First Man: Reimagining Matthew Henson (Library Binding) (ISBN-13: 9781467758420)

In this graphic novel, Simon Schwartz weaves biography and fiction together to explore the life of Arctic adventurer Matthew Henson. Moving between different time periods and incorporating Inuit mythology, Schwartz offers a fresh perspective on the many challenges Henson confronted during his life.

As a member of early missions to reach the North Pole, Henson braved subzero temperatures and shifting sea ice. As an African American at the turn of the twentieth century, he also faced harassment and prejudice. Henson won a place on Arctic expeditions through skill and determination--though he didn't receive the same credit as his teammates. He also won the respect of the native peoples he met during his journeys--though he couldn't prevent the harm that the expeditions caused them.

More than a biography, First Man: Reimagining Matthew Henson is an artistic homage to Henson's accomplishments and the complicated realities of being a trailblazer in a society that didn't recognize black men as equals.

Author: Simon Schwartz
ISBN-10: 1467758426
ISBN-13: 9781467758420
Publisher: Graphic Universe (Tm)
Language: English
Published: 08/01/2015
Pages: 160
Format: Library Binding
Weight: 1.28lbs
Size: 9.27h x 7.36w x 0.33d

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 4.4
Point Value: 1
Interest Level: Upper Grade
Quiz #/Name: 177741 / First Man: Reimagining Matthew Henson


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 09/01/2015
Booklist 09/15/2015 pg. 52
School Library Journal 10/01/2015 pg. 119