I, Witness
by Norah McClintock
illustrated by Mike Deas
- Short-listed, YALSA Quick Picks
- Commended, Junior Library Guild Selection
In a dark back alley, Boone and Andre witness a violent murder, and agree not to mention it. But the killers have different ideas and come after Boone and his friends, killing two of them. Boone is desperate to save himself but realizes to do so he will need to face the violent act in his past that continues to haunt him.
close this panel"A suspenseful, murder mystery-themed graphic novel...McClintock has crafted an intriguing story, one which is not only entertaining to read, but is also surprisingly complex and comprehensive despite occupying less than one hundred and fifty pages...Deas' illustrations are wonderful additions to the story, working well to support and, at key points, enhance the text laid out by McClintock. The black and white artwork, while simple and sketchy at times, suits the gritty tone perfectly while splashes of red are also incorporated throughout in an attempt to highlight and bring attention and importance to scenes of violence...Readers who are admirers of crime and detective stories will surely find I, Witness to be an enjoyable and satisfying read...Highly Recommended."
"Black-and-white illustrations, with splashes of gruesome red, accompany this fast-paced tale of rivalry, justice, and loyalty. The simplistic drawings add to the sense of urgency, and even reluctant readers will be drawn into the fray...Readers may never have had to deal with witnessing a murder, yet David's confusion, indecision, and fear will be familiar and relatable. This would make a good addition to collections for teens for its themes and elements of emotional struggle."
"McClintock...shows her customary concerns with character development, fast and abrupt action, and the effectiveness of showing different viewpoints. Deas' dramatic black-and-white artwork is splashed with a bright blood red spilt across those panels where violence occurs. The story demonstrates the dark power of eyewitnesses who, either through a code of silence of fear of reprisal, don't share information when murder is committed...An effective thriller that raises questions about the complicity of silence on violence."
"Deas' black and white illustrations, with occasional Gorey-esque crimson blood splatters, are appropriately edgy and atmospheric, and ample swaths of pitch-black negative space add to the moodiness...The arty creepiness of the overall look should be enough to entice bystanders to ask, 'Whatcha readin'?"
"Boone's reasons for not coming forward are complex and interesting...[and] the mystery Boone solves surrounding the unrelated murder will engage...The use of red as an accent in moments of violence is effective."
"Deas's illustrations...employ expressive, loose jags of line that effectively channel teenage emotion...McClintock's first foray into graphica is a teenage mystery with enough twists and turns to interest readers."
"[The] plot is action-packed, and the illustrations are a wonderful juxtaposition to the text. McClintock does not shy away from the brutal realities of teenage life...Readers will definitely be able to relate to Boone's struggles with his conscience...This novel confronts teenage readers with the important question, 'Who will finally break the circle of intimidation?'"
