Good but gritty graphic novel about blacks fighting for France in WW I [1918]. White Americans would not fight alongside them because of the bitter racial bigotry of the time. Great courage displayed despite being ill-used by the U.S. Quite violent and gruesome but worthwhile. I want to learn more. ( )

Intrigued by the Harlem Hellfighters from a young age, Max Brooks has written this affecting and poignant graphic novel history of the courageous and groundbreaking regiment of African American WWI soldiers. Despite discriminatory treatment at home and being allowed only the most menial and laborious tasks in the U.S. Army, the 369th Infantry Regiment went on to serve valorously on the frontlines with the French Army and were highly decorated by the French for their service. I appreciated learning more about this largely forgotten piece of history. ( )

History has many dark corners and often there is little incentive to light a candle. Therefore I am grateful whenever someone breaks from the rote path of history, follow the big names and see where they lead us, and brings light to something new. WWI in general, let alone it's unique particulars, seldom gets much popular culture attention despite being one of the most devastating acts mankind has committed against itself. More people were hurt-killed-missing in the first month of WWI than were killed in the entirety of the American Civil War. The creative team of Max Brooks (writer) and Caanan White (artist) introduce us to THE HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS -- a unit of African-American soldiers who had to fight to get into combat, fought their way to heroism and medals in combat, and then despite their valor had to again fight racism upon their return "home". As with any minority achievement they had to be better to be considered equal and they excelled enough that their fearsome name was actually coined by the Germans they fought. The story as presented is riveting from induction into the service through boot camp and the crossing to Europe and to eventual combat and the travails of racism they encountered all along the way. Brooks moves from scene to scene weaving the narration of history and personal stories so that nary a thread is lost. Being a graphic novel, there is not a lot of room for exposition so there are sudden shifts from scene to scene to move the story along but the destination of each jump never feels random. There is no romantic hue or gloss but instead feels as immediate as the next room you might walk into and each scene stings as if from a fresh slap. Helping to convey this and perhaps surpassing the text is White's evocative artwork. The beauty of muscular youth is contrasted with hateful faces and the brutality of war. Every angle is the right one whether to highlight an expression or the overhead shot of a hospital or killing field. Of special note is the wide array of distinct African-American faces--certainly unique in my experience with graphic novels or even literature at large -- avoiding caricature and remaining human. The art and text work so well together that there is no sense that one is in the service of the other. Each could stand alone quite well but are marvelous when walking along together. Marvelous. ( )

This graphic novel was best at the end: the Epilogue. Ok, so comic book format, and this modern format in particular, is not my thing, but the history was well brought to life. Just not for my taste, as I prefer text.

Read, Write, Dream, Walk !

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ShiraDest
May 3rd, 12018 HE ( )

This graphic novel was best at the end: the Epilogue. Ok, so comic book format, and this modern format in particular, is not my thing, but the history was well brought to life. Just not for my taste, as I prefer text.

Read, Write, Dream, Walk !

#PublicDomainInfrastructure
ShiraDest
May 3rd, 12018 HE ( )