Indigenous Comics and Graphic Novels: Studies in Genre

Studios like Marvel and DC have successfully transformed comics into major motion pictures, while bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Indigo have increased their space for comic books and graphic novels. However, mainstream publishers, booksellers, production houses, and academics have given little attention to Indigenous artists' work. Despite this, Indigenous artists are increasingly turning to graphic narratives, with publishers like Native Realities LLC and Highwater Press carving out more space for Indigenous creators. James J. Donahue's book, Indigenous Comics and Graphic Novels: Studies in Genre, aims to interrogate and unravel the disparities of representation in the fields of comics studies and comics publishing and emphasizes the importance of creating artistic and critical spaces for Indigenous comics and graphic novels.

Format: Hardback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2024
Publisher: University Press of Mississippi

In recent years, studios like Marvel and DC have achieved enormous success in transforming comics into major motion pictures. At the same time, bookstores such as Barnes & Noble in the US and Indigo in Canada have made more room for comic books and graphic novels on their shelves. Despite the sustained popular appeal and the heightened availability of these media, Indigenous artists continue to find their work given little attention by mainstream publishers, booksellers, production houses, and academics. Nevertheless, Indigenous artists are increasingly turning to graphic narratives, with publishers like Native Realities LLC and Highwater Press carving out ever more space for Indigenous creators.

In Indigenous Comics and Graphic Novels: Studies in Genre, James J. Donahue aims to interrogate and unravel the disparities of representation in the fields of comics studies and comics publishing. Donahue documents and analyzes the works of several Indigenous artists, including Theo Tso, Todd Houseman, and Arigon Starr. Through topically arranged chapters, the author explores a wide array of content produced by Indigenous creators, from superhero and science fiction comics to graphic novels and experimental narratives. While noting the importance of examining how Indigenous works are analyzed, Donahue emphasizes that the creation of artistic and critical spaces for Indigenous comics and graphic novels should be an essential concern for the comics studies field.

The book is organized into five chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of Indigenous comics and graphic novels. Chapter 1, "Introduction: Mapping the Field," provides an overview of the history and development of Indigenous comics and graphic novels, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for representation. Chapter 2, "Representation and Identity," explores how Indigenous artists use comics and graphic novels to express their cultural identities and experiences, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. Chapter 3, "Genre and Style," examines the various genres and styles of Indigenous comics and graphic novels, including superhero comics, science fiction, horror, and historical fiction. Chapter 4, "Contextualization and Analysis," examines how Indigenous comics and graphic novels are contextualized within broader cultural and historical contexts, including colonization, resistance, and resilience. Chapter 5, "Conclusion: Toward a More Inclusive Future," offers a conclusion and recommendations for the future of Indigenous comics and graphic novels, including the need for greater recognition, support, and representation.

Overall, Indigenous Comics and Graphic Novels: Studies in Genre is a valuable contribution to the field of comics studies, providing a comprehensive and insightful examination of the works of Indigenous artists and the challenges they face in the comics industry. Donahue's analysis is grounded in a deep understanding of the cultural and historical contexts that shape Indigenous comics and graphic novels, and his recommendations for the future are grounded in a commitment to promoting greater inclusivity and representation in the field.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496850492