Starred Review It's often hard to interest students in long-ago events, but using a graphic novel to introduce the battle for Iwo Jima makes it very accessible. Before the graphic-novel section of the book begins, Hama provides a short, informative background piece describing the run-up to World War II, the significance of the Japanese war machine, and the importance of the tiny island of Iwo Jima. Then the graphic novel, illustrated by Williams in camouflage colors, does a terrific job of examining the ups and downs of the battle as well as the horror of so many losses both sides. That is one of the book's real strengths. Hama makes readers see the Japanese as real people and not just as the enemy. For instance, he introduces three young botany students who somehow arrived on Iwo Jima as the battle was beginning; and some readers may be surprised by the fact that the Japanese generals had spent time in the United States. This captivating book in the Graphic Battles of World War II series will encourage kids to read more. A glossary, short bibliography, and contact information for two relevant museums are appended.

WHITE, Steve . The Battle of Midway: The Destruction of the Japanese Fleet . illus. by Richard Elson. ISBN 978-1-4042-0783-7 . LC 2006007640. ea vol: 48p. (Graphic Battles of World War II Series). map. photos. reprods. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Rosen Central . 2007. PLB $29.25. Gr 5-9 These graphic histories provide fascinating human drama and detail. Four pages of opening text give background about each battle. They follow a traditional comics format: pen and ink, with each panel designed for maximum emotional impact. A general's windswept empty desk and a soldier's happy former life as he dreams are examples. Readers learn that a group of Japanese botany students was accidentally dropped off in Iwo Jima during the battle, and that the first American pilot to spot the Japanese fleet at Midway made a mistake in reporting the fleet's size. The accounts are not comprehensive but give readers a sense of the drama behind the event and its place in history. Students interested in history will likely pore over them and then move on to more in-depth titles. John Leighton, Brooklyn Public Library, NY