Jennifer Strange

Jennifer Strange, written and illustrated by Cat Scully, was published in 2019 by YAP Books. The work is a reimagining of the classic gothic novel Jane Eyre, shifting the narrative framework into a contemporary graphic novel format. Scully, known for her background in both fine art and storytelling, sought to distill the intense atmosphere and emotional depth of Bronte’s original text into a visual medium that emphasizes the dark, brooding aesthetic of the Victorian source material.

The project emerged during a period of renewed interest in graphic adaptations of literary classics, aiming to bridge the gap for younger readers or those seeking a stylized, modern interpretation of canonical works. Scully’s artistic approach focuses on expressive character design and a somber, muted color palette to convey the isolation and internal conflict central to the story. Upon its release, the book was noted for its distinct departure from traditional illustration styles, serving as both an homage to the classic gothic tradition and an exercise in personal artistic interpretation.