Friday, August 04, 2006

Louis Riel: A Comic-Strip Biography

Author: Chester Brown

Publication: Montreal: Drawn & Quarterly Publications

Publication Date: 2003

ISBN: 1896597637

Pages: 272

Summary: This graphic novel recounts the tale of Louis Riel, a Métis from Manitoba who led a rebellion against the Canadian government in the 1800s. Seen as a hero by the French, and as a traitor by the English because of his efforts to secure land rights for the Métis, Riel is one of Canada's most intriguing characters.

Major Characters: Louis Riel, Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald, Gabriel Dumont, Doc Schultz

Comments: I think this book is a great way to introduce teens to an important event in Canadian history. The dialogue and illustrations are simple, yet entertaining, and the plot moves along at a fast pace. Even though Brown paints a sympathetic picture of Riel, he includes a bibliography that will guide readers towards writers with other points of view. It quickly becomes clear that Brown has done his research, and it has resulted in a great graphic novel.

Genre: Historical Biography (Graphic Novel format)

Age Level: 15+

Rating: 4/5

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