Flowers, Arthur, and Manu Chitrakar. I See The Promised Land.

Flowers, Arthur, and Manu Chitrakar.  I See The Promised Land.    Douglas McIntyre/Groundwood   2013  154p  ISBN 978-1-55498-328-5 all ages  Hardback  E-BN     Graphic biography

This is a graphic biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. Dr. King came from a long line of Black Baptist preachers.  This graphic novel tells the story of his life through colorful illustrations, with fact boxes that will capture the reader’s attention.  It provides a running commentary of what was happening during King’s lifetime, very well told and very well illustrated.  The message is one that needs to be addressed for children.  The illustrations include maps and slave trade routes. There are references to Harriet Tubman and her work with the Underground Railroad, the Ku Klux Klan, and the Great Migration.  The story of Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which were so crucial to the Civil Rights Movement and the rise of Dr. King as a leader are also included.

I would recommend that parents or teachers read the book with children.  There are parts of the book that portray violence at its worst, and may need some explanation and discussion with an adult.    

Summary:  This is a graphic biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Civil Rights Movement in the USA.   Dr. King came from a long line of Black Baptist preachers.  This graphic novel tells the story of his life through colorful illustrations, with fact boxes that will capture the reader’s attention.           

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-Biography                             --Magna Diaz