Brown, Don. 83 Days in Mariupol: A War Diary. Don Brown, Illus. Clarion, 05/2023. 128pp. Graphic. Trade $22.99. 978-0-06-331156-5. GRADES 9 – 12. OUTSTANDING.
As in his other nonfiction graphic novels, Brown masterfully mixes direct quotes from participants with blow-by-blow descriptions of eighty-three days in a Ukrainian war zone. His narrative of the siege on Mariupol by Russian forces in February of 2022 brings home to readers what it feels like when ordinary people find themselves in unbelievably horrible circumstances. A map and a two-page prologue summarize one thousand years of history and set the stage for understanding. Brown’s signature sketchy ink wash and line drawings convey enough specificity to allow readers to connect, but the smooth faces and often empty eyes allow readers some distance from the suffering. Brown doesn’t shy away from noting atrocities. Back matter includes an afterword outlining the present, bleak situation, source notes, and a bibliography.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired