Armaveni: A Graphic Novel of the Armenian Genocide

Gr 7 Up–Blending contemporary, historical, and fantasy storytelling, Takvorian’s autobiographical debut chronicles her teenage discovery of her Armenian heritage and family history. Throughout childhood, Nadine longed to know where her family, particularly her mother, came from and why she left her homeland. However, whenever she asked about her past, her mother avoided the question. All Takvorian can determine is that her family was swept up in the Armenian genocide. But a rare opportunity gives Takvorian and her brother the chance to go to Istanbul during the summer of 2001 to learn about their heritage and reconnect with family members who did not come to America. Family and community lie at the heart of this story as Takvorian learns her personal history and develops an understanding of her peers. Her personal growth is mirrored by her gradual increased knowledge of Armenian history, particularly the genocide and its impact on the survivors. Takvorian’s tempering continues once she returns home and discovers that a person she admires denies that the Armenian genocide occurred. Then 9/11 happens, with all its concurrent horrors and bigotry. Takvorian and her mother find the courage to face these challenges together, bringing the idea of family full-circle. The artistic choice of lavender ink is inspired, evoking its traditional symbolism of mourning while remaining a strong, powerful color in its own right. Some of the historical content depicted, such as the French school burning with women and children inside, could be difficult for sensitive readers. Most subjects are of Armenian descent, with a few secondary characters portrayed as white. Perfect for readers who enjoyed George Takei’s They Called Us Enemy and Kiku Hughes’s Displacement.