graphic novel review: How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less by Sarah Glidden

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How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or LessThe backstory: Entertainment Weekly named How to Understand Israel in 60 Days or Less as one of the 10 Best Graphic Novels of 2010.

 The basics: Sarah Glidden goes on a birthright trip to Israel with trepidation because of Israeli policies. Is it all propaganda or will it be a great experience?

 My thoughts: For some reason, I have been having an incredibly difficult time reviewing this lovely graphic memoir. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It was a fascinating look into the birthright trip experience, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and young adulthood. Sarah Glidden is refreshingly honest about her struggles with Israel and Palestine. She wants there to be a right answer, and she hopes to find it through her thorough pre-trip research and open eyes throughout her trip.

The verdict: I shared in Glidden's frustrations at the complexity of life. Her trip is emotional in so many ways, and I truly felt I experienced it with her, through both her watercolor art and words.

 Rating: 4.5 stars (out of 5)
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: November 9, 2010
Source: my fantastic local public library

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Comments

  1. ZibileeMarch 7, 2011 at 2:22 PM

    I hadn't hear of this book, but it does sound interesting. I am not familiar with the term "birthright trip" though I think it might be self explanatory. I think this is something that I would like to check out, and I like the fact that you were able to experience the journey through the author's eyes.

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  2. KathleenMarch 7, 2011 at 4:26 PM

    Sounds like just the sort of graphic novel that I need to put on my list to read.

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  3. AthiraMarch 7, 2011 at 7:52 PM

    I've been looking for more graphic nonfiction books to read, and this looks like one right up my alley! I'm going to look for it!

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  4. WallaceMarch 8, 2011 at 5:07 PM

    I love a good graphic novel that gives interesting information. It's such a fresh way of presenting stories while at the same time entertaining people.

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  5. TheBookGirlMarch 9, 2011 at 8:54 AM

    I read my first graphic novel last year and was surprised at how much I loved it. It was also a nonfiction offering. I have been meaning to read another one, and this looks like a good one. Thanks for bringing it to my attention :)

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  6. Marie CloutierMarch 9, 2011 at 9:09 AM

    I really want to read this one! I've heard nothing but good things about it and your review just adds to the pile! :-)

    ReplyDelete

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