Partisans: A Graphic History of Anti-fascist Resistance

by Paul Buhle (Editor), Raymond Tyler (Editor), David Lester

With eleven brand new comics created by legendary and upcoming writers and comics artists, Partisans flips a new page in the popular understanding of anti-Nazi and anti-fascist resistance. Through vivid illustrations and compelling narratives, Partisans brings to life the struggles and triumphs of those who resisted fascism. Within these pages, readers will encounter stories of resistance from the rugged mountains of the Balkans to the urban landscapes of occupied Europe. This comics collection reminds us that the fight against fascism is far from over and that the courage and sacrifices of those who came before us continue to light the way. Partisans is a must-read for anyone interested in history, social justice, and the transformative power of history and art.

Genres: Politics, History, Comics

148 pages, Paperback

First published August 12, 2025

Reviews

[Jule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viel Info auf wenigen Seiten. Ganz verschiedene Partisan*innenkämpfe und verschiedene Zeichen- und Darstellungsstile mehrerer Künstler*innen. Richtig gut.

[Y.S. Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Partisans is a graphic novel crafted by writers and artists. With striking illustrations and gripping storytelling, this collection vividly captures the courage, struggles, and victories of those who fought against oppression over the past 150 years.

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE BOOK
From Josephine Baker to Tito's partisans, each story in the collection immerses readers in the diverse acts of defiance that shaped history. More than just a historical record, Partisans serves as a timely reminder that the fight against fascism remains urgent and that the bravery of past resisters still inspires today.

WHO IS THE BOOK FOR
A must-read for fans of history, social justice, and the powerful intersection of art and activism, this anthology proves that comics can be both a compelling narrative medium and a call to action.

Special thanks to Between The Lines for review copy.

[will · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting stuff. Being an anthology it varied in quality (my personal favourites were the two about Yugoslavia and the one about Greece) but it's overall pretty good. I think comics are an underrated method for communicating history.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent.

[Lewis Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, an excellent volume of graphic essays on the Partisans that fought the Fascists in several European countries. For such a small volume it provides an excellent overview. The authors and artists provide their expertise developing engaging narratives. Each country had its own fascist coalition and the local anti-fascists could readily adapt networks, strategies, and tactics to fight the fascists. In some countries there were several partisan groups and certainly areas they liberated, defended, and controlled. Anyone wishing to learn more about Partisans who fought against the fascists would do well with this volume.