Trotsky: A Graphic Biography (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
Rick Geary is probably my favourite graphic artist. I just love his style of detailed b/w drawings and the use of lines to fill in space. I'd read anything he illustrated but fortunately I have an interest in Communist Russia and the evils of communism in general. First off, this is not a children's book by any means, not because of anything that may offend but because it is highly detailed in history, politics and warfare. I knew nothing about Trotsky going into this book as my interests lie in the sociological affects of communism on the everyday people rather than the politics of the leaders, so I found it highly enlightening. The leaders were just as ruthless and turned against each other as violently as they did on the people. Geary does in my opinion come off a bit too neutral; the reader will view the politics from their own worldview (left or right). Guess which is mine? LOL Anyway I found it highly enlightening and informative but decidedly heavy on politics and would only recommend to those who know something of Marxism, Leninism and Socialist Communism. The art is divine! There is a companion book to this one that I will read next on J. Edgar Hoover whom I have read quite a bit about already. If you're a communist then this book is perfect for you! The book Trotsky tells the life of the Bolshevik revolutionary Leon Trotsky and the emergence of the Soviet Union. From his humble beginnings to becoming Lenin's right hand man, the book describes every aspect of Trotsky's life, up until his death. The book especially focuses on his time during the Russian Revolution, where Trotsky became a famed leader. His many personal battles he experiences on the path to revolution is astounding, and how he perseveres is admirable. The artwork style is quite striking, adding enjoyable images to an alredy interesting story. While being a communist certainly would work in your favor, you don't need to be one to enjoy a work such as this.
What do You think about Trotsky: A Graphic Biography (2009)?
very informative, love this little series of graphic biographies of historical figures.
—farharhar
esp. liked the cheekbone technique used by the artist. the history is good too
—maria
I wonder if these biographies would appeal to students.
—aaronwinn
