Abina and the Important Men: A Visually-Stunning Graphic Novel Telling a Moving Story of Colonialism and Resistance

Amy Anderson: "Abina and the Important Men: A Graphic History" skillfully combines storytelling and historical analysis to bring to life the true story of Abina Mansah, a young woman in 19th-century Africa. The graphic format adds a visually engaging element to the narrative, making it accessible to a broader audience. The book successfully explores themes of power, justice, and agency, shedding light on a lesser-known historical figure and her struggle for freedom. Overall, it's a compelling blend of art and history that captivates readers while fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of the past.

United States on Nov 12, 2023

Robert Cruise: Bought used said it was in “good” condition but it is in like new condition, happy with my purchase

Canada on Jan 21, 2021

sabrina: Great size can read everything with ease perfect for my uni classes

Canada on Sep 18, 2020

Ogbeni: Very good!

United Kingdom on Aug 06, 2014

Cat Novelliere: The story of Abina and the Important Men, not only presents a personal account of the struggle experienced by West African women and children, it also provides readers a rare insight in how historical analysis is conducted. Trevor R. Getz, author of the graphic history, provides explanations on how he gathered the surrounding information on Abina's court transcript. By understanding the culture and social systems of the West African region during British rule, he is able to reconstruct an authentic landscape through pictures and dialogue, giving the reader the ability to feel if he or she was actually living in West Africa at that time. Trevor R. Getz is able to allow Abina's voice be heard at last; a goal she was not able to achieve during her lifetime.

To provide insight in the world of historical analysis, Getz discusses historical bias and offers a technique to "read against the grain." Along with the court transcripts and graphic story, Getz provides an introductory lesson in how to analyze historical documents from a critical perspective. He walks the readers step by step through the various questions historians must ask themselves when reviewing primary sources. He...

United States on Sep 30, 2013

Lee: Abina and the Important Men describes slavery in West Africa during the 1800's by telling one woman's story of her life as a slave and her search for justice in colonial court. Trevor Getz and Liz Clarke were clearly moved emotionally by the story of this woman, and this emotion is apparent in the both the level of research Getz undertook and the passionate illustrations of Clarke.

The use of a Graphic Novel format helps the reader identify with Abina in her struggles. The format also makes the narrative accessible to readers at virtually any level from grade school to grad school. After reading this book you will find yourself asking why more history books are not written this way. I actually came home and found my niece reading my copy on the kitchen table, and while she didn't read or understand the reference and methodology sections, she understood the story. This is a mark of a very well thought out work, that someone with no experience in academic history can find themselves enveloped by what they read is on the verge of amazing.

The only slight downside that I can think of is that composition characters were used in the narrative. To be fair to Getz and Clarke...

United States on Sep 29, 2013