1177 B. C.: A Graphic History of the Year Civilization Collapsed

Gr 10 Up–Almost a decade after archaeologist and author Cline published the fourth book in his series “Turning Points in Ancient History,” he and author-illustrator Fawkes have adapted it into a graphic novel, hypothesizing the collapse of ancient civilization. Using human tour guides in contemporary history to look back at the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean civilizations, they focus on six kingdoms, including the Egyptians and Assyrians, pondering their downfall. Make no mistake, both the original book and its graphic adaptation are best suited for an adult audience. Teen scholars and researchers could very well understand the intricacies of art and architecture, marriages, war, and agriculture through the book’s artistic adaptation, but it is not for a general teen audience without a basic understanding of ancient civilizations. The amount of text leaves enough room for a visual component, especially as it relates to statuary and communication that researchers continue to use to theorize about the collapse. Regardless, the book’s concept does not work without the copious amounts of information provided. Ultimately, theories are still being shared and debated. Could it have been a drought or famine? Could it have been rebellions and war? The book provides an ideal amount of information for readers to make their own educated guesses and primes them for further research.