Isadora Duncan: A Graphic Biography by Sabrina Jones

• ISBN: 978-0809094974
• Plot summary: This graphic novel explores the life of the American dancer, Isadora Duncan. The novel outlines her development as a dancer, her trials as she attempts to achieve fame while staying true to her art, and her various relationships with men. Isadora Duncan wanted nothing more than to dance and to share with people across the world her. Along the journey through various countries, she opened up a school of dance for girls and collaborated on projects. She lived for her art, and though it ruffled the feathers of some people, it also inspired others to embrace her mode of dance and her unconventional lifestyle.
• Critical evaluation: The format of a graphic novel is an interesting way to present information on such a historical figure in American culture. This form works well for a biography, especially for such an captivating human with a different way of living her life. She leapt from one opportunity to the next, depending on whichever country would take her, even to Russia where you were a communist for ever associating with them. She had multiple children by multiple men, at a time when it was unthinkable for women to have relations with men they weren't married to. An unconventional format for an unconventional format. I like that, and I think young people do, too.
• Reader's annotation: Isadora Duncan was an American icon, and in this telling of her story, you can see why.
• About the author: Sabrina Jones writes comics about women and lives in Brooklyn.
• Genre: Biography
• Curriculum ties, if any: History
• Booktalking ideas:
• What historical figures would you like to see captured in the comic format?
• Reading level/interest age: 15+
• Challenge issues: Sexuality
• Why was this item included? I was inspired by my classmates presentation!