Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Buffalo Soldiers and the American West
Illustrator: Tod Smith
Nonfiction Graphic Novel Series
For ages 7 to 9
Capstone Press, 2006 ISBN: 0736849661
During the American Civil War, many African Americans served in the Union Army, and when the war was over these soldiers had a hard time finding decent jobs. Many of them decided to join the new cavalry and infantry divisions that the army was forming to fight against the Indians out West. All over the frontier, Indians and settlers were clashing, and the American Government needed to find a way to keep law and order.
Although many people were skeptical about the wisdom of creating these African American divisions, the soldiers soon proved that they were brave and good at getting the job done. Even their enemies, the Indians, respected the African American soldiers, giving them the name "Buffalo Soldiers" because they were “ferocious like the buffalo.”
This excellent Graphic Library title brings history to life showing children how hard African American soldiers had to work to get the respect and the recognition that they deserved. Despite their exemplary service, the Buffalo soldiers were often treated very badly by white soldiers and officers.
At the back of the book, the author provides his readers with further information about the Buffalo Soldiers.
