From a graphic novel series called History Comics. Illustrated by Falynn Koch. Really nice images, a bit busy at times- so much going on! Tells (obviously) the story of mustangs in North America- how horses first had their origin here, went extinct, were re-introduced and became an integral part of Native American lives. The part that horses played in warfare, westward expansion, and development. How their importance was shouldered out by vehicles and they were shot by cattlemen who wanting the grazing land. Many rounded up and slaughtered for pet food. And finally, the work of ‘Wild Horse Annie’ to save the mustangs, ending with protections that are currently in place, and how to adopt a mustang. This book is so jam packed with details. Little stories from various parts of history that feature the mustangs. Information about horse physiology and some breeds that were forerunners of the mustangs. How horses were a sign of wealth among many Native tribes, and the heyday of horse stealing. So much that I didn’t know before!
I just failed to appreciate the delivery method. I liked the illustrations, but the entire book (nearly every single page) is presented by three outside characters- two comic figures that look like skinny Gumby with weird hats, and a stick-figure type horse (actually supposed to be a petroglyph I think) that walked out of the background, who converse together to present the stories and facts. The goofy figures are supposed to be funny, the horse is setting them straight with his knowledge. I guess this appeals to kids? I found it annoying and tiresome. So much so that I really only skimmed most of the book, and while a few of the other titles in this series had caught my eye on the back cover (Roanoke, American bison) I now have no interest in reading them.
Borrowed from the public library. Completed on 7/6/24.
