Title: Alexander Hamilton
Author: Jonathan Hennessey
Genre: Graphic Novel
Publisher: Ten Speed Press
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780399579998
Summary: Alexander Hamilton was one of the most influential figures in United States history–he fought in the Revolutionary War, helped develop the Constitution, and as the first Secretary of the Treasury established landmark economic policy that we still use today. Cut down by a bullet from political rival Aaron Burr, Hamilton has since been immortalized alongside other Founding Fathers such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson–his likeness even appears on the ten-dollar bill. In this fully-illustrated and impeccably researched graphic novel-style history, author Jonathan Hennessey and comic book illustrator Justin Greenwood bring Alexander Hamilton’s world to life, telling the story of this improbable hero who helped shape the United States of America.
My thoughts:
Alexander Hamilton is packed with vivid illustrations that pop from the pages and action that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I’d never paid attention to the historical figure before and this graphic novel fed my desire to know more.
Not only does the book shed light on the life and actions of Alexander Hamilton, but it also explores how he is related to other historical figures. The structure of the story is filled with dialogue bubbles, which revealed more than I anticipated about the characters.
Although this is a strength, I want to add that all the graphic sections crammed with dialogue was, at times, overwhelming. It was a little difficult trying to figure out which box I should read or what order they went in, especially on pages where the illustrations were slanted or intersecting.
A rich history is quite literally brought to life, springing from the pages faster than you can turn them.
A few great images on Fully Booked:
https://twitter.com/_FullyBooked/status/901385383396524033
Overall, I would rate this graphic novel a ♥♥♥♥ out of five. Though occasionally jarring, I loved the experience and the brightly drawn graphics Alexander Hamilton had to offer.
Do you enjoy graphic novels? If so, what’s your favorite one? Let me know in the comments section below!