By Water

January 1, 2023
An ambitious biography--in graphic-novel style--of an early Anabaptist martyr. Intriguing watercolors--evocative of both Hieronymus Bosch and 1970s op art--precede the opening pages. Each of nine subsequent chapters begins with one calligraphic title page and one page of pseudo-medieval art. The first chapter grabs readers' attention by depicting beheaded saints--heads held in their hands--and showing several frames of a gang of boys beating another boy and calling him a bastard. A young, bloodied Felix Manz speaks plainly of his absentee father, who was a priest. A double-page spread gives an overview of the setting of Manz's childhood in the church-ruled city of Zurich, known for its mercenary fighters. Readers meet Manz's devoted mother, join a crowd celebrating Zurich's patron saints, learn of Manz's privileged schooling, and glimpse his nascent religious fervor. The chapters that follow use accessible language and abundant visual cues in softly colored, action-packed art. Other historical figures come into play as Manz journeys from eager university student to zealous reformer to renegade leading an intentional Christian pacifist community. Under penalty of death, Manz refuses to stop performing adult baptisms--considered heretical--and he utters some of Jesus' final words as he dies. Despite the thoughtful introductory note from Landsel and abundant backmatter, readers who lack a background in Christian theology and Reformation-era history may be perplexed. Engaging but best understood by initiates. (historical figures, timeline, historical notes, Felix Manz's hymn, bibliography) (Graphic nonfiction. 13-18)

COPYRIGHT(2023) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

July 21, 2023

Gr 10 Up-A lesser-known chapter in the history of Protestantism, the story of Felix Manz is an absorbing journey of enlightenment, rebellion, and sacrifice. Sixteenth-century Zurich sets the scene for young Manz, living in the era of Martin Luther, who has already been posing dangerous questions and ideas conflicting with the teachings of the all-powerful Catholic church for several years. Manz's extensive education has led him to more questions than answers, and his deep dive into theology radicalizes his beliefs to the point of coming into deadly conflict with the religious leaders he once revered. As Manz gathers earnest followers that reject core practices like infant baptism, authorities bear down on these free thinkers with an intensity that will leave its mark on history. As with most graphic nonfiction, this title is successful in giving valuable visual context for an important snapshot of history, though the story is somewhat effusive with characters that are difficult to keep straight. Some mature language marks this more suitable to older teens. The art by Banerjee is gorgeous; evocative of illuminated manuscripts, stained glass, and the mosaics that make up the medieval art of the age. VERDICT Recommended for libraries with robust circulation in graphic novels and biographies.-Michael Marie Jacobs

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.