The striking images in graphic novels are an excellent means of depicting the physical and emotional trauma created by conflicts around the world. Whether these works are fictional or journalistic, their scope and resonance in representing the events and repercussions of conflicts are truly eye-opening. Gene Luen Yang's two-book set, BOXERS (First Second. 2013. ISBN 9781596433595. pap. $18.99; ebk. ISBN 9781466843820) and SAINTS (First Second. 2013. ISBN 9781596436893. pap. $15.99; ebk. ISBN 9781466843851), shows both sides of the Boxer Rebellion through coming-of-age tales. Boxers follows Little Bao, a Chinese boy who helps to create the Righteous and Harmonious Fists, a group fighting Christian missionaries, Chinese Christians, and foreign governments that they feel have become too influential. Saints focuses on Vibiana as she chooses to break away from her abusive family by converting to Christianity and moving to a Christian village that comes under attack from the Righteous and Harmonious Fists. Filled with cleverly colored work and remarkable illustrations, both volumes are easily digestible and will resonate strongly.
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