Black Heroes of the Wild West (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

 *I received this book as an eARC from TOON Graphics via NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Black Heroes of the Wild West
Creator: James Otis Smith

Introduction by:Kadir Nelson
Upcoming Release Date: September 29, 2020


Synopsis: True stories from the Wild West, but not like you’ve seen in the movies.

This graphic novel by JAMES OTIS SMITH celebrates the extraordinary true tales of three black heroes who took control of their destinies and stood up for their communities in the Old West. Born into slavery in Tennessee, Mary Fields became famous as “Stagecoach Mary,” a cigar-chomping, cardplaying coach driver who never missed a delivery. Bass Reeves, the first black Deputy US Marshal west of the Mississippi, was one of the wiliest lawmen in the territories, bringing thousands of outlaws to justice with his smarts. Bob Lemmons lived to be 99 years old and was so good with horses that the wild mustangs on the plains of Texas took him for one of their own. 

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Review: I love learning stories that should be more well known. I hope young people today have access to stories like this so they can both see representation and diversity. I wish I had learned about these people earlier in my life. 

This graphic novel features Mary Fields, Bass Reeves, and Bob Lemmons. Their stories are told with the context of the time given. There's also an excellent introduction and additional information at the end about more of the history of the Wild West.

I give this book a 5/5. Everyone needs to learn the stories of these Black Heroes. 


--PAUL