83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary

The young adult graphic novel "83 Days in Mariupol" depicts the complexities of the war in Ukraine, focusing on the siege of Mariupol and the brave people who stayed to defend their city against Russian forces. The book highlights the horrors of the siege and the depredations of its people, reminding us of the bloody defiance shown in historical events like The Alamo and Dunkirk. It is a story of senseless destruction, patriotism, and grit against long odds, with consequences that continue to reverberate across Ukraine and reshape the global political landscape.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

A young adult graphic novel that delves into the intricate complexities of the war in Ukraine, specifically focusing on the siege of Mariupol from February 22 to May 22. The novel sheds light on the brave individuals who remained in the city, determined to defend it against Russian forces, and the profound impact this siege had on global politics.

Mariupol, a Ukrainian city situated on the border with Russian-occupied territory, faced an imminent defeat that seemed inevitable within days or even hours. However, the resilient Ukrainian people resisted, displaying a heroic combination of sacrifice and bravery that allowed the besieged city to endure for months.

The novel, written by Don Brown, the creator of the Sibert Honor series, offers a poignant portrayal of the horrors experienced by the people of Mariupol during the siege. Brown's compassionate storytelling and his keen journalistic eye bring to life the depredations that the city's residents endured, not seen since World War II. He also highlights the similarities in the city's agonies and those occurring in towns and cities across Ukraine.

"83 Days in Mariupol" serves as a stark reminder that the valiant defiance displayed at historical landmarks such as The Alamo, Dunkirk, Leningrad, and Thermopylae is not confined to the past but has a violent, modern presence. It is the story of senseless destruction, patriotism, and resilience against overwhelming odds, a brutal battle that continues to reverberate across Ukraine and has a profound impact on the global political landscape.

The siege of Mariupol not only highlighted the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people but also exposed the geopolitical implications of the conflict. The city's strategic importance and its proximity to Russian-occupied territory made it a target for the Russian military. The siege demonstrated the vulnerability of smaller nations and the need for international cooperation in addressing global security challenges.

Furthermore, the novel sheds light on the human cost of war. It portrays the devastating impact that conflict has on individuals, families, and communities. The characters in the novel face unimaginable hardships, including lack of food, water, and medical supplies, as well as the fear and uncertainty of living under constant threat of violence.

The siege of Mariupol also highlighted the role of international diplomacy and the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts. The international community, including countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, came together to provide support to Ukraine and pressure Russia to end the siege. This diplomatic effort demonstrated the power of collective action and the potential for international cooperation in addressing global challenges.

In conclusion, "83 Days in Mariupol" is a powerful and poignant graphic novel that delves into the complexities of the war in Ukraine. It offers a compelling portrayal of the bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people, as well as the devastating consequences of conflict. The novel serves as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation, diplomacy, and human rights, and the need to seek peaceful resolutions to global security challenges.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 163 x 225 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063311565