Paul Bunyan: The Invention of an American Legend
A graphic novel offering a fresh perspective on the origins of the legend of Paul Bunyan begins with a compelling, insightful introduction by Lee Francis IV, a Laguna Pueblo artist, educator, and comic book creator. Francis discusses what is missing from traditional stories of the American tall tale hero: the history of North American indigenous peoples and land irreparably harmed by the timber industry. The 30-page fictional story, told through visual panels in a traditional comic book style, is set on a 1914 winter train ride in Minnesota. When the train is delayed by an accident, the passengers step out into the snowy woods to stretch and build a bonfire. The ambiance and audience perfectly align for a talkative advertising manager to tell the tale of Paul Bunyan, the greatest lumberjack of all time. His account ties to the true story of William Laughead, who invented the character of Paul Bunyan as part of a campaign to promote the timber industry. Following the comic story is an informative essay, “The Invention of an American Legend,” by Dr. Deondre Smiles of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, and a visual history with text and art by Marlena Myles, Spirit Lake Dakota. Both pieces enrich the exploration of colonialism that anchors this intriguing volume. Historical images and maps are included in the end matter. ©2023 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Marlena Myles
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 10-14
Age Range:
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format:
Graphic Novel
Subjects:
20th Century
Colonialism
First/Native Nations
History (Nonfiction)
Natural Resources
Rumor, Myth and Misinformation
Tall Tales
Diversity subject:
Indigenous
Publishers:
TOON, Astra
Publish Year: 2023
Pages: 48
ISBN: 9781662665226
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 398 Van Sciver