Book Blurb:
Strange Fruit, Volume I is a collection of stories from African American history that exemplifies success in the face of great adversity. This unique graphic anthology offers historical and cultural commentary on nine uncelebrated heroes whose stories are not often found in history books.
Among the stories included are: Henry “Box” Brown, who escaped from slavery by mailing himself to Philadelphia; Alexander Crummel and the Noyes Academy, the first integrated school in America, established in the 1830s; Marshall “Major” Taylor, a.k.a. the Black Cyclone, the first black champion in any sport; and Bass Reeves, the most successful lawman in the Old West.
Written and illustrated by Joel Christian Gill, the diverse art beautifully captures the spirit of each remarkable individual and opens a window into an important part of American history.
Recommended for: African descendants interested in learning about their history; readers interested in learning about lesser known historical figures and pioneers; and history buffs.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Tags: African-American, History, Non-fiction, Graphic Novel, Discrimination, Racism, Politics, Social Science, Humor
My Thoughts:
(Thanks to Fulcrum Publishing and Edelweiss for providing me with an e-copy in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinions on the book.)
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Apart from the visuals of the illustration this was an absolute JOY to read. I read the 2nd installment before getting this and both have not disappointed. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about these fascinating true stories about black people’s continuous struggle with prejudice and discriminating attacks from racists. Some were crushingly sad and others warmly uplifting.
Visually, the illustrative style was not my favorite, but the narrative style was cleverly done and surprised you with bits of humor here and there.
Strange Fruit is an absolutely great series that everyone should read, because when you strip down the color of our skin, at the core of it all, it shows us that we’re all the same. This is one series that ALL libraries should carry!
Parental Guidance: 12+
Violence – Some
Sex – None
Religion – None
Profanity – None
Grab this now on: Amazon | B&N | BookDepository | Goodreads| Download an ARC on Edelweiss
Those illustrations are gorgeous! I will have to look for this one. Thanks for sharing it. 🙂
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Haha, it does have its own flavor huh 😁 It’s different and I can appreciate it even though it’s not my kinda style. But the stories! Gosh, they were fiery and sometimes sad. It make me glad that you like it!!
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