Derek Hockridge was een Britse vertaler die bekendheid verwierf met zijn vertalingen van de Asterix-stripboeken. Zijn vertalingen waren erop gericht de geest van de originele tekst te behouden en humor en culturele nuances effectief over te brengen op een nieuw publiek. Door zijn inspanningen bereikte deze geliefde serie een breder lezerspubliek. Hockridge's bijdrage ligt in zijn rol als culturele bemiddelaar, die literaire werken toegankelijk maakt.
How can lovely Queen Cleopatra show Julius Caesar that ancient Egypt is still a great nation? Her architect Edifis recruits his Gaulish friends to help him build a magnificent palace within three months. There are villainous saboteurs to be outwitted, but Asterix, Obelix and Getafix still find time to go sight-seeing - and leave their mark on the pyramids and the Sphinx's nose.
Oh no! The Romans have captured Cacofonix as a gift for Caesar-and the Emperor plans to throw him to the lions. There's only one way for Asterix and Obelix to rescue their bard: they have to become gladiators themselves.
Gaul, now France, has always been famous for its food and drink - so when, for a bet with the Romans, Asterix and Obelix travel round collecting local delicacies they start on the journey home with all sorts of goodies. First, however, they must outwit the thieves Villanus and Unscrupulus. And who's that little dog who has been following them all the way?
When the Romans persuade a Gaulish chief to challenge Vitalstatistix to single combat, no one worries much. But then a flying menhir hits Getafix and he no longer remembers how to make his magic potion. Can Asterix help restore Getafix's memory?
Normans never feel fear-but they do believe that terror literally gives one wings, enabling a person to fly. Now they're planning to test their theory on Vitalstatistix's cowardly nephew Jusforkix by pushing him right off the edge of a cliff.
Land ho! Asterix and Obelix had been lost at sea, but they've finally reached what they think is a Roman colony. Then the Vikings turn up on a voyage of discovery, and the two Gauls realize that they've done something greater and more important: they've discovered a strange New World.
Asterix and Obelix are celebrating their joint birthday party back in the Gaulish village - and some surprise guests have been invited! Meanwhile, Julius Caesar has to deal with his old enemy Pompey, who is looking for supporters among the legions stationed in Gaul. And just what what part do two old friends play in the story - Tremensdelirius, from ASTERIX AND CAESAR'S GIFT, and the lovely Panacea, first encountered in ASTERINX AND THE LEGIONARY? After many exciting adventures, all is finally revealed...
