Review by Ian Keogh

Nate enjoyed life at sea with his father, but the sea is a dangerous place and when Nate’s father is swept away by a rogue wave he’s sent to live with Storch, a rich relative his father hated. He keeps slaves, doesn’t treat them well, and despises any talk of revolution against the British rulers in 1776. It’s not a happy existence for Nate, but it’s a safe one until a moment changes everything and means he’s on his own in an area where war is about to break out.

Georgia Bell’s adaptations of Laura Tarshis’ novels to date have been very clearly rearranged for a graphic novel format, but here there’s a greater need to explain the background at the start. The unfortunate Nate’s circumstances are easily understood, but Storch’s prejudices aren’t enough to account for a forthcoming war, and it takes fifty pages before there’s any greater understanding.

Leo Trinidad’s art is far simpler than we’ve become used to on this series. It’s solid cartooning transmitting feelings, but little in the way of expanse. Close-up views of faces are the preferred panel and for a book dealing with army clashes Trinidad chooses to represent them by a handful of people on each side.

Considering 1776 the founding of the American nation conveniently brushes under the carpet North America being occupied long before the British arrived, never mind when their descendants decided they’d had enough of British rule. Such is history taught by the victors, and at least there’s passing mention in notes following the story.

It’s when Nate reconnects with someone from his earlier seafaring life that I Survived the American Revolution comes alive. He finds a place in the rebel camp, and day to day life in preparation for war is well explained. The personal touch gives greater resonance to the deprivation and illness, and Trinidad’s simplicity reduces the impact for youngsters when the horror of battle manifests.

It takes some time to get going, and one might wish for more varied art, but I Survived the American Revolution eventually tells a story well. Next up is I Survived the Battle of D-Day, 1944.