Andre the Giant: Life and Legend by Box Brown

Brown, B. (2014). Andre the giant: life and legend. New York: FirstSecond.

 This is the unique biography of "Andre the Giant" or Andre Rousimoff in that it is also happens to be a graphic novel.  The story describes his life including his famous moments as an actor in The Princess Bride and as a professional wrestler but also his journey and physical and emotional struggles with his rare disease that caused his super size, enlarged features, and organ complications.  It is an emotional story that remembers and honors him as a person not just a character. The book includes a bibliography, author source notes, and a glossary of professional wrestling terminology. It also describes the entertainment and performance aspects of professional wrestling. 

 This book is a great updated version of what a biography can be. It is not just a list of facts but a personal story unravelled. This biography helps "young adults get to know people different from themselves" (Chance,p. 110) as well as to demonstrate "how decisions, opportunities, and changes influence one's life."  This book might be a valuable resource for a teacher who is in need of some more exciting biographical research choices, for boys who have an interest in sports and wrestling, or for any reluctant reader who likes the experience that a graphic novel can provide.  It is a valuable book that offers both a research opportunity and enjoyable entertainment.

Chance, R.  2014. Young adult literature in action: a librarian's guide/ second edition.  Libraries Unlimited. Santa Barbara, California