Comanche Moon

This story recounts the last days of the war-loving Comanche tribe, their nomadic existence and their eventual concession to white settlers. Illustrated and written by noted underground cartoonist Jackson, whose previous works chronicled Texas's founding history, this work is a rare combination of historical writing and compassionate storytelling in the graphic novel form. Jackson weaves richly detailed vignettes about the clashes between the Comanches and other Indian tribes and white settlers, rendering the tales in representational fine lines with detailed cross-hatching. The book begins with the unusual account of Cynthia Ann Parker, a white child kidnapped by the Comanches, and the accomplished life of her son, Quanah. Parker's story is as fascinating as it is tragic: after a Comanche raid on her family's fort, she is kidnapped and raised as one of the Comanches' own. Renamed Naduah, Parker adapts all aspects of Comanche life and matures into a respectful, strong-willed daughter. She marries a young chief and gives birth to Quanah. Yet Parker's former life constantly shadows over her. She's eventually recaptured (against her will) by white settler relatives and forced to readjust to their society. Quanah's story takes place after the death of his parents. A young Comanche with few assets or experience, he uses his deft wit and diligence to quickly build himself into a successful horse farmer, a heroic warrior and a diplomatic representative of Native American interests to white society. His integration into American society marks the end of the Comanches' era. Jackson's heartrending and inspiring story is a truly enjoyable and timeless work. (Dec. 2003)