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March Trilogy


Summary: The 1960's were a volatile time due to the desire for Civil Rights.  So many American leaders and innocent lives were lost during this tumultuous period. America was finding itself through violence and battle, but found itself it did.  There were a myriad of individuals who became involved in the protests and rallies, but sadly only a few of them are alive today.  John Lewis, a current U.S. Representative, is one of those surviving individuals, a person who was right there on the front lines for civil rights.  The March Trilogy is his account of the events, a first hand telling of what went on during this decade.  His story is so extensive that it requires three volumes in which to tell it; yet, I'm sure there was still so much still left out.  The amount of detail information and description adds greatly to the story, so much so, that it gives credence to his struggle and fight.  For individuals like me, who weren't around during the time period, the books provide great insight into the tremendous sacrifice these "agitators" gave.

Reference: John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, Nate Powell (2016). March Trilogy. Top Shelf Productions. Marietta, GA. 

Why I Picked It Up:  After having read The Silence of our Friends, which was also illustrated by Nate Powell, I soon got wind of this critically-praised tome.  So, I had to read it.  Plus, with the recent tone of our country regarding race, I felt it was a poignant story to read, to see if it could be considered a good reminder of the struggle for civil rights. 

Why I Finished It: The amount of detail and first-person point of view is enlightening and educational.  I was always aware that people sacrificed their well-being and physical health when they protested, but I was never aware of the extent.  John Lewis stated that in the summer of 1964, they had endured 1000 arrests, 80 instances of beatings, 35 shootings, 35 church burnings, and 30 bombings int the state of Mississippi.  All in one summer!  All in just one state!  That type of detail is simply indispensable in order to truly appreciate the sacrifice of John Lewis and Black people living through all of this.  These are facts and data that give essential weight to their plight.  With this type of important subject and point-of-view, how could I not finish it.

Recommendation:  For anyone wanting to know about the accomplishments of John Lewis and of the civil rights activists, this book is essential.  History teachers could definitely add these books to their curriculum and, and, because of its graphic novel form, it will grab the attention of even the most reluctant of readers. With so many in today's society ignorant of our country's past struggles, these books should help to shine a light on the subject of human dignity and human rights.  Despite the many strides the United States has made regarding civil rights, we see today that there is still so much more to do.  The March Trilogy is most assuredly one story that needs to be read by everyone.

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