Member Reviews

This is a fantastic informational graphic novel. The illustrations are striking and the amount of text is just right. Recommended for school libraries. This is a good additional text for classes learning about reconstruction.

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An informative and historically accurate book. The artwork is a distinct style that works incredibly well with the subject matter. This book looks at a period of history that is often overlooked and is a great way to learn something.

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Kate Masur’s “Freedom Was in Sight: A Graphic History of Reconstruction in the Washington, D.C., Region” is a remarkable history text in graphic novel format. It delves into key pivotal moments of the Civil War and Reconstruction era, a critical period in American history. Masur's engaging storytelling brings to life the struggles and triumphs of African Americans fighting for their freedom and rights. This was a meticulously researched book and would be a great way to introduce a topic of historical significance to schools. I think presenting nonfiction works in a variety of formats appeals to a wider range of readers especially the younger generations. The artwork (Liz Clarke, illustrator) itself is both vivid and evocative, capturing the emotional intensity and the significance of the period. Through these powerful visuals and poignant narrative, this graphic novel provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of freedom, resistance, and justice. It's a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the ongoing struggle for civil rights of black people in this country.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Kate Masur and the University of North Carolina Press - Ferris and Ferris Books for a digital copy of the graphic novel #FreedomWasinSight in exchange for my honest opinion.

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I wasn't sure I liked the format at first, with the kind of framing device to take the reader through different historical periods. However, it turned out to be a fantastic way to cover a lot of information in a way that was easy to understand. The events were organized and the writing was pretty concise, with about half the book devoted to other sources so interested readers can learn more from primary sources. Learning how to use primary sources is so important, and this book was thought-provoking and interesting. It would work well for many students as a supplement to help put history in context. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this.

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This was a fascinating exploration of American history. I loved learning about what happened during this era through people’s personal stories of heartbreak and triumph.

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