For young history buffs and adventure seekers, this graphic novel brings a fresh, dynamic perspective to the iconic Lewis and Clark expedition across America.
For a child who finds traditional history textbooks dry, or for a visual learner who thrives on action, this graphic novel offers a gripping entry point into American history. It dramatizes the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, transforming a historical event into a page-turning adventure full of peril and discovery. The story highlights themes of perseverance, teamwork, and bravery in the face of incredible hardship. Due to mild profanity and realistic depictions of violence inherent in a survival story, it is best suited for older elementary and middle school readers. It’s an excellent choice for reluctant readers, making a complex journey feel immediate, personal, and exciting.
Deaths of expedition members and others occur but are not dwelled upon graphically.
Cultural Content GapModerate
Told from the explorers' perspective; may require context on the impact to Native Americans.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with violence and death directly, as befitting a dangerous expedition. This includes hunting, animal attacks, and armed conflict between humans, with some depictions of injury. The approach is realistic rather than gratuitous. The portrayal of Native Americans is from the perspective of the white explorers; while not overtly derogatory, it lacks a deeper Indigenous perspective. A parent may want to provide additional context about the long-term historical impact of this expedition on Native peoples. The resolution is one of realistic, hard-won success.
Ideal Reader
A 10 to 13-year-old who is a visual learner and loves action-adventure stories. This book is perfect for a child who enjoys survival stories like Hatchet but prefers the graphic novel format. It will also appeal to kids interested in history but turned off by dense textbooks, providing a dynamic and character-driven way into the past.
Parent Prep
Parents should preview the grizzly bear attack sequence and a tense, violent confrontation with a Native tribe. It is helpful to frame the book as a *fictionalized* account based on real events. Preparing to discuss the historical context, especially the complex and varied relationships with Native Americans and the long-term consequences of westward expansion, will greatly enrich the reading experience. A parent hears their child say, "History is so boring," or sees them struggling to engage with their social studies homework. The child might be an avid fan of adventure movies or video games, and the parent is looking for a book that can capture that same kind of excitement.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will likely focus on the thrilling survival aspects: the animal attacks, navigating rapids, and the clear sense of an epic quest. An older reader (11-14) is more equipped to appreciate the psychological toll on the characters, the leadership challenges faced by Lewis and Clark, the historical significance of their mission, and the nuances of their cross-cultural encounters.
What Makes It Special
Its graphic novel format is the key differentiator among books on this topic. Nick Bertozzi's expressive art makes the historical journey feel visceral, immediate, and emotionally resonant. It uniquely translates the physical and psychological exhaustion of the expedition into a visual medium, making the history accessible and compelling for a modern youth audience.
Read plot summary
This fictionalized graphic novel chronicles the journey of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they lead the Corps of Discovery from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean. The narrative focuses on the major challenges they faced: navigating treacherous terrain, enduring harsh weather, surviving dangerous encounters with wildlife like grizzly bears, and negotiating complex relationships with various Native American tribes. The crucial roles of figures like Sacagawea are also highlighted as the team pushes through exhaustion and uncertainty to complete its mission.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Sacagawea was crucial to the expedition. How did the author show her importance in the drawings and dialogue, not just through what Lewis and Clark said about her?
2
Lewis is shown struggling with what he calls “melancholy.” Why do you think it was important for the author to include this personal struggle in a story about a great explorer?
3
The Corps of Discovery met many different Native American tribes. Compare the group's encounter with the Shoshone to their encounter with the Teton Sioux. What factors led to such different outcomes?
4
Look at the panels depicting the grizzly bear attack. How does the artist use panel shapes, frantic lines, and character expressions to create a feeling of fear and chaos?
