made from Caesar's laurel wreath.
Due to the honour and glory of the village, this now needs to be done, so Asterix and Obelix go to Rome, with the purpose of obtaining this item.
Here they get up to all sorts of escapades to get hold of the laurel wreath, including selling themselves as slaves, spending a night in Julius Caesar's palace prison, and another visit to the arena of the Circus Maximus (see Asterix the Gladiator).

In Rome they accidentally invent a recipe that provides an antidote to the ill effects of alcohol, thus setting in motion the eventual fall of the Roman Empire, (as the concoction will lead the Romans to feel free to indulge, forgetting that alcohol, unless taken in moderation is the father of all vices.)

There are many jokes in the Asterix albums that will escape younger readers. That's what makes the Asterix books so interesting. There are always rather subtle jokes that you discover on another reading!
This is one of the wittiest and most charming Asterix books.

Adventures Could Have Been Better Selected
Every Asterix adventure is a fun read, so I loved all 5 adventures in this collection, viz., 'Asterix and The Laurel Wreath', 'Asterix in Switzerland', 'Mansion of the Gods', 'Obelix and Co', 'Asterix The Gladiator'.
However I thought the stories could have been arranged more thematically. None of the adventures in this book share any common theme. Eg, 'Asterix and the Laurel Wreath' and 'Asterix and the Chieftan's Shield' belonged together in one collection, or, 'Obelx and Co', 'Asterix and the Roman Agent', and 'Asterix and Caesar's Gift' belonged together, as they all deal with the Romans' attempts to sow discord in the Gaulish village we all know very well.
But, on the whole, no regrets with the stories themselves. All rate 5 stars!

Forget Other Comix..... Get Asterix!
All the comics in the Asterix series have a kind of charm and atittude that other comics lack. They are perfect for long airplane flights, as a bedtime story.... I am fifteen and I still buy them at every chance i get.This particular issue sees Asterix and his trusty pal Obelix (who's hecalling fat?) on a search for Caesar's laurel wreath after their Chieftanmakes a drunken bet with his brother-in-law that he will cook up amagnificent meal seasoned with the wreath!Their adventures are filledwith names like Geriatrix (a senior citizen) and littered with hiddenjokes, but the humor is still light and happy enough for people of allages. CANNOT even compare the Asterix series to any other comix!

Take a look at Lutetia (Paris) and Rome in 50BCE
This adventure begins in Lutetia, (the greatest city in the world), where Asterix learns he must travel to Rome (the greatest city in the world) and return with Caesar's Laurel Wreath. This intricately drawn book featuresstunning drawings of Lutetia and Rome in 50BCE, as well as many newhilarious characters (Vitalstatistix's inlaws! Characiture Romans! Circusbeasts! Many more!). Goscinny and Uderzo are at their best in this work,treating readers with characters and plot-lines which are nearly puredistillations of the comic muse. The architecture of Rome is featuredprominently in the background, and you will see many views of the PalatineHill, the Colosseum, the slave market, patrician residences and Caesar'spalace. Now 32, I've been enjoying this book since I was 7 years old, andthe combination of pure comedy and intricate artwork guarantees that youwill too!

A good Collection of Asterix Adventures
This Bind-up contains the following stories: 1)Asterix the Gladiator 2)Asterix in Switzerland 3)The Mansion of the Gods 4)Asterix and the LaurelWreath 5)Obelix and Co. This collection of stories complements the otherbindup books namely: Absolutely Asterix and Asterix Forever. A fun read.Will keep you entertained. ... Read more

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Reviews (3)

Asterix and the Silver Star
First published in French in 1970 as Astérix chez les Helvêtes,
Asterix in Switzerland was first published in English in 1973.

A visitor from Rome interrupts Varius Flavus, the Roman Governor of Condatum (Rennes), from one of his depraved and revolting orgies.
Quaestor Vexatius Sinusitus has been sent by Julius Caesar, as a Treasurer for the Provinces, to audit the Governor's accounts.
As Flavus has been rather freely crooking the accounts, he poisons the Quaestor to get him out the way.

An ill Sinusitus secretly sends for the Getafix who is a famous healer, and Getafix of course takes with Asterix and Obelix, and our two heroes are sent to Helvetia (Switzerland) to fetch the one thing that can save his charge, the Silver Star (Edelweiss).
Varius Flavus is desperate to ensure that the Quaestor is not saved and sends word to his friend, the equally corrupt Governor of Genava (Geneva) that Asterix and Obelix are to be stopped at all costs.

Once more the author Goscinny writes a witty and satirical adventure, poking gentle fun at the customs of Switzerland, their punctuality and clocks, fondues and Swiss Cheese, yodeling and banks. We get to observe an ancient `International Conference of Tribal Chiefs', almost as useless and hypocritical as the United
Nations of today and even get to meet the famous Michelin man when our friends stop off at a repair station to mend a broken wheel.
Once more a fantastic classic, from the famous Goscinny and Uderzo.

One of my favorites
There is one thing that I like in this episode more than in any other - drawing!Landscapes of Switzerland in this book truly show Uderzo's talent.

A review from Mr. Entertainment Lover
A wonderfully done book in which Asterix, Obelix, and Getafix, must save a roman inspector that has been poisened by an evil roman governor. To save the inspectors life they must travel to the mountains in Switzerland to geta flower that can heal him. ... Read more

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Reviews (6)

A Jolly Good Thing , What?
A particularly amusing Asterix album , it was first published in 1966 ,in French , as Astérix chez les Bretons and in English in 1970.
After the Roman conquest of Britain ( veni vidi vici and all that...) , a small village of Britons holds out against the Roman invaders just like their counterparts in Gaul.
British chief Mykingdomforanos -aided by his right hand man the Hibernian (Irishman) Overoptimistix and the Caledonian (Scotsman) McAnix- asks one of his favourite men , Aticlimax , to visit his cousin Asterix in Gaul , to seek help.

The result is that he returns to Britain with Asterix , Obelix and a barrel of magic potion. The Romans have however got wind of the news , and they do everything in their power to make sure that the barrel of magic potion does not reach it's destination.

Jam packed with all things British , there are guest appearances by the Beatles ( this book was written when Beatlemania was at its height) and Boadicea. The adventure takes place in such places as the governor's palace in Londinium (Buckingham Palace) , London Bridge , the Tower of London and the Thames.
Our friends are introduced to Rugby and British food (which both the authors and Obelix do not hide their contempt very well) as well as tea (which unbeknown to our heroes plays a large part in the resolution of the story).
There is even a reference to the Channel Tunnel (even though this was written in 1966 , 21 years before construction of the Chunnel begun-the idea was only being talked about then!).

A family favorite
This is my daughter Andrea's (16) favorite Asterix - her favorite word at the moment is "guano" if that makes any difference. Just goes to show you. Her brother Mark (10) has read 'Asterix in Britain' until it's dog-earred.

Funny, funny stuff!

The translation isn't the best, but the story is
As others here have noted, and harshly critized, the translation is not upto the golden standard set by Derek Hockridge and Anthea Bell. I don't particularly mind the name changes, they still convey the characters in a clever way, but a good portion of the book feels like a translation (most of the books amazingly don't seem this way). I need not comment any more on this topic as it has been well explained.

But I want to make another point, one that may be overshadowed by the less perfectionate (though adquate—you can still read the story and understand it) translation: The story is still very good as are the drawings. I would like to rate this version of the book 3.5 stars, but I went up to 4 because of the wonderful illustrations and plot. For the British version though, I would rank it 5 stars. If you can, try getting the British version on ....

TERRIBLE translation
I agree with the reviews above-the translation in this one is horrible. The name changes are universally poor, the jokes have been forcibly removed, and it feels like a skeleton of the original. Getafix will always be Getafix, Vitalstatistix the same. Beg or plead for an earlier English translation, it would be worth twice what you pay for this one.

I agree with the reader from Dallas.
Not only is the translation disappointing, the key characters around Asterix and Obelix have "NEW" names! (example - Druid Getafix's name is 'Magigimix' in this book! ). However the illustration is exactly as the original. I found 2 more books with the same translation problem - Asterix and the Great Crossing and the Olympic games (both paperback). If you are serious fan do not buy these books. ... Read more

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Reviews (7)

Cleopatra with the Gauls
This is one of the earlier works in the Asterix series. Fans will notice that the art and the renderings of our favorite characters are somewhat simpler than the style later adopted. Nevertheless, the story is definitely worth a look. Goscinny and Uderzo have already developed their penchant for historical comedy, introducing Asterix and Obelix to classic figures (in this case, Caesar and Cleopatra). Although many of the laughs are cheap ones, the book's plot makes up for its shortcomings in verbal shtick. Students and teachers of Egyptian history alike will find that this little comic has a lot of insights into the way of life of Cleopatra and her people (give or take a few fictitious details).

My first and so far favorite Asterix
I stumbled upon Asterix and Cleopatra in India in '91. Prior to this I had never heard of it. Asterix was never all that popular in the U.S. but it's odd that I had never heard a single thing about it. Anyway, it means many Americans are missing out on some great fun. Asterix is an stunningly well-drawn Belgian comic (check out the meticulous brush lines and level of detail in the backgrounds) that is clever, amusing and sometimes laugh out loud funny. Whatever it is, it's always fun, even if the jokes fall flat. Asterix and Cleopatra is arguable the best of the lot, at least of the ones I've read so far, which is quite a few. One thing I don't like is the way the American covers are printed. I mean it would be nice if they allotted more space for the artwork.

A fine book, but cheaply made
The paperback edition of this book fell apart in my hands -- and on the first reading, no less. The replacement copy did the same thing. You may want to spend the extra money on the hardcover.

It's René Goscinny, and not René de Goscinny.
Great Album, funny, with wonderful art and it's instructive !... You can read all the Asterix by Goscinny and Uderzo, they are all perfect. By the way, it is rené Goscinny and not René De Goscinny. Thank you. I'm a french fan of Goscinny, and encourage you to read anything from him, it's always marvellous and smart.

A review from Mr. Entertainment Lover
Look out all you Egyptians and Romans because here comes Asterix and Obelix. When Caeser thinks the Egyptions are a primitive people and only good under semi-slavery, Cleopatra sets out to prove he is wrong. Asterix and Obelix come to help and surprises are at every corner. This is the best and funniest Asterix book yet as the two struggle to help build a temple with the druid Getafix. ... Read more

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Reviews (5)

Very entertaining, great illustrations
As a child, I read all of the "classic" Asterix books in Swedish. As an adult living in the U.S., I am reading them again to my children, but this time in English. This is an old classic, and it is very entertaining.

Asterix and Obelix live in small village in Gaul that Julius Caesar never succeeded to subdue. In this story, the village bard (whose musical talents are beyond frightening), is kidnapped, and sent to Rome as a gift to Julius Caesar. Even though the villagers rather not hear his voice again, they set out to rescue him. However, before he is home safe and sound, he will have his chance to perform (torture more accurately) for Julius Caesar and the citizens of Rome.

I find that children the age 5-13 usually really enjoy these books, not just mine. These comic books are a great way to teach children ancient history. Naturally, the adult needs to help with the differentiation between fiction and history. From these books, my kids have learned about the Roman Empire, the ancient Greeks, the Vikings, the Goths, the Phoenicians, ancient Gaul, ancient Egypt, and the ancient Mediterranean world in general.

Asterix in Rome!
Asterix The Gladiator was first published in French in 1964 as "Astérix Gladiateur " and in English in 1969.Asterix and Obelix set out for Rome to rescue the Bard Cacofonix who has been captured by the Romans as a gift idea by Prefect Odius Asparagus for Julius Caesar.
This will be their first visit to Rome , they meet the unscrupulous Phoenician merchant Economikrisis who will feature again in later Astrix albums and for the first time they run into the Pirates (to the Pirate's great cost) as they will time and time again!
In order to find Cacofonix they become Gladiators and soon drive the slave driver Cauis Fatuous crazy . Cacofonix however is quite able to look after himself as his singing drives the Romans even crazier...
As usual their mission is successfully accomplished to everyone's satisfaction (except Cauis Fatuous who gets his comeuppance).

Five Shinin' Stars for "Asterix the Gladiator"
This is the first Asterix book I have read. The names of the characters are a little weird, but it's still an extremely good book!

Odious Asperagus, the Roman Prefect of Gaul, wants to give Julius Caesar a present. So he kidnaps Cacofonix, the Gaulish bard, to give to Caesar as a present! (Cacofonix is a really bad singer, too!) So, Asterix and Obleix go to rescue Cacofonix from the Romans.

This book is really exciting, interesting, and funny. The pictures in this book are great. My favorite parts are when Obleix says his favorite saying, "These Romans are crazy!" Whenever Obleix smells wild boar, he just dashes for it! (It's his favorite food.)

Me and my Dad are reading it together, even though I finished the whole book already! I think this book is just as super for kids as it is for grown-ups!

What a roar!
The nasty yet clumsy Romans capture the village bard, Cacofonix, as a gift for Caesar from the Prefect of Gaul. However, due to their ever-so-common feat of destroying Roman encampments, Asterix and Obelix are informed about the bard's kidnapping and they immediately set off for Rome to rescue him. The story runs along very well, placing the two fiesty Gauls in a couple of hilarious Gladiator bouts at the "Circus Maximus." Even the Roman Emperor Caesar is on hand to make things a little bit difficult for the Gaulish duo.

This book is a fun, exciting adventure and it captures the heart of the reader with its beautiful art and creative story telling. Most Asterix titles are aimed at a teen/adult audience and they cleverly integrate many historical events in to their plots. There is also a deeper satirical presence throughout these books, and for that reason I feel that children under the age of 12 or so would not quite appreciate the humor. The violence is more along the lines of black eyes, dented armor and missing teeth, and hence should not worry a parent too much. Overall, this is another amusing tale by maestros, Goscinny and Uderzo.

Asterix to the rescue!
Julius Ceasar has conquered Gaul, almost all of it....except that little village of indominatable Gauls that still holds out. Aided by the magic potion of Druid Getafix that confer's superhuman strength, Asterix and Obelix confound Ceasar's plans in bring them under Pax Romana. In Asterix the Gladiator, the village bard Cacofonix (arguably the worst singer in the world) is kidnapped and scheduled to be thrown to the lions in Rome and the only way Asterix and Obleix can rescue him is by becoming gladiators themselves... This is one of the best in the series. The whole crazy cast of them is there...Vitalstatistix, everyone's favorite chief, Fulliautomatix the blacksmith, Unhygenix the fishmonger....and dont miss Cacofonix's hilarious performance in the arena when he decides to serenade the citizens of Rome. ... Read more

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Reviews (2)

ASterix in Paris!
This is one of my favourite Asterix books.
Asterix and the Golden Sickle was first published in French in 1962 and in English in 1975.
Asterix and Obelix journey to Lutetia (Ancient Paris) to buy a desperately needed Golden Sickle for the Druid Getafix.
On the way there they easily deal with the mobs of bandits that attack them on the road , and also cannot find lodgings at Sundinium (Ancient Le Mans )
because they are there during the great-Ox-Cart race -The Sundinium 24 hours.
When they get to Lutetia they find that finding a sickle will not be so easy and that Obelix's cousin , the great sickle maker Metallurgix is missing .
To get to the bottom of this they must battle against the Lutetia underworld as well as the Roman authorities (and make a journey through the forest that will later become the Bois de Boulogne).
I wont spoil the ending but we all know that every Asterix adventure ends with a feat under the starry sky to welcome our heroes back to the village.

Asterix is great for all ages...
I have been reading about the adventures of Asterix and Obelix for years. I first learned about them while living in Europe and I still have all my copies with me back here in America. It's really hard to rate one over the other. They are all so much fun to read. All their names crack me up. I recommend any Asterix book to anyone of any age! They are all great! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Movie remake
As a child, I read all of the "classic" Asterix books in Swedish. As an adult living in the U.S., I am reading them again to my children, but this time in English. In addition, this time I am also reading the new ones, like this one, and I am still enjoying it.

This should not be your first Asterix book, even though it is still entertaining.The story is an adaptation of two great books "Asterix the Legionary" and "Asterix the Gladiator", but it is not as good as any of those two stories. Negative aspects of this album is; Obelix falls in love (unhappily); Asterix is telling the story instead of it being a story (narrative); the wordiness; lower pun frequency. It also feels less "Asterix-like" for other reasons. However, it is still worthwhile and I have read it several times to my kids (upon request).

In my opinion the best Asterix albums are: Asterix and the Normans; Asterix in Corsica; Obelix and company; Asterix the Gladiator; Asterix the Legionary; Asterix and Cleopatra; Asterix and the Goths; Asterix in Belgium; Asterix and the big fight; and Asterix all around Gaul. The last title is a translation from Swedish and might be wrong.

I find that in general, children the age 5-13 usually really enjoy these books, not just my children. These comic books are a great way to teach children ancient history. Naturally, the adult needs to help with the differentiation between fiction and history. From these books, my kids have learned about the Roman Empire, the ancient Greeks, the Vikings, the Goths, the Phoenicians, ancient Gaul, ancient Egypt, and the ancient Mediterranean world in general.

Not typical
Good-ish book, but lacks the charm of the comics.Asterix doesn't lend itself to narrative form, and that is how this book is presented - with passages told by Asterix and by one of the Roman Officers.It is a transcription of a cartoon movie, more or less, and so is not as creative as the comics or the movie.

Good, but not the best, Asterix book....
It is important to note that this book is based on the film ASTERIX VERSUS CAESAR which, in turn, is based on an adaptation of the books ASTERIX THE GLADIATOR and ASTERIX THE LEGIONARY. So it is three levels of abstractionfrom "original." Also, the format is a linear text supplementedby many really beautiful reproductions of cells from the movie. Although itis beautiful to look at, and possible to read, it lacks much of theessential pacing and timing that Gosciny and Uderzo are such masters ofwhen working in the traditional "panels with word balloons"format of "comic" books. I imagine it's a good companion to thefilm, and it certainly is lovely to look at, but it strikes me as less"essential" than most of the other Asterix books. Buy it if youare a completist... or even if you just happen to have and love a bunch ofthe others. Save it for later if you're just getting acquainted with ourfriends from the small village of indomitable Gauls. ... Read more

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Reviews (2)

A review from Mr. Entertainment Lover
This a book that should keep you entertained. Asterix and Obelix must help a child from Spain get back to his village. On the way there they run into Roman soldiers, pirates, and plenty of adventures filled with laughter andcomedy.

A review from Mr. Entertainment Lover
A funny and charming book in which Asterix must help Pepe get home to his father in Spain. A funny adventure that will you laughing ... Read more

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Reviews (6)

Asterix and Obelix the rescuers
Tip: out of stock does not mean you cannot find it in other bookstores.

As a child, I read all of the "classic" Asterix books in Swedish. As an adult and now living in the U.S., I am reading them again to my children, but this time in English. This is a good classic. In Swedish, this book was called Asterix in Africa, but I read this English version to my children. As others have pointed out, the Asterix books are not very popular in the U.S., but American kids (like mine) are not much different from European kids, so I think someone is missing a business opportunity here. American kids respond positively to these books.

Asterix and Obelix live in a village in Gaul that the Romans failed to conquer. The reason for this is that the village druid knows how to make a magic potion that endows the villagers with super human strength. In this book a villager, Tragicomix, is kidnapped, and later he and his girlfriend are sold as slaves in Rome. Asterix and Obelix set out to find him and rescue him (them), but to do that they have to join the Roman army. Their search leads them to North Africa. It is an interesting and entertaining story full of lighthearted good puns. Thanks to Obelix the Roman army finally got good food.

In general I find that, children the age 5-13 really enjoy these books, and so do my children. Adults can enjoy these books as well. The Asterix comic books are a great way to teach children ancient history. Naturally, the adult needs to help with the differentiation between fiction and history. From these books, my kids have learned about the Roman Empire, the ancient Greeks, the Vikings, the Goths, the Phoenicians, ancient Gaul, ancient Egypt, and the ancient Mediterranean world in general.

My ten year old started loving these books at the age of eight and he cannot get enough of them. My six year old started liking them at the age of five. Even though many Asterix puns may be a little bit above his head, my younger son still loves these stories.

In my opinion the best Asterix albums are: Asterix and the Normans; Asterix in Corsica; Obelix and company; Asterix the Gladiator; Asterix the Legionary; Asterix and Cleopatra; Asterix and the Goths; Asterix in Belgium; Asterix and the big fight; and Asterix all around Gaul. The last title is a translation from Swedish and might be wrong.

Asterix in North Africa
First published in French in 1967 as Astérix légionnaire , it was first published in English in 1970.

Beautiful , young , Panacea returns to the village , after two years studying in Condatum (Rennes) , and Obelix falls head over heels in love with her.
Panacea,however , is engaged to Tragicomix , who has been forcibly conscripted into the Roman army , as part of Julius Caesar' s war effort against the Romans who support Pompey.
Despite Obelix heart being broken by the news of Panacea's engagement,he nonetheless is enough of a gentleman to offer to bring Tragicomix back ...
Once more this is an interesting commentary on Europe at the time of writing , with the Roman Empire being something like the EU today.
In their regiment there is a Greek , a Briton , a Goth (German) , and An Egyptian , as well as a translator , much to the distress of the two Centurions.
This makes for a lot of fun.
Once more we get to see a guest appearance by Julius Caesar.

Witty Comix History
I wonder why Asterix is not better known in the US? Probably because Americans are not comics fans and also are generally ignorant of things European, including European history and culture, which play a big part in the Asterix books. Be that as it may, these comics are extremely well-known outside the US...and for good reason! They are witty, clever, funny, and educational. They are popular with all ages and I loved them as a university student. This one, "Asterix the Legionary," is one of the best. Other great ones are "Asterix the Gladiator," "Asterix and the Big Fight" (le Combat des Chefs), Asterix in Switzerland" (Asterix chez les Helvetes) and "Asterix in Britain" (Asterix chez les Bretons). The stories were written by Goscinny, one of France's best writers of witty children's books (e.g., "Le Petit Nicolas," "Lucky Luke" etc).

These comics have become classics and part of French culture. They were begun in the early 1960s and continue today, with story and drawings by Uderzo, Gosinny's partner. The newer books (the last six or so), written after Gosinny's death, generally lack the intellectual spice and wit of the earlier ones however. As classics, they compare to Herge's Tintin (basically begun in the 1930's) but Asterix is less based on exotic adventures and more concerned with tongue-in-cheek comic treatment of European peoples and history. The background of these adventures is the Roman Empire and Gaul (France) around the time of Julius Caesar. They are educational insofar as one can recognize the many literary, historical, political and cultural allusions in the adventures. Even university professors have written books on Asterix (for instance, "Asterix, the Whole Truth" and "Asterix auf Grosser Fahrt" from professors at the University of Amsterdam, explaining the accuracy of the historical background and the allusions to ancient art, religion, sport etc.).

I've only read Asterix in French and German, but I assume that they are adequately translated into English. In German there are also translations in about 20 different dialects, which are great fun to read! For the real "Romans" among us Asterix is also available in latin..."il sont fous ces romains!"

Asterix the Legionary
The comic book I purchased was translated by a Robert Caron in the 1990s. I much preferred the version translated by Anthea Bell and Derek Hockridge in the 1970s. The newer translation is nowhere near as funny as the older one. I wish they had never tampered with the original English translation.

hours of fun!!!
Probably the most hilarious Asterix book! Fun Fun & Fun ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

Asterix and the Tour of Gaul!
First published in French in 1965 as Le tour de Gaule d'Astérix , it was first published in English in 1979. An action pact , fun filled adventure , Asterix and Obelix tour Gaul (Ancient France) in order to win a bet to prove to the Roman occupiers that Gaul is their country and that they will go where they like in it.
The proof is food specialities from all over Gaul which is to be presented in a banquet. Naturally the Romans pull out all stops to stop our friends but as always (and as we shall see in the adventure ) the Gauls are irreperessible.

We get to see what Ancient Gaul in the minds of the writers looked like . This may have been a parody of France in 1965!

Short journey into the Psyche of French People!
The humorous depiction of the adventures of the inhabitants of one small village in Gaul, (modern day France) which defies roman occupation in 50 BC with the superhuman power of a magic potion. Its full of beautiful visuals and excellent pun, especially the play of words in conversation and names of characters. Its gentle satire pokes fun on modern life, art and politics with caricatures of Napoleon, Shakespeare, Zorro and even James Bond!

An excellent addition for your collection. Also very good introduction if you are unfamiliar with Asterix & his adventures. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (7)

Save the druid!
As a child, I read all of the "classic" Asterix books in Swedish. As an adult living in the U.S., I am reading them again to my children, but this time in English. This is an old classic, and a good one.

Asterix and Obelix live in a village in Gaul that the Romans failed to conquer. The reason for this is that the village druid knows how make a magic potion that that endows the villagers with super human strength. In this book the druid is kidnapped by Goths (ancient Germans) who wants to use his potion in war of conquest. The story is spellbinding at the same time as it is full of puns, and lighthearted jokes.

I find that in general, children the age 5-13 usually really enjoy these books, not just my children. Adults can enjoy these books as well. The Asterix comic books are a great way to teach children ancient history. Naturally, the adult needs to help with the differentiation between fiction and history. From these books, my kids have learned about the Roman Empire, the ancient Greeks, the Vikings, the Goths, the Phoenicians, ancient Gaul, ancient Egypt, and the ancient Mediterranean world in general.

My ten year old started loving these books at the age of eight and he cannot get enough of them. My six year old started liking them at the age of five. Even though many Asterix puns may be a little bit above his head, my younger son still loves these stories.

In my opinion the best Asterix albums are: Asterix and the Normans; Asterix in Corsica; Obelix and company; Asterix the Gladiator; Asterix the Legionary; Asterix and Cleopatra; Asterix and the Goths; Asterix in Belgium; Asterix and the big fight; and Asterix all around Gaul. The last title is a translation from Swedish and might be wrong.

Axterix vs. a nation of goosestepping morons
Getafix(in other Asterix books Magigimmix), the village druid, is captured by a cohort of Visigoths("Why the past tense?")on his way home from the annual Druid Conference. His friends, Asterix and Obelix, embark on a journey to save their buddy. The Romans, in their typical bullheadedness, muddle things up in their search for the Goths.
This is a story filled with wit, hilarious names, funny wordplay, and nice artwork. Notice the Goths' WW1 style helmets.
This book was made when computers were not, and the color is done by hand. However, there are many uncolored spots in the book, hence the 4 stars.
I love this book. I recommend it to anyone.

Asterix in Germany
First published in French in 1963 as Astérix et les Goths, it was first published in English in 1974.
Asterix and Obelix accompany Druid Getafix to the Annual Conference of Druids, where Getafix is captured by Goths.
After causing much confusion among the Romans in Eastern Gaul, they sneak into Germania to rescue the Druid, and cause great strife among the Goths, ensuring that by the time they leave , the Goths will be very busy, warring with each other, indeed.
As always Goscinny and Uderzo poke fun at the various peoples of Europe, this time is the turn of the Germans, but it is done in good humor, that everyone can appreciate, and should offend no one. And what's more you get to learn all about the history of Ancient Germania.

ASTERIX AND THE GOTHS
Yet another wonderfull asterix book for you all to read they are amazing books and i strongly reccomend them to all ages.This book was great a really good story line...very witty and amusing

Gauls, Goths and Germania...
What do you get when you kidnap a Gaulish druid? A bloody hard pounding. And you can be sure that Asterix and Obelix will be laying them out in style. In this highly amusing tale from Uderzo and Goscinny, the druid, Getafix, is kidnapped by Goths who want the formula to the magic potion. Unfortunately for them, they underestimate the Gauls' code of loyalty. Asterix, the little, Roman terrorizer, and Obelix, the huge menhir carrier, take off to Germania, disguised as Romans, to teach the Goths a lesson or two in manners. One bout leads to another and the Romans, Goths and Gauls find themselves in hilarious situations! Your European history might come in a little handy for this entertaining one, but if you didn't take good notes in school, don't fret because you'd smile just as wide... A truly delightful romp for all ages!

Most Asterix titles are aimed at a teen/adult audience and they cleverly integrate many historical events in to their plots. There is also a deeper satirical presence throughout these books, and for that reason I feel that children under the age of 12 or so would not quite appreciate the humor. The violence is more along the lines of black eyes, dented armor and missing teeth, and hence should not worry a parent too much. ... Read more