Born into slavery, he displayed an early determination to be free but it was not until the early days of the Civil War, after he had worked long hours to try and purchase freedom for his wife and children, that he hatched a daring plan of escape. Ignored and trusted by the lazy Confederate soldiers on the boat he worked on, he managed to fool the soldiers, trick a former friend turned enemy, and sail to freedom with his family and the families of his friends.
Back matter explains more of the context of the time period, the story of Robert Smalls, who was briefly successful in not only gaining freedom and a career but being elected to office during the period of Reconstruction when formerly enslaved people were truly free and had opportunities to pursue education and careers. Gill includes references and some thoughtful discussion, shown as the bracketing narrative of two Black men discussing famous Black people in history.
Gill’s art is clear and simple, making it easy for readers to follow the absorbing story. Instead of the N word, he uses a small icon of a stereotyped African man, and the story is not overly graphic, even for the serious subject matter. The publisher’s information and review put this at teen, ages 10+, or middle school, but I would add it to my juvenile, middle grade nonfiction for kids ages 9-13.
Verdict: This would be a wonderful addition to my library’s collection of nonfiction and history graphic novels, but sourcing it is a little tricky. Baker & Taylor has the first and third volumes (Bessie Stringfield and Robert Smalls) available, but purchasing them directly from Chicago Review Press might be the easiest solution. They are more expensive than the average graphic novel, but their unique subject matter and brisk narratives are definitely worth the additional cost.
ISBN: 9781682750667; Published May 2021 by Fulcrum/Chicago Review Press; Borrowed from another library in my consortium.
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