This graphic novel follows the Loxley family during the invasion of Canada by America in 1812. The story follows the men and women who did their best for their country and family during a time of war. There’s action and adventure, pain and loss, and all the tender moments that make the Loxley’s a relatable and very real family.
Written by Alan Grant with art by Claude St. Aubin, The Loxley’s and the War of 1812 is a piece of historical fiction that is successful both as a narrative and an educational tool. The story and characters are sound while the history lesson is presented in an entertaining way.
When I went into this story I knew very little about the War of 1812. In fact, most of my friends didn’t even know what it really consisted of. After learning that America had invaded Canada during the first part of the graphic novel, I was hooked in. If anyone ever said you couldn’t learn anything from comics, I’d dare a history teacher to read this story and try to argue that point again.
The artwork by Claude St. Aubin is pretty solid. It’s not spectacular, but it does recreate Canada in an accurate and expressive way. The characters and settings always felt authentic and it was paced incredibly well.
This is a book that would be great for any history buff or student who is currently researching this point in history. It’s a war that many American students aren’t completely briefed on, and it’s an important piece of history that should be remembered on both sides.
