A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

Typical Romans, 01 Nov 2007
I think this book is for 8+ year olds because there are very hard words to read and understand.
Do you want get all of the books like me? (this is only number 1!)
Asterix and his village are based in France 1000 years ago.The Romans try to attack, but always fail because Obelix, Asterix's best friend, mainly fights them away. He can do this on his own because when he was a baby he fell into a cauldren with a liquid that makes you stronger. Asterix has to drink the potion from a bottle like everyone else but it runs out quickly. The Romans got tired of being beaten up. So Julius Caesar has a plan to trick them by dressing one of the Romans like a Gaul!

The 1st Asterix book, 07 May 2006
The very first Asterix book is a must for anyone who wants to read all the Asterix books. But for those who just want to read one, this may not be for you. The drawing is far cruder than the other books, and the plot is a little thin, although the story introduces all of the characters (except Dogmatix). Maybe not for the newcomer to the Asterix world (because after reading this you may not want to stay), although if you wish to read them all, read this one first.

A Decent Introduction, 05 Nov 2005
I'm a big fan of the series, 'Cleopatra' and 'in Britain' being perhaps the two best of all. It's interesting to see the visual appearance of the characters change through the first half of the book until they reach their final - and best - look.
I'm just writing this to point out that most reviews here seem overpraising. Though good, this is one of the worst of the series, with not much in the way of plot or the ingenuity that at least a few dozen others are full of. If you want to read one Asterix book to see what the fuss is about, it's best to start with another, then read this for completion later on.

The only thing this lot are scared of is the sky falling in!, 05 Aug 2005
I grew up with Asterix and Tin-Tin books, and love them to bits even now, many moons later. If anyone doubts their effect in the encouragment of reading 'real' books, the one things both those titles have in common is a thumping good story, (pun intended,)excitement and enough words to ensure that this is not just a comic. I read these alongside books, not instead of. In fact I just ordered this for my 8 year old son, who is nuts about books, whether they have pictures in or not.

I do wonder though how well these books would have been received in this anti-drug and doping era we now live in? After all, the Gauls do become much stronger after a good dose of 'Magic Medicine'!

I shall be building up our collection of these once more, replacing my much lamented lost books from my childhood...

A great pair of heroes, 11 Mar 2005
This is Asterix's 1st adventure. It's fabulous. My favourite bit is when Getafix says the Gaulish swearwords (the swearwords aren't writing,its just pictures). I also really like the ending, when the Romans fall over. Now, Asterix has turned into my new hero and I am definitely going to read more of Asterix and his friend Obelix. The pictures are very good too.

.

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

Typical Romans, 01 Nov 2007
I think this book is for 8+ year olds because there are very hard words to read and understand.
Do you want get all of the books like me? (this is only number 1!)
Asterix and his village are based in France 1000 years ago.The Romans try to attack, but always fail because Obelix, Asterix's best friend, mainly fights them away. He can do this on his own because when he was a baby he fell into a cauldren with a liquid that makes you stronger. Asterix has to drink the potion from a bottle like everyone else but it runs out quickly. The Romans got tired of being beaten up. So Julius Caesar has a plan to trick them by dressing one of the Romans like a Gaul!

The 1st Asterix book, 07 May 2006
The very first Asterix book is a must for anyone who wants to read all the Asterix books. But for those who just want to read one, this may not be for you. The drawing is far cruder than the other books, and the plot is a little thin, although the story introduces all of the characters (except Dogmatix). Maybe not for the newcomer to the Asterix world (because after reading this you may not want to stay), although if you wish to read them all, read this one first.

A Decent Introduction, 05 Nov 2005
I'm a big fan of the series, 'Cleopatra' and 'in Britain' being perhaps the two best of all. It's interesting to see the visual appearance of the characters change through the first half of the book until they reach their final - and best - look.
I'm just writing this to point out that most reviews here seem overpraising. Though good, this is one of the worst of the series, with not much in the way of plot or the ingenuity that at least a few dozen others are full of. If you want to read one Asterix book to see what the fuss is about, it's best to start with another, then read this for completion later on.

The only thing this lot are scared of is the sky falling in!, 05 Aug 2005
I grew up with Asterix and Tin-Tin books, and love them to bits even now, many moons later. If anyone doubts their effect in the encouragment of reading 'real' books, the one things both those titles have in common is a thumping good story, (pun intended,)excitement and enough words to ensure that this is not just a comic. I read these alongside books, not instead of. In fact I just ordered this for my 8 year old son, who is nuts about books, whether they have pictures in or not.

I do wonder though how well these books would have been received in this anti-drug and doping era we now live in? After all, the Gauls do become much stronger after a good dose of 'Magic Medicine'!

I shall be building up our collection of these once more, replacing my much lamented lost books from my childhood...

A great pair of heroes, 11 Mar 2005
This is Asterix's 1st adventure. It's fabulous. My favourite bit is when Getafix says the Gaulish swearwords (the swearwords aren't writing,its just pictures). I also really like the ending, when the Romans fall over. Now, Asterix has turned into my new hero and I am definitely going to read more of Asterix and his friend Obelix. The pictures are very good too.

.

Good to middling adventure, 27 Aug 2007
Good, but not one of the best, in my mind. A rather small story gets our heroes a bit hemmed in. I agree the satire is good, and way too subtle and worldly for ten year olds, that's why these books were always as much for the parents as they were the kids.

Simply the best, 27 Mar 2006
I loved Asterix when I was a boy, now my son loves them. Of all the books this is the one I remember most fondly. It has some of the very best characters, classical allusions and gags. And all so educational too..

Asterix competes for Olympic glory, 03 Sep 2004
'Asterix at the Olympic Games' is the 12th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1968, now re-released in a re-inked and re-coloured edition. The story is set in the time of the ancient Athens Olympics (and this review is written during the modern Athens Olympics). The Gauls travel to Greece to compete in the Games, intending to win a Palm of Victory with the use of their magic potion. A classic adventure, which I would rate in the top 10 stories. Highlights include the Gauls travelling to Greece, behaving as if they are on an 18-90 holiday; The demoralising of the Roman athletes; The picturesque descriptions of the local Greek populace and the Olympic stadia. There is satirical comment on drug taking in Sport, and thirty years after first reading this book, I finally got the joke about the athlete from Rhodes. This adventure is so good because it has a strong story, in which not everything appears to go the Gauls' own way. This re-inked and re-coloured edition improves little on the original 1972 UK edition, but is still fresh and pleasant.

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

Typical Romans, 01 Nov 2007
I think this book is for 8+ year olds because there are very hard words to read and understand.
Do you want get all of the books like me? (this is only number 1!)
Asterix and his village are based in France 1000 years ago.The Romans try to attack, but always fail because Obelix, Asterix's best friend, mainly fights them away. He can do this on his own because when he was a baby he fell into a cauldren with a liquid that makes you stronger. Asterix has to drink the potion from a bottle like everyone else but it runs out quickly. The Romans got tired of being beaten up. So Julius Caesar has a plan to trick them by dressing one of the Romans like a Gaul!

The 1st Asterix book, 07 May 2006
The very first Asterix book is a must for anyone who wants to read all the Asterix books. But for those who just want to read one, this may not be for you. The drawing is far cruder than the other books, and the plot is a little thin, although the story introduces all of the characters (except Dogmatix). Maybe not for the newcomer to the Asterix world (because after reading this you may not want to stay), although if you wish to read them all, read this one first.

A Decent Introduction, 05 Nov 2005
I'm a big fan of the series, 'Cleopatra' and 'in Britain' being perhaps the two best of all. It's interesting to see the visual appearance of the characters change through the first half of the book until they reach their final - and best - look.
I'm just writing this to point out that most reviews here seem overpraising. Though good, this is one of the worst of the series, with not much in the way of plot or the ingenuity that at least a few dozen others are full of. If you want to read one Asterix book to see what the fuss is about, it's best to start with another, then read this for completion later on.

The only thing this lot are scared of is the sky falling in!, 05 Aug 2005
I grew up with Asterix and Tin-Tin books, and love them to bits even now, many moons later. If anyone doubts their effect in the encouragment of reading 'real' books, the one things both those titles have in common is a thumping good story, (pun intended,)excitement and enough words to ensure that this is not just a comic. I read these alongside books, not instead of. In fact I just ordered this for my 8 year old son, who is nuts about books, whether they have pictures in or not.

I do wonder though how well these books would have been received in this anti-drug and doping era we now live in? After all, the Gauls do become much stronger after a good dose of 'Magic Medicine'!

I shall be building up our collection of these once more, replacing my much lamented lost books from my childhood...

A great pair of heroes, 11 Mar 2005
This is Asterix's 1st adventure. It's fabulous. My favourite bit is when Getafix says the Gaulish swearwords (the swearwords aren't writing,its just pictures). I also really like the ending, when the Romans fall over. Now, Asterix has turned into my new hero and I am definitely going to read more of Asterix and his friend Obelix. The pictures are very good too.

.

Good to middling adventure, 27 Aug 2007
Good, but not one of the best, in my mind. A rather small story gets our heroes a bit hemmed in. I agree the satire is good, and way too subtle and worldly for ten year olds, that's why these books were always as much for the parents as they were the kids.

Simply the best, 27 Mar 2006
I loved Asterix when I was a boy, now my son loves them. Of all the books this is the one I remember most fondly. It has some of the very best characters, classical allusions and gags. And all so educational too..

Asterix competes for Olympic glory, 03 Sep 2004
'Asterix at the Olympic Games' is the 12th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1968, now re-released in a re-inked and re-coloured edition. The story is set in the time of the ancient Athens Olympics (and this review is written during the modern Athens Olympics). The Gauls travel to Greece to compete in the Games, intending to win a Palm of Victory with the use of their magic potion. A classic adventure, which I would rate in the top 10 stories. Highlights include the Gauls travelling to Greece, behaving as if they are on an 18-90 holiday; The demoralising of the Roman athletes; The picturesque descriptions of the local Greek populace and the Olympic stadia. There is satirical comment on drug taking in Sport, and thirty years after first reading this book, I finally got the joke about the athlete from Rhodes. This adventure is so good because it has a strong story, in which not everything appears to go the Gauls' own way. This re-inked and re-coloured edition improves little on the original 1972 UK edition, but is still fresh and pleasant.

Didn't they base a hollywood movie on this one?, 28 Aug 2007
One of the top contenders for best in series sees our fearless heroes set off to the depraved circuses of Rome on their most noble mission of all: To rescue the kidknapped bard whose singing none of them can stand, but who, regardless of that, is still one of them! Has some great scenes and is very well conceived.

I am Asterix the Gaul, and I will have my Druid back., 08 Aug 2004
'Asterix the Gladiator' is the 4th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1964. It has it all: Bad singing, a unique use for Parsley, a Chariot race to equal Ben Hur and cutting edge Gladiator training (minus Russell Crowe). Asterix and Obelix travel to Rome to rescue their Druid Cacofonix from a fatal encounter with the Lions in the Colloseum. Cocofonix is treated with serious disrespect most of the time because of his appalling singing, but the Gauls pull together when 'one of their own' is under threat. There is no real peril for Cacofonix as we know that rescue is inevitably on the way. As usual, Asterix and Obelix impose their Gallic attitude wherever they are; the Romans just have to make way (as does the water in the Roman baths). This is the best adventure yet, and for me rates in the top 10 of the 31 adventures. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition brings new life to the story. My original 1969 edition was not badly produced, but clothing colour was originally inconsistent with later adventures, and this has now been corrected. Fully deserving of five stars.

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

Typical Romans, 01 Nov 2007
I think this book is for 8+ year olds because there are very hard words to read and understand.
Do you want get all of the books like me? (this is only number 1!)
Asterix and his village are based in France 1000 years ago.The Romans try to attack, but always fail because Obelix, Asterix's best friend, mainly fights them away. He can do this on his own because when he was a baby he fell into a cauldren with a liquid that makes you stronger. Asterix has to drink the potion from a bottle like everyone else but it runs out quickly. The Romans got tired of being beaten up. So Julius Caesar has a plan to trick them by dressing one of the Romans like a Gaul!

The 1st Asterix book, 07 May 2006
The very first Asterix book is a must for anyone who wants to read all the Asterix books. But for those who just want to read one, this may not be for you. The drawing is far cruder than the other books, and the plot is a little thin, although the story introduces all of the characters (except Dogmatix). Maybe not for the newcomer to the Asterix world (because after reading this you may not want to stay), although if you wish to read them all, read this one first.

A Decent Introduction, 05 Nov 2005
I'm a big fan of the series, 'Cleopatra' and 'in Britain' being perhaps the two best of all. It's interesting to see the visual appearance of the characters change through the first half of the book until they reach their final - and best - look.
I'm just writing this to point out that most reviews here seem overpraising. Though good, this is one of the worst of the series, with not much in the way of plot or the ingenuity that at least a few dozen others are full of. If you want to read one Asterix book to see what the fuss is about, it's best to start with another, then read this for completion later on.

The only thing this lot are scared of is the sky falling in!, 05 Aug 2005
I grew up with Asterix and Tin-Tin books, and love them to bits even now, many moons later. If anyone doubts their effect in the encouragment of reading 'real' books, the one things both those titles have in common is a thumping good story, (pun intended,)excitement and enough words to ensure that this is not just a comic. I read these alongside books, not instead of. In fact I just ordered this for my 8 year old son, who is nuts about books, whether they have pictures in or not.

I do wonder though how well these books would have been received in this anti-drug and doping era we now live in? After all, the Gauls do become much stronger after a good dose of 'Magic Medicine'!

I shall be building up our collection of these once more, replacing my much lamented lost books from my childhood...

A great pair of heroes, 11 Mar 2005
This is Asterix's 1st adventure. It's fabulous. My favourite bit is when Getafix says the Gaulish swearwords (the swearwords aren't writing,its just pictures). I also really like the ending, when the Romans fall over. Now, Asterix has turned into my new hero and I am definitely going to read more of Asterix and his friend Obelix. The pictures are very good too.

.

Good to middling adventure, 27 Aug 2007
Good, but not one of the best, in my mind. A rather small story gets our heroes a bit hemmed in. I agree the satire is good, and way too subtle and worldly for ten year olds, that's why these books were always as much for the parents as they were the kids.

Simply the best, 27 Mar 2006
I loved Asterix when I was a boy, now my son loves them. Of all the books this is the one I remember most fondly. It has some of the very best characters, classical allusions and gags. And all so educational too..

Asterix competes for Olympic glory, 03 Sep 2004
'Asterix at the Olympic Games' is the 12th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1968, now re-released in a re-inked and re-coloured edition. The story is set in the time of the ancient Athens Olympics (and this review is written during the modern Athens Olympics). The Gauls travel to Greece to compete in the Games, intending to win a Palm of Victory with the use of their magic potion. A classic adventure, which I would rate in the top 10 stories. Highlights include the Gauls travelling to Greece, behaving as if they are on an 18-90 holiday; The demoralising of the Roman athletes; The picturesque descriptions of the local Greek populace and the Olympic stadia. There is satirical comment on drug taking in Sport, and thirty years after first reading this book, I finally got the joke about the athlete from Rhodes. This adventure is so good because it has a strong story, in which not everything appears to go the Gauls' own way. This re-inked and re-coloured edition improves little on the original 1972 UK edition, but is still fresh and pleasant.

Didn't they base a hollywood movie on this one?, 28 Aug 2007
One of the top contenders for best in series sees our fearless heroes set off to the depraved circuses of Rome on their most noble mission of all: To rescue the kidknapped bard whose singing none of them can stand, but who, regardless of that, is still one of them! Has some great scenes and is very well conceived.

I am Asterix the Gaul, and I will have my Druid back., 08 Aug 2004
'Asterix the Gladiator' is the 4th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1964. It has it all: Bad singing, a unique use for Parsley, a Chariot race to equal Ben Hur and cutting edge Gladiator training (minus Russell Crowe). Asterix and Obelix travel to Rome to rescue their Druid Cacofonix from a fatal encounter with the Lions in the Colloseum. Cocofonix is treated with serious disrespect most of the time because of his appalling singing, but the Gauls pull together when 'one of their own' is under threat. There is no real peril for Cacofonix as we know that rescue is inevitably on the way. As usual, Asterix and Obelix impose their Gallic attitude wherever they are; the Romans just have to make way (as does the water in the Roman baths). This is the best adventure yet, and for me rates in the top 10 of the 31 adventures. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition brings new life to the story. My original 1969 edition was not badly produced, but clothing colour was originally inconsistent with later adventures, and this has now been corrected. Fully deserving of five stars.

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

Great Short Stories, 07 Oct 2007
First I need to start off by saying that I am a big fan of the Asterix series. And I found these stories very entertaining. Though first published in English in 2003. This set of stories was originally published in French in 1996. And was a huge success.

The book contains fourteen tales, including: The day Asterix and Oblix were born; How Oblix goes back to school; Fashion in Ancient Gaul; How Dogmatix helps the village cockerel win a duel; How Dogmatix is adopted as a Roman mascot; Asterix as you have never seen him before; Obelix's adventures under the mistletoe; The bid for the first Gaulish Olympics; The story of the creation of Asterix; The family tree of Obelix; and much more. Pick up this fun and book.


asterix and obelix -the beginning, 06 Dec 2003
short stories giving history on how these boys met and became the heroes they are. quite interesting to have and read up on them.

Asterix and the Class Act, 13 Nov 2003
This is an absolute gem of a book for all those die-hard Asterix fans! A collection of fourteen 'new' short stories which were published as comic strips in varoius magazines and newspapers over the years. The operative word here is 'short' which was a bit of a dissapointment to me as I like to read lengthier stories. The short write-ups at the beginning of each story gives the reader the history behind each story. The book includes 'Chanticleerix' written by Albert Uderzo this year (2003) is a wonderful new short story about the cockerel 'Chanticleerix', with a big attitute, the kind you could only see in Gaul! 56 wonderful pages of the well loved characters, we could only hope for more of these!

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

Typical Romans, 01 Nov 2007
I think this book is for 8+ year olds because there are very hard words to read and understand.
Do you want get all of the books like me? (this is only number 1!)
Asterix and his village are based in France 1000 years ago.The Romans try to attack, but always fail because Obelix, Asterix's best friend, mainly fights them away. He can do this on his own because when he was a baby he fell into a cauldren with a liquid that makes you stronger. Asterix has to drink the potion from a bottle like everyone else but it runs out quickly. The Romans got tired of being beaten up. So Julius Caesar has a plan to trick them by dressing one of the Romans like a Gaul!

The 1st Asterix book, 07 May 2006
The very first Asterix book is a must for anyone who wants to read all the Asterix books. But for those who just want to read one, this may not be for you. The drawing is far cruder than the other books, and the plot is a little thin, although the story introduces all of the characters (except Dogmatix). Maybe not for the newcomer to the Asterix world (because after reading this you may not want to stay), although if you wish to read them all, read this one first.

A Decent Introduction, 05 Nov 2005
I'm a big fan of the series, 'Cleopatra' and 'in Britain' being perhaps the two best of all. It's interesting to see the visual appearance of the characters change through the first half of the book until they reach their final - and best - look.
I'm just writing this to point out that most reviews here seem overpraising. Though good, this is one of the worst of the series, with not much in the way of plot or the ingenuity that at least a few dozen others are full of. If you want to read one Asterix book to see what the fuss is about, it's best to start with another, then read this for completion later on.

The only thing this lot are scared of is the sky falling in!, 05 Aug 2005
I grew up with Asterix and Tin-Tin books, and love them to bits even now, many moons later. If anyone doubts their effect in the encouragment of reading 'real' books, the one things both those titles have in common is a thumping good story, (pun intended,)excitement and enough words to ensure that this is not just a comic. I read these alongside books, not instead of. In fact I just ordered this for my 8 year old son, who is nuts about books, whether they have pictures in or not.

I do wonder though how well these books would have been received in this anti-drug and doping era we now live in? After all, the Gauls do become much stronger after a good dose of 'Magic Medicine'!

I shall be building up our collection of these once more, replacing my much lamented lost books from my childhood...

A great pair of heroes, 11 Mar 2005
This is Asterix's 1st adventure. It's fabulous. My favourite bit is when Getafix says the Gaulish swearwords (the swearwords aren't writing,its just pictures). I also really like the ending, when the Romans fall over. Now, Asterix has turned into my new hero and I am definitely going to read more of Asterix and his friend Obelix. The pictures are very good too.

.

Good to middling adventure, 27 Aug 2007
Good, but not one of the best, in my mind. A rather small story gets our heroes a bit hemmed in. I agree the satire is good, and way too subtle and worldly for ten year olds, that's why these books were always as much for the parents as they were the kids.

Simply the best, 27 Mar 2006
I loved Asterix when I was a boy, now my son loves them. Of all the books this is the one I remember most fondly. It has some of the very best characters, classical allusions and gags. And all so educational too..

Asterix competes for Olympic glory, 03 Sep 2004
'Asterix at the Olympic Games' is the 12th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1968, now re-released in a re-inked and re-coloured edition. The story is set in the time of the ancient Athens Olympics (and this review is written during the modern Athens Olympics). The Gauls travel to Greece to compete in the Games, intending to win a Palm of Victory with the use of their magic potion. A classic adventure, which I would rate in the top 10 stories. Highlights include the Gauls travelling to Greece, behaving as if they are on an 18-90 holiday; The demoralising of the Roman athletes; The picturesque descriptions of the local Greek populace and the Olympic stadia. There is satirical comment on drug taking in Sport, and thirty years after first reading this book, I finally got the joke about the athlete from Rhodes. This adventure is so good because it has a strong story, in which not everything appears to go the Gauls' own way. This re-inked and re-coloured edition improves little on the original 1972 UK edition, but is still fresh and pleasant.

Didn't they base a hollywood movie on this one?, 28 Aug 2007
One of the top contenders for best in series sees our fearless heroes set off to the depraved circuses of Rome on their most noble mission of all: To rescue the kidknapped bard whose singing none of them can stand, but who, regardless of that, is still one of them! Has some great scenes and is very well conceived.

I am Asterix the Gaul, and I will have my Druid back., 08 Aug 2004
'Asterix the Gladiator' is the 4th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1964. It has it all: Bad singing, a unique use for Parsley, a Chariot race to equal Ben Hur and cutting edge Gladiator training (minus Russell Crowe). Asterix and Obelix travel to Rome to rescue their Druid Cacofonix from a fatal encounter with the Lions in the Colloseum. Cocofonix is treated with serious disrespect most of the time because of his appalling singing, but the Gauls pull together when 'one of their own' is under threat. There is no real peril for Cacofonix as we know that rescue is inevitably on the way. As usual, Asterix and Obelix impose their Gallic attitude wherever they are; the Romans just have to make way (as does the water in the Roman baths). This is the best adventure yet, and for me rates in the top 10 of the 31 adventures. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition brings new life to the story. My original 1969 edition was not badly produced, but clothing colour was originally inconsistent with later adventures, and this has now been corrected. Fully deserving of five stars.

Time has not aged these great tales!, 02 Feb 2008
I grew up on Asterix, reading tattered, well-thumbed editions from the local library, so when I saw these were being reissued in new editions I was curious whether I would still enjoy them as much as I did when I was a child. Needless to say I did and time has not aged these great tales!

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by Goscinny, in any case), the action comes at a furious pace, and the jokes are, as ever, a delight. How Bell and Hockridge (the English translators) do it is beyond me. And it's even educational - thanks to the frequent Latin tags (yes, it is funnier if you learn what they say and where they come from).

As with most Asterix books, this one can be read on several levels. Certainly, when I reread an Asterix book, I almost always find that I understand some reference or allusion for the first time (have a look at shape of the building behind the garden of the Briton who gets involved in the chariot chase!).

Most Asterix books have one particularly memorable scene - in this case, it's the rugby match (Obelix, naturally, has now found a reason to like Britain). All sorts of things going on (including in the background, a sure sign of a good cartoon), loads of people involved, mostly at cross-purposes, fights - you name it, really. Only three points for a try in those days, I notice...

If you've never read an Asterix book, you've missed a great deal. Try this one (especially if you're British yourself) and you'll see what I mean.

A rollicking adventure through a strange land, 28 Aug 2007
Not the best written story, it's not very inventive and feels quite loose, but is still very satirical, with plenty of references to our very different customs. Our Gallic heroes seem to get quite cross after a while with their cousins from across the water, for being so...well, English! A pacy adventure through Ancient Britain, complete with warm beer and strange customs. Very popular here, for obvious reasons, but I'm not sure if this is even in my top ten.

Jolly good Asterix adventure, what., 14 Aug 2004
'Asterix in Britain' is the 8th of 31 adventures published between 1961and 2001; This adventure is from 1966. This is a classic adventure set in Britain. Britain has been conquered by the Romans, except for one village in Cantium (Kent). Asterix and Obelix travel to Britain to help the village with a barrel of magic potion. The jokes come thick and fast. The Britons serve their Boar boiled, served with Mint sauce and drink warm beer (To the disgust of our heroes). Britain is lovingly reproduced: Everything stopping at 5.00 for a nice cup of hot water (with a spot of milk). The enthusiastic Gardner who will not have people walking on his grass; The Roman army in beer drinking exercises. Obelix impacting a Rugby match; The hilarious efforts of Asterix and Obelix to find each other in the Tower of London. I consider this adventure in the top 10. This new re-inked and re-coloured edition breathes fresh life into this excellent story.

Amusing, educational and intelligent., 17 Nov 2000
I had never been much of a fan of Asterix (but for some reason liked Tintin) until I was writing a supposedly much more serious book on London's archaeology earlier this year, and decided to look at how different authors (both academic and popular) had imagined Roman London in the past. When I read Asterix in Britain I was astonished not only by how good the story and artwork was, but at the remarkable coincidences between Goscinny and Uderzo's depiction of Londinium and what we have actually excavated in recent years - including streets, buildings and details like timber doors just like the one knocked down by Obelix on p. 33. The similarities were almost too good to be true, so I asked for permission to use some of the images in the archaeology book called 'Heart of the City'. The publishers kindly agreed and as a result Asterix drawings can now be directly compared to real Roman buildings and other finds discovered in London in the 1990s. What greater recommendation can it have then one from the unlikely source of a London archaeologist. Mind you we still haven't found evidence for double-decker chariots. Up Britannia!

excellent read, extreamly funny,YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK, 17 Oct 2000
You wont stop laughing for ages.Fun for kids and adults.You'd be an idiot no to buy this classic.

One of the most enjoyable of the lot., 10 May 2000
The brilliant Asterix series hits one of its high points here. Asterix in Britain provides a golden opportunity for Goscinny and Uderzo to lampoon Britishness and the British (which the French are always eager to attempt!), an opportunity that they seize with both hands.

The pages are packed with a vast array of (affectionate) British stereotypes, with constant themes being the language ("oh, I say, rather, old fruit, what?") and the famous "stiff upper lip" that my compatriots are supposed to exhibit. Obelix, of course, would rather they spent a little more time on cooking boar properly ("boiled in mint sauce, poor things")!

As with the whole Asterix series (the books written by G