OTHER PHANTOM BOOKS

Not only reprints of the original novel are in existence. Illustrated version of the books, guides, and adaptations exist in abundance. This listings give author, title, date published, city of publisher and publisher in that order. If applicable, the reprint date is also given.

Caruso, Joseph George. The Phantom of the Old Opera House: A Comedy-Musical in Three Acts 1982. Texas: I. E. Clark Publications. This script of a musical comedy makes for a good read. The pacing is just right and the characters are well rendered. The Phantom himself is, well, the Phantom! Paperback, 48 pages, including a layout of the sets and prop suggestions.

Perry, George. The Complete Phantom of the Opera 1987. New York, Henry Holt and Company. A lush example of good taste, this book provides the reader with much background information not only about Leroux himself, but also of the novel, the musical, the films and more. Of course, due to the time it was written some newer films and musical versions are not covered, but it would be impossible for any compilation to be current for long. Hardback, drawings and color photos, 167 pages.

Miller, Judi. Phantom of the Soap Opera 1988. New York, Dell Publishing. Poor Noonie. Nobody loves him. Not his Mama, not the woman who runs the orphanage, nobody. One day he’ll show them just how lovable he is. A clever reworking of the original story, setting it in more modern times, this novel works well. However, the story focuses more on the emotions and relationships of the Phantom rather than any dalliances with a lover. Paperback, 364 pages.

Kay, Susan. Phantom 1991. New York: Dell Publishing. Considered by many fans to be the only retelling of Erik’s life worthy of consideration, this novel follows Erik’s journey from childhood to opera house, taking some detours along the way. This book differs from Leroux’s work and the Phantom seems to be a combination of Leroux’s character and Webber’s creation. Still, a good creative effort, and the authoress does acknowledge her interpretations in her notes. Paperback, 532 pages.

Pratchett, Terry. Maskerade 1998, New York, HarperTorch. This novel comes from the DISCWORLD series, and is a good example of what a master craftsman can do with the English language. Funny at times, and downright viscous in others, the novel follows the introduction of a new opera singer into the Phantom’s opera house, where she meets resistance for her womanly size and applause for her voice.

Riley, Philip J. The Phantom of the Opera New Jersey, MagicImage Filmbooks. 1999. The first volume in the series of Classic Silents books has everything a fan of the Chaney film could wish for. The complete press book and shooting script along with numerous photos and other articles are included. The script itself gives readers a glimpse int what the movie was meant to be, and various interviews delve into the movie’s mysteries. Paperback, 317 pages.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera Companion Pavillion, 2004. Film fans of the world unite! This beautiful book follows the Phantom from Leroux’s pen to the silver screen and beyond. The final section contains an interview with the director and the original screenplay. Soft back, 144 pages.

Masks and Roses Lulu.com Rose Black 2008. A stronger, darker Phantom with a new woman. Will his destructive tendencies tame her, or will she kill him? Very dark and funny, with lots of manga action. Finally a heroine that can fight back. Brilliant. Paperback, 125 pages.

BOOKS ON TAPE AND CD

Forsyth, Frederick. The Phantom of Manhattan 1999. California: New Star Media Inc. The unabridged version of Forsyth’s novel, dramatized on four CDs and featuring Roger Rees as the Phantom is enjoyable and perfect to listen to at home or on the go. The storyline is based on what could have happened after Webber’s musical though, and not in any way linked to the Leroux storyline. 4 hours.

Return Home
Phantom Links