Review of "Boxers" by Gene Luen Yang

OVERVIEW:
The year is 1898 and China struggles between old culture beliefs and their new English inhabitants occupying the cities and enforcing Christian doctrine. Little Bao lives in the country happily, teased by his brothers, but proud of his family. However, Chinese Christian-converts begin harassing his town, leading his village inhabitants to fight back against the unfair English affairs. When his mentor and friend, Red Lantern, leaves the town defenseless, Little Bao takes up his mentor's sword and trains in the mystic arts. Possessing the powers and spirits of ancient Chinese warriors, Little Bao leads the rebellion against the English invaders, fighting to regain the land for China.

RATING: (4 out of 5)
This book was exciting, riveting, and provided an interesting look into the historical event. Mixing history with fantasy, Yang's graphic novel is intriguing for young readers. The composition allows readers intimidated by more traditional or lengthy texts to read like viewers watching a film. The content explores the Boxers' perspective on the war, but I do not believe the text accurately looks into the events of the rebellion. The images are captivating and colorful, quick to read and easy to understand. The images are clean and absent of vulgarity. There are instances of violence that could be either disturbing to sensitive individuals or exciting to adventurist youths. The novel is a companion book and should readers be intrigued to read the other side of the story, they are encouraged to continue reading with Saints, which gives the account through a Christian character's standpoint.

TO PARENTS:
The book contains fairly graphic fight scenes, including beatings and stabbings. Some violent acts are hinted at (as in happens outside of the drawn area/ or off screen if that makes more sense) but the wounds from those violent acts are revealed on the edges of other drawings. If you or your young reader are sensitive with images of head wounds, stabbings, or decapitated persons (regardless of how cartoon-y they may be) you may choose to refrain from this piece of literature. However, if you are comfortable with your child handling such material or need a quick perusal yourself, the graphic novel is brief and consistent in art style, allowing you to quickly determine if this book is acceptable for your young reader.