Author: Norah McClintock
Illustrator: Mike Deas
Format: Graphic Novel
ISBN: 9781554697892
Publisher: Orca Book Publishers
Pub Date: October/01/2012
Pages: 144
Synopsis
In a dark back alley, Boone and Andre witness a violent murder, and agree not to mention it. But the killers have different ideas and come after Boone and his friends, killing two of them. Boone is desperate to save himself but realizes to do so he will need to face the violent act in his past that continues to haunt him.
Told in Norah McClintock’s trademark suspenseful style and with spare black-and-white illustrations from Mike Deas, this compelling graphic novel looks into the darkness and forces us to face our deepest fears.
Awards
2012 Junior Library Guild Selection
Reviews
Kirkus Reviews – October 1, 2012
“Boone’s reasons for not coming forward are complex and interesting…[and] the mystery Boone solves surrounding the unrelated murder will engage…The use of red as an accent in moments of violence is effective.”
CM Magazine – October 5, 2012
“A suspenseful, murder mystery-themed graphic novel…McClintock has crafted an intriguing story, one which is not only entertaining to read, but is also surprisingly complex and comprehensive despite occupying less than one hundred and fifty pages…Deas’ illustrations are wonderful additions to the story, working well to support and, at key points, enhance the text laid out by McClintock. The black and white artwork, while simple and sketchy at times, suits the gritty tone perfectly while splashes of red are also incorporated throughout in an attempt to highlight and bring attention and importance to scenes of violence…Readers who are admirers of crime and detective stories will surely find I, Witness to be an enjoyable and satisfying read…Highly Recommended.”
Booklist – November 15, 2012
“McClintock…shows her customary concerns with character development, fast and abrupt action, and the effectiveness of showing different viewpoints. Deas’ dramatic black-and-white artwork is splashed with a bright blood red spilt across those panels where violence occurs. The story demonstrates the dark power of eyewitnesses who, either through a code of silence of fear of reprisal, don’t share information when murder is committed…An effective thriller that raises questions about the complicity of silence on violence.”
