Monday, November 02, 2015

Booknote: March: Book Two

John Lewis, et.al., March: Book Two. Marietta, GA: Top Shelf Productions, 2015. ISBN: 9780606365475. 

Genre: graphic novels and comics
Subgenre: biography, history
Format: Trade Paperback
Source: My local public library

John Lewis' story during the Civil Rights Movement continues. We go from the lunch counter protests, which we saw taking place in Book One, to the the Freedom Rides and the March on Washington. As in Book One, Lewis' story is framed by President Obama's inauguration.

For readers of all ages, this is an excellent book. We get to learn and see the key events of the Civil Rights Movement through the eyes of John Lewis; this is his story as he lived it. It is a book rich in detail with a powerful and moving story, a history that we can never forget. And in these times when it seems racism in the United States is rising again, this history becomes more relevant. In these violent times, this book reminds us of the power of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience.

The black and white art suits the volume well. It really captures the feel of the times, capturing well the expressions and emotions of the characters. The art does show the violence of the racist oppressors as well. Bombings and beatings were part of that history, fueled by hate, and they are depicted here as well, and we dare not turn our eyes away. This is part of U.S. History, and it needs to be seen, to be read, to be learned, and then acted upon to start healing and moving forward.

This is a very engaging book. Once you start, you'll keep reading to the end. This is a must for libraries, whether they have graphic novel collections or not. I'll certainly make sure our library has a copy. Personally, I would add this and the previous volume to my personal collection. I highly recommend it.

5 out of 5 stars.

This book qualifies for the following 2015 Reading Challenges:




No comments: