5 Comics That Explore Unique Native American Themes and Identity

With the arrival of Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to check out Native American comics. Graphic novels are a relatively recent medium, yet they have a unique knack for getting straight to the core of a narrative. They offer a dual layer of understanding, which aids in grasping complex themes. By combining text with visuals, this art form allows us to engage with the work in its entirety. Comics serve as a crucial tool for ease of accessibility. Those who struggle with a 300-page novel might find a 300-page graphic novel much more manageable. 

5 Native American Comics Worth Checking Out

These selections provide a glimpse into native and indigenous heroes, both traditional and contemporary. It showcases history, original and creative storytelling, modern problems, accomplishments, and heroism. Let’s look at some graphic novels that celebrate the diversity of indigenous comic book heroes, both past and present. 

“500 Years of Indigenous Resistance”

This groundbreaking graphic novel by Gord Hill is more poignant and powerful than ever. Themes from the Spanish conquest in South America to the Oka Crisis are explored in this Native American comic. With stunning illustrations, this book is an absolute testament to the strength of Indigenous Resistance. It’s also a great starting point for anybody wanting to learn about Native American history.

“The Wool of Jonesy”

Written and illustrated by Diné artist Jonathan Nelson, “The Wool of Jonesy” narrates the tale of Jonesy the Sheep and his adventures on the “rez.” Jonesy explores life after school and sets out to find his identity. This ingenious, themed, and beautifully illustrated story gives both young and old readers alike a captivating view of reservation life through the eyes of a creative and original character.

“Tales of the Mighty Code Talkers”

This series of comics are inspired by the code talkers during WWI, WWII, and the Korean Conflict. Code talkers were not just Navajo, some were Choctaw., Cherokee, and even Osage. Based on true accounts, this phenomenal graphic novel by Arigon Starr features nine original stories by Indigenous and Native American artists. There’s also a lesson plan for teachers who want to use this as a tool to teach their students. 

“Spirit”

“Spirit” is an indigenous comic published in 4 languages (Cree, Chıpewyan, Slavey, and English). It’s written by award-winning Richard Van Camp, famed Dogrib (Tlicho) Nation artist and author. Complex and often difficult themes, such as bullying and suicide, are dealt with in this thoughtfully penned Native American graphic novel.

“If I Go Missing”

Brianna Jonnie was the tender age of 14 when she wrote a compelling letter to the Winnipeg police when her best friend went missing. In her letter, she heartbreakingly urged police to “not treat [her] as the Indigenous person [she is] proud to be,” if she were ever reported missing. Her original letter went viral and became the inspiration for a 2018 documentary, as well as this graphic novel. It serves as an important and relevant piece when researching MMIWG. (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls) 

Native American Comics: Honorable Mentions

“Tonto” was one of the original comic books in the 1950s. Originally, it started off as a companion to the Lone Ranger. Soon, Tonto eventually gained more recognition as a strong Native American comic character. 

“Moonshot” is a First Nations and indigenous comic series designed to showcase work from dozens of creators. This collection features traditional indigenous storytelling while honoring hopeful and bright visions of the future.

To Sum Up

These comics are chosen here to celebrate the diversity of comic book heroes, both past and present. Many of these may help fulfill some of your reading goals. We urge you always to broaden your reading horizons. Challenge yourself, take initiative – and work towards a decolonized bookshelf.