The Lion of Rora

Written by Christos Gage (Avengers Academy) and Ruth Fletcher Gage and illustrated by Lewis, this graphic novel takes the reader back to the stories of how Joshua Janavel became known as the Lion of Rora. Janavel, a member of the Waldensian Church, was born in 1617 in Rora, Italy. A prosperous farmer-turned-courageous and renowned battle tactician, Janavel led his fellow villagers in defense of their religious freedom against attacks by the Duke of Savoy to rid Italy of Protestantism. Eventually, Janavel's people regained ownership of their villages and land, but he was exiled to Switzerland. In the same vein as Gene Luen Yang's Boxers and Saints, The Lion of Rora presents moments of history depicted with captivating art. The illustrated format provides a unique perspective on historical fiction and nonfiction; here, death is depicted without being gory and excessive, while emotion is easily conveyed across the faces of those involved in Janavel's history.