Book Review: I Survived the Attack of the Grizzlies, 1967: A Graphic Novel
When I first encountered Lauren Tarshis’s I Survived the Attack of the Grizzlies, 1967: A Graphic Novel, I was immediately drawn in by the premise. As someone who loves nature but also has a healthy respect (or is it fear?) of wild animals, I was intrigued by the real-life stakes faced by the characters. The idea that no human had ever been killed by a grizzly bear in Glacier National Park until the events of 1967 sets an ominous stage, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
This gripping graphic novel, adapted by Georgia Ball with stunning illustrations by Berat Pekmezci, follows eleven-year-old Melody Vega as she navigates not just the wilderness but also the heavy burden of her family’s recent loss. Glimpses of the breathtaking landscapes interspersed with moments of pure tension create a striking juxtaposition. As I flipped through the pages, I found myself caught between awe of the beautiful illustrations and the palpable tension of the story.
Melody is such a relatable character. We not only feel her love for the park’s majestic backdrop but also her struggle with deeper fears—her mother’s absence weighs heavily on her, much like that looming grizzly. This convergence of personal and external challenges speaks to the overarching themes of courage and survival. For Melody, facing her fears becomes a matter of life and death, leading to moments of reflection that resonate on both personal and universal levels.
The pacing is masterful; every panel pulls you into the next. The narrative swiftly shifts from serene moments of nature exploration to adrenaline-pumping encounters with wildlife, keeping younger readers (and the young at heart) on the edge of their seats. I found myself cheering for Melody not just to survive the bear encounter but also to confront her own emotional challenges.
Quotes like Melody’s inner mantra—“Don’t run, don’t turn your back”—summing up both bear safety and the emotional resilience she needs, struck a chord with me. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, the most daunting battles we face are within ourselves.
What truly sets this book apart is its blend of fact and fiction, seamlessly integrating historical elements from the tragic bear attacks of that summer. The nonfiction section at the back, rich with photos and insights, adds educational value that makes it suitable for classroom discussions or family reading nights. One reviewer aptly noted, “Finally, a graphic novel that isn’t full of silly nonsense,” and I couldn’t agree more—this book balances entertainment with learning brilliantly.
If you have a child aged 8-12 who enjoys adventure, history, or graphic novels, this book is a must-read. It speaks not just to those captivated by nature and wildlife, but also to anyone grappling with personal fears—a universal theme that connects us all.
As I closed the book, I reflected on how much my own fears sometimes hold me back. I Survived the Attack of the Grizzlies, 1967 is more than just a gripping story; it’s an inspiring tale that encourages its readers to confront their challenges with bravery. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the I Survived series or new to graphic novels, this book offers a meaningful experience worth diving into.