Intrigue, Betrayal, Adventure and Courage in Boston 1775

Massachusetts, April 19, 1775. The "shot heard round the world" sparks the American Revolution and alters the course of history. Many events relating to the Battles of Concord and Lexington between the American colonists and the armies of King George III have grown into pop culture legends such as Paul Revere's ride. Yet, the turbulent intrigues and momentous power plays that rocked Boston long before that pivotal day have received comparatively little attention.

That will soon change!

The detailed plot of Boston 1775, my first book-size graphic novel for children and adults, is almost finished. Two fictional characters will have to choose between freedom and servitude as their paths cross those of historical figures (Sam Adams, Phillis Wheatley, Paul Revere, John Hancock, Dr. Joseph Warren, General Thomas Gage, his "American" wife, Margaret Kemble Gage, and many more).

Stay tuned!

Where the Wild Things Are: Children's Graphic Novels

I have been teaching and championing the study of the art of graphic novels since 2002 from Coast to Coast, at the Comic-Con and through the National Association of Comic Art Educators. What a ride we have experienced as we have seen comics gain more cultural, commercial, and academic acceptance. Yet, one of my rare regrets during all those years came from the lack of children’s graphic novels. The irony! In many minds, comics are for children. In reality, these days, only few graphic novels come out catering to readers, ages 2 to 12. Françoise Mouly and Art Spiegelman’s Little Lit was a wonderful exception. Well, times are changing, and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators knows it! I have been granted the honor of championing graphic novels for children at their 8th Annual SCBWI Winter Conference in New York (Feb. 9-11, 2007) through a series of presentations. The world of children’s graphic novels is going to be a great adventure! That’s where tomorrow’s “wild things are”! Be part of it in New York with us!