Global Graphic Novel Takes on Global Warming

Something that I have noticed lately is this new wave of caring for the earth and the ecosystem. People like Bill Nye and Neil degrasse Tyson have been using their platforms to cry out for help on behalf of the earth. The younger generation has been using their voices too, creating protests and rallies to advocate for climate change. It makes sense to use a graphic novel to bring more awareness to the new generations, since they will soon be the ones making these decisions.

One of my favorite ways that the authors of As the World Burns do this is to have the animals speak for themselves. These animals are literally begging not to be tested on, not to be seen as disposable, not to use their homes as dumping grounds for toxic waste. It's one thing for an academic, scientific journal to discuss these issues at length, but it's something completely different when drawings (however crude) of these animals are begging for help. While I can make the argument that there are too many words on a single panel for my taste, it really captures the essence that there is so much to take in and try to change when it comes to our ecosystem and our eco-footprints.

It's also something that is effecting everyone around the globe. This earth is the only one we have. This planet is the only one that can sustain us and we are slowly killing it. If we don't make a change, it doesn't matter what your nationality, skin tone, or religion is. We won't have a place to live and everyone will die. It's the sad truth, but this graphic novel was pushing for the tough love that may just make some people change.

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ENG 4433: Topics in World Lit

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