For kids eager for real-life adventure and untold stories, this graphic novel introduces Nat Love, a courageous Black cowboy who defied expectations to become a legend of the Old West.
A parent might reach for this book when their child craves action-packed adventures but needs to see heroes from underrepresented backgrounds. This graphic novel brings to life the true story of Nat Love, a Black man born into slavery who, after the Civil War, headed west and became a legendary cowboy. The book masterfully blends historical facts with high-stakes adventure, exploring powerful themes of resilience, self-reliance, and forging an identity in the face of prejudice. For ages 8-14, it's an exhilarating and accessible way to introduce a more complete and diverse picture of American history, celebrating a real-life hero who defied all odds.
Portrayal of Native Americans reflects the 19th-century source material and may seem stereotypical.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the historical realities of slavery and racism. Nat's early life is depicted matter-of-factly, and he faces prejudice throughout his journey. The approach is historical, not metaphorical, showing racism as an obstacle he overcomes with skill and determination. Violence is a key element of the Wild West setting, with gunfights and conflicts shown directly but not gratuitously. The portrayal of Native Americans reflects the perspective of Nat Love's own writing and the era, which can be seen as stereotypical. The resolution is hopeful, focusing on Nat's personal success and fame.
Ideal Reader
This is perfect for a 9-12 year old who loves action and history but may be a reluctant reader. It's especially powerful for a Black child seeking historical heroes who are adventurers and trailblazers, offering a narrative beyond the typical figures of the Civil Rights movement. Also excellent for any child who thinks history is boring and needs to see it come alive.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical context of the post-Civil War West. Previewing the gun violence and, specifically, the chapters depicting conflict with Native Americans (around pages 82-95) is recommended. This section provides a critical opportunity to discuss how historical accounts are shaped by the perspectives of the time and to talk about the complex, often violent, history between settlers and Indigenous peoples. A parent might seek this book after hearing their child say, "There were no Black cowboys," or when looking for engaging Black history material that focuses on empowerment and adventure, not solely on oppression.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-10) will be captivated by the action: taming wild horses, the thrill of the cattle drive, and the excitement of the shooting competition. An older reader (11-14) will better grasp the social subtext: the courage it took for a formerly enslaved man to build a new life, the systemic racism he faced, and the significance of his achievements in a predominantly white narrative of the West.
What Makes It Special
Its graphic novel format makes a complex biography dynamic and accessible. It uniquely centers a Black protagonist in the Western genre, a space from which Black people have been largely erased in popular culture. By adapting a primary source (Nat Love's own autobiography), it provides a direct, personal voice to a historical figure, making his story feel immediate and authentic.
Read plot summary
This graphic novel biography follows the life of Nat Love, based on his 1907 autobiography. The story begins with his youth in slavery in Tennessee, his emancipation after the Civil War, and his decision to seek freedom and fortune in the American West. It chronicles his education as a cowboy in Texas, his dangerous life on the cattle trail facing stampedes and rustlers, and his ultimate triumph at a rodeo in Deadwood, Dakota Territory, where his remarkable skills in roping, riding, and shooting earn him the legendary nickname "Deadwood Dick."
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Nat Love was born into slavery, but he never let that define his future. What skills and character traits did he develop that helped him become a famous cowboy?
2
On page 47, the trail boss says, 'I don't care if a man is red, yellow, black, or white... as long as he can do the job.' How was this attitude different from what Nat experienced elsewhere? Do you think the West was a place of more opportunity for everyone?
3
In the Deadwood competition, Nat wins against many other skilled cowboys. Why was winning the shooting contest and earning the nickname 'Deadwood Dick' so important for his identity and reputation?
4
This is a graphic novel. Pick a page or panel that you found powerful. How do Randy DuBurke's illustrations help tell Nat's story in a way that words alone could not?
