We have been a fan of Robert Smalls for some time, and when we heard that Legion M was going to take up the project to make a movie, we were excited. However, when we found out that it wasn’t going to be too easy, that to get the supporters for the film, they were going to release a four part graphic novel to help build up brand recognition, and then hopefully make the film, we were a bit disheartened.
Now, however, having interviewed the people behind the book, Rob Edwards (Writer), Nikolas Draper-Ivey (Cover Artist), Ray-Anthony Height (Interior Artist), Chris Robinson (Editor), see our interview Here, we are reinvigorated to the potential of the story finally getting out. Now, we got the chance to review the first out of four of the graphic novels, due to the fact that we backed the Kickstarter.
So lets jump into the first book of the graphic novel series!
Basic Synopsis
Focusing primarily on the youth of Robert Smalls and his time growing up on a plantation, being treated differently then other slaves, but with a constant reminder over his head that he is not free and will never be viewed the same by the white people around him. As a result of the attention from his slave owner, Smalls primarily deals with the aspect, as Rob Edwards put it, slavery with a smile. People who use the system as an excuse for why they live in and support the world of slavery.
As Smalls continues to become bold and braisen, he deals with his mother being forced to take him to a slave auction, where he truly sees humanity for what it really is.
My Take
It’s heartbreaking and powerful the way that the creators of this comic book present, and artfully convey the horrors of slavery. It’s unnerving, but that’s the point. It’s important to not turn a blind eye to the horrors of our history. However, we shouldn’t take away from this situation, how much Robert Smalls had to endure, and through it all, how he not only survived it, but at every momment on his journey found a way to push back against the system and shine in a world that did nothing but push back against him.
I can’t wait to see the next stage of the story, and hope that our love for this historical character helps lead to more people getting to know more about him!
You can pick up the first issue Here.
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