Like Maus and Persepolis (both in the library), Stassen’s graphic novel proves that difficult subject matter can be a perfect fit for this medium. Set in Rwanda during the major conflicts between Hutus and Tsuti’s of the 1990′s, this story follows one young Hutu man’s life before and after the civil war. Shifting in time, with the help of color palate’s, between before and after his actions in the war, we learn that Deogratias was good friends with two Tsuti girls. Still the pressures of war and his responsibility are overwhelming, and we learn from him that neutral seems to be impossible. The preface helps to prepare the reader for what follows, but still this is a harrowing and graphic tale. More so, because it talks about a real history.
