Abu and the Seven Marvels

Published 2002

WINNER OF THE 2003 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN AWARD FOR JUVENILE FICTION

INCLUDED ON FALL 2002 CHILDREN’S BOOK SENSE 76 LIST

NOMINATED FOR 2003 HWA STOKER AWARD FOR BEST YOUNG ADULT BOOK

NOMINATED FOR THE CHESLEY AWARD: BEST INTERIOR ILLUSTRATION

Gauntlet presents Richard Matheson’s previously unpublished novel for Young Adults, ABU AND THE 7 MARVELS. Like Y/A novels by Stephen King and Dean Koontz this is actually a book for Matheson fans of ALL ages.

The novel revolves around the quest for the 7 marvels of the world, which Abu must find to win the hand of the princess he loves. He’s thwarted every step of the way by the evil Vicar, but has the help of one of Matheson’s most memorable characters, an ancient genie whose best days are far behind him. A crotchety old codger, the genie nevertheless meets Abu’s needs, though the accommodations are not first class (a magic rug that unravels and a swaybacked horse just to name a couple). Matheson’s fertile imagination really shines in this wonderful tale that is bound to become a timeless classic.

ABU is lavishly illustrated by acclaimed artist William Stout. Best known for his realistic dinosaurs, wildlife and fantasy paintings, his designs and creations have been used by Disney for their film “Dinosaurs”, and his book The Little Blue Brontosaurus was the basis for Lucas and Spielberg’s “The Land Before Time” films. A long time professional illustrator, Stout began his career in the sixties with pulps and comics. He then moved into the film industry, creating everything from posters to movie set and creature design for films, including “Men in Black” and “Masters of the Universe,” plus working as the full production designer for “Return of the Living Dead.”

Not only did Stout create a wonderful full-color cover for ABU, but there are also 8 full-color interior illustrations and 19 half-page black and white drawings illustrating every chapter.

Available to purchase for this title:

Limited - 350-copy signed numbered edition housed in handmade bonded leather slipcase for the numbered edition
Lettered - 52-copy signed traycased lettered edition
Artist - 52-copy signed “Artist’s Presentation” edition housed in a nicer traycase than the lettered and includes a special signature card on the left side of the open traycase lettered and signed by the artist , comes with a suite of 9 color prints contained in the book, the inset on the cover  of the book has a different picture (from page 101) then found on the numbered and lettered and contains a special signature page