McKay, Sharon E, & LaFrance, Daniel (2013). War brothers: The graphic novel. Toronto: Annick Press.
Interestingly enough, this book exists both as a graphic novel and as a traditional novel. In case you're curious, here are Goodreads reviews of both:
1. The graphic novel: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16276856-war-brothers?from_search=true
2. The traditional novel: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6044565-war-brothers
From what I've read of the reviews, readers seem to find the graphic novel more compelling. Since so far, I have only read the graphic novel, I have a limited frame of reference. However, I can say that this story benefits from visuals, especially since Daniel LaFrance is such a talented artist. He brings the scenery of Uganda to life, and the pictures make the violence and oppression the children face very palpable. I read the graphic novel version because of my research interest, and also because this book made the USBBY list in 2013: 2013 USBBY Outstanding International Books. I found it interesting that this book was listed on the 6-8 list rather than the 9-12 list. Since some parts of the book are violent, some educators might find the content more appropriate for high school students. However, as a former middle school teacher, I would feel comfortable teaching it to a class of eighth graders. Here are some questions for teachers to consider when teaching it to students:
1. How does the book confirm and/or challenge perceptions you and your students might have of Uganda?
2. One of the boys in the story describes a summer trip to the United States. What are his perceptions of Americans? How accurate do you think they are?
3. The book was originally published in Canada. As you read the book, do you get any hints that it's an International novel?
4. How and why might it be interesting to compare and contrast the graphic novel to the traditional novel?
5. What are your thoughts on the end of the book? Is it realistic? Why or why not?
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