GEORGE WASHINGTON

From the creators of Action Philosophers comics comes this first in a series of graphic biographies about American presidents beginning, appropriately, with George Washington.

With the assistance of two kids, a black boy and a white girl, and a muscular turkey who move readers in and out of the historical storyline, Van Lente and Dunlavey cover the whole of Washington’s life, with highlights on his roles as a slave owner, officer in the French and Indian War, commander of the Continental Army in the War for Independence, and first president of the United States. Amid the jokey narrative is solid biographical information about Washington and historical facts about his times. Particularly insightful is the depiction of Washington’s presidency, which readers might be surprised to find had plenty of detractors. The creators reveal that partisan politics has been a part of America from the beginning. The black-and-white art is exaggeratedly cartoonish and fun. Readers who appreciate a goofier approach to history, such as Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, will enjoy this graphic biography. One unfortunate oversight is the omission of recommendations for age-appropriate further reading.

A light, comical approach to biography and history that makes it more palatable for those who find more traditional approaches hard to swallow.