Justice

Before reading this graphic novel I had never heard of the Nepali Civil War which took place over the span of a decade from 1996-2006 with fighting between the Nepali Government and the Communist Party of Nepal. Caught in the crosshairs were tens of thousands of innocent Nepali people living in rural areas like the family in this story.
This story was a very surface level overview of the war meant to raise a wider awareness. While I appreciated learning about this war, I wanted to dig deeper to understand the motives of the Maoists. I also felt like ending the story when the brother had so much to tell about his time away left me wanting more in that regard as well.

This is a very important graphic novel.

It brought awarness to me of a civil war in Nepal and how that greatly affected the Nepali people by telling it through the eyes of a fictional family. The story is told through the perspective of Tara, she is the eldest daughter, as she has gone back home to her childhood house which she and her family had to flee during the war after her brother is taken by the rebels. She flashes back to right before he was taken to what lead them to leave the house. As an American, Justice brought to my attention a tradgic war I had never known. I know that I will carry the story of Tara and her family with me always, and I will wonder about the people in real life that had to live through 10 years of brutal attacks and heartache.

I would certain recommend this book, especially to middle grade and teenage kids; as it will share with them a story of other people's lives to help them better understand to be compassionate with the world around them.

A graphic novel that skims across the Nepalese Civil war to give a background of the 10 year conflict that rocked the country. I do feel the book was trying much more to bring awareness to a conflict and its aftermath, and was not trying to distill the motivations of the two sides to give a deeper understanding. Both are useful tools for graphic novels, but I greatly prefer the latter type.

Thank you so much to Netgalley for the e-ARC of this graphic novel! This graphic novel sheds light on a part of history that is often overlooked and not talked about. I had never read anything about the Nepali civil war before so this was a good, albeit brief, introduction to how the conflict impacted civilians. I thought the story was good and the characters as well, however, I wish the novel was longer so readers could have more time to get to know the characters and have more background about the war. Additionally, one critique I have is that the character introduction at the beginning of the novel spoiled some of the plot points. I also think that there should have been a trigger warning for suicide, as this was totally unexpected for me and I can imagine some potential readers would want to know about this content beforehand. Overall, though, this is an important novel sharing an important story that is underrepresented in mainstream literature.

'Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War' becomes provides an extremely important perspective into a long-forgotten tale of war, politics and social unrest during the civil war that took place in Nepal from 1996 to 2006. The tale presented in this book's duration of ten years is divided in three chapters, each one tenser than the other, enabling the reader to experience difficulties that often stretched beyond normal imaginations. This is an absolute must-read, presented in quite the simple form of illustrations, for those who wish to know more about how different factions of dozens of countries across the world have one thing in common - the hunger for their rights and freedom from injustice.

I was very lucky to have been approved to read an ARC by the author through NetGalley for this graphic novel!
I am ashamed to say that I never heard of the Nepali Civil War and I am very thankful for the author for shining light on it and sharing this story with us! It was a very quick read with beautiful artwork! I appreciated the early introduction to Nepal with a few information about this country I knew nothing about as well as introducing the characters and the glossary at the end!
The story is told in three short chapters through the eyes of the eldest daughter Tara and we get an understanding of the injustice this one family faces during the Civil War!
The Civil War lasted from 1996-2006 and the narration starts in 2009 and goes back to 2003.
Not knowing anything about the Nepali Civil War it was great to get my hands on this graphic novel and again I really appreciate the author for bringing us this story, however I would have liked to be given more background information on what the political situation was like back in 1996 and how everything escalated for there to be a Civil War.

I think this read will be perfect for middle graders and young teens!

Thank you Netgalley for the e-ARC!  
Justice is a heartfelt story about a young girl’s life during Nepal’s Civil War. The story expands as she bravely navigates through it, while highlighting the social injustices she faces.
This book was beautifully written, full of grief and anger. I must admit it left the reader rooting for a moment of happiness for the characters. What I loved about it was the way the chapters were introduced, building suspense for the following events without making it seem dull. The illustrations were also well done, complimentary to the story and what it tries to convey.
However the characters weren’t explored as much as I’d like. The story felt rushed at times, when I would have preferred to understand the inside world of each character rather than a brief mention of it. I would recommend learning about the historical background before diving into the story to understand it better. Either way, the reader earns the opportunity to visit a world that is not really represented nowadays.
I’d recommend Justice to anyone interested in historical fiction. If you’re looking for an informative fast paced read, this is the book for you!

Justice is good starting point for bringing awareness of the Nepali Civil War to a global audience through the story of Tara and her family. I was not aware of the conflict before reading this graphic novel and was surprised to learn that it happened somewhat recently. The graphic novel format works for a quick read, while the story conveys the people's suffering during the conflict. Recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction.

There are certain elements that I pay attention to when I read a graphic novel - illustrations, lettering and the text itself. I personally enjoy graphic novels and I often use them in my classroom to engage my all of my students, especially my reluctant readers.

One of the first things that I noticed was Sandipan Santra's illustrations. They were vibrant, clear, and really brought the story to life. The characters were drawn in a realistic way and the emotions expressed on their faces makes you sympathise with their plight. Even if I were a child who did not enjoy reading, I could tell what this story was about from the pictures.

The lettering was just right. I have seen some graphic novels where the text boxes take up too much of the panel space or the fonts make it difficult to read. That is not the case in Justice. The captions were well-placed and clear enough that the reader gets the information they need and can continue on with with the story. Shahab Khan does a great job ensuring that the text is easily seen and read and Blake Hoena and Rachel Slaiman edited the text well. As for the story itself, I think it's a great introduction to Nepal's Civil War. I enjoyed the background given at the beginning of the novel including mini descriptions of the characters.

Justice is told from the perspective of a young girl, Tara, who lived a peaceful life in a village with her family until the ugliness of war appeared at her doorstep. Rebel forces took her brother and her parents continually searched for him. The story follows the family through the aftermath of Sudeep's kidnapping. The content of this book could be a bit heavy for children, especially as there is an attempted suicide. However, I think Ram Khatri's choice of writing about it in a graphic novel strikes the right notes to make it a valuable addition to a classroom library and makes it accessible for a wide audience. The conversations that could emerge from this book are important and I believe, beneficial to all students. I could see this book in a middle or high school classroom, but adults would also find it interesting as this war wasn't reported in the US News.

I was given access to this Advanced Reader's Copy by Restart Publishing, LLC and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you and I hope to read Sudeep's story soon!

Thanks to a random person in my DM, Thanks to NetGalley for this book.

"A Tale of the Nepali Civil War" emerges as a poignant masterpiece, delicately crafted to shed light on a chapter of history often overshadowed. Through the lens of Tara and her family, the graphic novel navigates the tumultuous terrain of the Nepali Civil War with grace and authenticity. It serves as a beacon of awareness, illuminating the experiences of those caught amidst the chaos of conflict. As a reader, I found myself captivated by the narrative's depth and emotional resonance, seamlessly woven into the fabric of each panel.

One of the most commendable aspects of "Justice" is its ability to educate and inspire without sacrificing narrative integrity. Despite being unfamiliar with the Nepali Civil War prior to reading, I was immediately drawn to the world depicted within the pages. The graphic novel format proves to be a masterful tool, allowing for a quick yet immersive exploration of history. Through skillful storytelling and evocative artwork, the plight of Tara and her family becomes a universal tale of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

Moreover, "Justice" stands as a testament to the power of representation in literature. By centering the narrative around Nepali characters and their experiences, the graphic novel offers a much-needed perspective that is often overlooked in mainstream media. It serves as a reminder of the importance of diverse voices in storytelling, enriching the literary landscape with authenticity and nuance.

The meticulous attention to detail evident throughout "Justice" is truly commendable. From the careful pacing of the narrative to the intricacies of character development, every aspect of the book feels purposeful and deliberate. While some may critique the novel for its brevity, I found that it only served to enhance the impact of the story, leaving a lasting impression that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

In conclusion, "Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War" is a triumph of storytelling and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. With its compelling narrative, evocative artwork, and unwavering commitment to authenticity, it deserves nothing less than the highest praise. This graphic novel is not just a work of fiction; it is a beacon of enlightenment, shining a light on a chapter of history that deserves to be remembered and honored. For readers seeking an immersive and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience, "Justice" is an essential addition to any library.

I am sending a FIVE-star rating for the amazing graphic.

I'm not sure what to rate this.
I was recommended this graphic novel - and I love graphic novels and manga. Historical fiction or historical non-fiction interests me, so I thought I would love Justice. I'm not very familiar with Nepal and it's politics, but I do know of the Maoists.

The story was interesting, sad and tense. I don't know if this is based on someones own experience, but it could be. Someone has definitely lived through this exact scenario, which makes the conflicts tense and depressing. It's short as well, so it's a novel you can read in one sitting.

The drawings and graphic style was not for me. The proportions being off annoyed me, and the folds and shadows being wrong made it hard to focus on the story. This is obviously a very subjective opinion.

If there was a bigger focus on building relations between the characters, the novel would have been better. Deaths and tragedies don't hit your feelings when you don't care about the characters. A bigger focus on the familiy in that way would've improved the novel and make a greater impact on the reader. The ending was rather abrupt as well, so the novel would've benefited on being longer.

CW: War, guns, self harm, suicide attempt, abduction, grief

Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War is a heartrending graphic novel of one farming family caught in the middle of the civil war in Nepal (1996-2006) . Told in flashback from the family's eldest daughter, Tara, this book details the harassment the family recieved from both Maoist rebels and government soldiers, as seen from a child's perspective.

its a powerful story that opens with an initial idyllic farming setting, before taking the reader through the appearance of Maoist leaders, the impossible position Punya (Tara's father) is placed in, the abduction of the family's eldest son by the rebels, the obstruction of justice, and the parents quest for justice in the Nepali capital, Kathmandu. Being told from a childs perspective, we are not shown the intricacies of the situation or the bigger, political implications - rather we are shown the immediate effects of the civil war and how these machinations affect everyday folk. How can one stop farming in protest when one has a family to feed?

While the book is listed as "fiction" it is clear the events detailed in it are the lived experience of the real "Tara", and her family, and many, many other Nepali families.

I generally do not care for graphic novels, but this one was recommended to me by another reader. The illustrations are clear and accessible for younger readers (although due to some of the content, I wouldn't recommend it for children younger than 12), with clear, uncluttered text. It is a powerful tale that brings these events into the foreground, and in this current global climate of war and injustice, these stories need to be told so they are not forgotten.

~Many thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ~

I know very little about Nepal, and even less about their civil war. I felt Justice was a great and tragic introduction to Nepali’s Civil War told from an adolescent girl’s perspective as she details how it impacted and tore apart her family.

I would recommend not fully reading the synopsis or description of the characters before diving in as it gives away most the fictionalized part of the plot. Also take a look at the glossary of terms in the back before reading; it’ll help with some of the Nepali words.

Justice: "A Tale of the Nepali Civil War" stands out as an essential and insightful exploration of a lesser-known chapter in history through the eyes of Tara, a young girl whose family's life is shattered by the Nepali Civil War. This graphic novel, recommended to me by fellow readers and graciously provided by NetGalley, delves into the harrowing experiences of a farming family caught amidst the conflict between Maoist rebels and government forces from 1996 to 2006.

Narrated retrospectively by Tara, the story unfolds with an initial idyllic portrayal of rural life, abruptly disrupted by the intrusion of Maoist leaders and the subsequent abduction of her elder brother. The novel adeptly portrays the relentless harassment faced by the family, portraying their struggle for justice amid the chaos of war-torn Nepal. What stands out is the raw emotional impact conveyed through Tara's perspective, highlighting the personal toll of political upheaval and violence.

The illustrations by Sandipan Santra are a visual testament to the story's depth, capturing both the simplicity of rural landscapes and the complexities of human emotions amidst adversity. While some reviewers noted stylistic preferences, I found the artwork accessible and complementary to the narrative, enhancing rather than distracting from the storytelling.

Critically, "Justice" succeeds in raising awareness about the Nepali Civil War without delving deeply into its political intricacies, focusing instead on the immediate and profound effects on everyday Nepali families. This approach, while simplifying historical context, ensures the story remains accessible to a wide audience, including younger readers interested in historical fiction.

However, there are nuances that could have been further explored, such as deeper character development and a more extended narrative to provide a fuller understanding of the war's complexities. Despite this, the novel's brevity contributes to its accessibility and readability, making it a suitable introduction to the topic for those unfamiliar with Nepali history.

In conclusion, "Justice" serves as both a testament to the resilience of individuals in the face of conflict and a call for broader recognition of Nepali voices in global narratives. It is a compelling addition to the genre of historical graphic novels, offering readers a poignant glimpse into a period often overlooked in mainstream discourse. For anyone seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking exploration of war's impact on families, "Justice" is a recommended read that resonates long after the final page.

I am grateful to NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this novel, enabling me to share this honest and reflective review.

Important piece of history told in a dry and unentertaining manner. The artwork is uninspiring and I question the choice of a male author to write a story as if it were a personal biography of a young girl. It's treated as if it is a true story, it's a weird choice in the part of the author.

A Tale of the Nepali Civil War is an absolutely gripping graphic novel that pulls you right into Tara’s world, where her simple, peaceful life is shattered by the chaos of the early 2000s conflict in Nepal. As you flip through the pages, you can almost feel the tension and heartbreak of Tara’s family dealing with Maoist rebels and government soldiers, trying to survive and find justice amidst the madness. The story is raw and real, filled with vivid characters and settings that jump off the page. It’s not just a tale of war but a deep dive into the resilience of the human spirit, making you think long after you’ve finished reading. If you’re into graphic novels that mix historical depth with emotional storytelling, this one is a must-read, and it definitely deserves five stars.

BTW Big thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, the author for such an incredible story, and a huge shoutout to the person who recommended this book to me!

I'm fortunate to have access to this ARC. Thank you NetGalley, and one of my follower for sending the compelling narrative.

In short, the Nepali Civil War is a gripping graphic novel that vividly portrays Tara's family amidst Nepal's turmoil. Through Sandipan Santra's evocative illustrations, the story unfolds with raw emotion, highlighting the challenges faced by ordinary lives caught in conflict. While some aspects were simplified, the novel's accessibility and emotional depth make it essential reading for understanding the human impact of war.
A heartfelt 5-star recommendation."

I'm thrilled to have received an ARC of "Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War" from NetGalley. This graphic novel is an evocative masterpiece that brings to light a pivotal yet underrepresented chapter in Nepal's history. The story of Tara and her family, caught in the throes of the civil war, is not just a narrative of conflict but a profound exploration of human resilience and hope.

Nepal, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has often been overlooked in discussions of global history. The Nepali Civil War, which spanned from 1996 to 2006, is one such chapter that remains relatively unknown to many. This conflict, primarily between the Nepali government and the Maoist insurgents, stemmed from deep-rooted socio-economic disparities and political dissatisfaction. The war had a devastating impact on the nation, leading to significant loss of life, displacement of communities, and long-lasting socio-political repercussions.

"Justice" brilliantly encapsulates the essence of this tumultuous period through the eyes of Tara, a young girl whose simple, peaceful life is shattered by the chaos of war. The graphic novel opens with an idyllic portrayal of rural life in Nepal, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict. The intrusion of Maoist leaders into Tara’s village and the subsequent abduction of her brother Sudeep bring the harsh realities of war into sharp focus. The narrative, told in flashback from Tara’s perspective, vividly captures the relentless harassment faced by her family from both Maoist rebels and government soldiers, portraying their struggle for justice amid the chaos of war-torn Nepal.

The illustrations by Sandipan Santra are nothing short of spectacular. The vibrant colors and meticulous detailing enhance the narrative, making it a truly immersive experience. The facial expressions and body language of the characters are particularly striking, conveying complex emotions that words alone could not express. Even if I were a child who did not enjoy reading, I could tell what this story was about from the pictures.

One aspect that could further elevate this graphic novel is an expanded background section on the political context. While the story focuses on personal experiences, a more detailed explanation of the historical and political nuances would provide readers with a deeper understanding of the conflict. Including maps, timelines, and sidebars with additional historical facts could transform "Justice" into an even more comprehensive educational tool.

Additionally, I would love to see more character development, particularly through backstories and personal reflections. Delving deeper into the motivations and inner thoughts of the characters would add another layer of depth to the story. This would not only make the characters more relatable but also heighten the emotional impact of their journeys.

Another potential improvement could be the inclusion of discussion questions at the end of the book. These could facilitate deeper engagement and reflection, making it an excellent resource for book clubs and classrooms. Questions that encourage readers to draw parallels between the events in the book and current global issues could foster a broader understanding and empathy.

The main theme of "Justice" is the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It highlights the personal toll of political upheaval and violence, focusing on the immediate and profound effects on everyday Nepali families. The book aims to change minds by fostering a deeper understanding of the socio-political dynamics in Nepal and the human cost of the civil war. Through Tara's story, the author conveys a powerful message about the importance of justice, empathy, and resilience.

In conclusion, "Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War" is a compelling, beautifully crafted graphic novel that offers a poignant glimpse into a critical period of Nepalese history. Its emotional depth, combined with its educational value, makes it a standout read. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction, graphic novels, or stories of resilience and hope.

A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC, to the author, and to the person who recommended. This is undoubtedly a five-star read.

I can add Alot more based on the value of the book, but it's enough for understanding.

I'm happy to share my thoughts on "Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War." This graphic novel offers an engaging and detailed look at the Nepali Civil War. The story captivates with its emotional depth and educational value, highlighting an often overlooked historical event. The illustrations are impactful for readers of all ages. This book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and provides a powerful message about justice and empathy. Many thanks to NetGalley. Definitely Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you so much for accepting my request for this ARC. I am currently reading the book, and it is so interesting and valuable. However, I haven't finished it yet. I will update my review upon completion. Thanks again!

A Tale of the Nepali Civil War --> is an absolutely amazing graphic novel that deserves 5 stars. Ram Khatri takes you right into Tara’s life—a peaceful, simple farm life turned upside down by the chaos of the Nepali Civil War. The story is so gripping and emotional, you can’t help but feel for Tara and her family as they face tough choices, visits from rebels and soldiers, and the heartbreak of losing loved ones. The illustrations are so detailed, making the characters and settings come alive. This book isn’t just a read; it’s an emotional journey that shows the strength and resilience of people in the face of war. Tara’s story of hope and determination is incredibly touching and offers a unique glimpse into Nepal’s history. If you want a story that’s both powerful and deeply moving, this is the one to pick up.

Nepali Civil War - is a compelling graphic novel. The author masterfully immerses us in Tara's life, a young girl whose peaceful existence on a farm is shattered by the violence and chaos of the Nepali Civil War. The story draws you in immediately, making you feel the emotional weight of Tara's journey as her family faces impossible choices, encounters with both rebels and soldiers and the heartbreaking loss of loved ones.

The illustrations are amazing, vividly bringing the characters and rich settings to life. Each page is a visual feast that enhances the narrative, making you feel as if you're right there alongside Tara. The depth of emotion conveyed through the artwork is extraordinary, adding layers to an already powerful story.

What sets this graphic novel apart is its ability to weave a deeply personal story with a significant historical backdrop. Tara’s tale of hope and perseverance amidst war and strife is incredibly moving. It offers readers a unique and profound insight into the impact of the Nepali Civil War on individuals and families. This isn’t just a book; it’s an emotional and educational experience that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. If you’re looking for a story that combines stunning visuals with a heartfelt narrative, "Justice" is the perfect choice.

Thanks AUTHOR for the approval of this graphic novel, thanks to NetGalley. Before this, I didn't actually know about the Nepali Civil War or much about Nepal itself—where the country is, its culture, its language, and its traditions. I learned a lot from this book as well as from my own research after completing it. This book is 100% worthwhile for those who are not familiar with the country and its people, who are not very well-known recently. I appreciate the author for giving an amazing vibe to the overall story. Though this is a very sad novel, you will still learn a lot. While many other reviewers focused on different topics within the book, my review is slightly different.

In the end, this graphic novel will encourage you to learn more about Nepal—where it is, what the country is like, its traditions, religions, and much more. However, my review is very general, but I discovered a lot more after completing this book through additional research.

Thanks a lot.

Thank you, NetGalley and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.

I gave this book 4.5 stars. I have never heard of the Nepali Civil War before and will research it. I loved the story and the characters. The art design was good, but some panels confused me. When something serious happens, for example, Tara and Maya are going to see their aunt and she shoos them away, Tara smiles or smirks while her sister pouts. Besides that it was good. This was my first time reading a nonfiction graphic novel and it was a quick read.

Review: Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War by Ram Khatri

First of all, I would like to appreciate the fact that the author, Ram Khatri, has chosen such an important topic for this work. It is truly crucial that the newer generation, especially in Nepal, should learn about their past, and a graphic novel is one of the most powerful mediums to achieve this purpose. Justice: A Tale of the Nepali Civil War is an excellent graphic novel that takes readers back to the times of the Maoist insurgency in Nepal, a conflict fought between the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) and the Kingdom of Nepal's rulers.

Through the narrator, Tara, we are introduced to the dangerous consequences of war and how it tore her life apart. She, along with her family, witnessed the horrors of a civil war that claimed her brother Sudeep. The novel beautifully explores the psychological state of the village people, who were the worst sufferers, being tortured by both the Maoists and the security forces alike.

As far as the narration is concerned, it is lucid and effectively captures the pain and struggles of the people. Sandipan Satra, as the illustrator, has done a good job bringing the story to life through his skilful illustrations, although I believe there was room for improvement. Sachin Shrestha has done an excellent job with the cover design, which truly encapsulates the essence of the story.

Overall, it was a rewarding experience to read this novel. I give it 5 stars for the amazing narration, good illustration, and overall reading experience. I highly recommend this book to young readers.

Thank you, Restart Publishing, Author Ram Khatri, and NetGalley for the ARC.

I really Enjoyed learning about a part of history that I didn’t have a lot of experience around. The pacing was good and the story had me interested since the start. I appreciate a “happy” ish ending in such a heavy story. The illustration wasn’t my favorite, but aside from that, I think it was well executed! Thank you for sharing this story with me!