Hans Vogel Is Dead Volume 1

by Sierra Barnes

There are some acts that can never truly be forgiven.

It’s the height of WWII, and the Nazi forces are driving through Europe. Decorated German fighter pilot Hans Vogel follows orders and doesn’t ask questions. It’s worked out well for him…so far. But when his plane is shot down in the middle of an air raid over London, he is dead before he hits the ground. And that’s only the beginning of his problems.

Sierra Barnes weaves a rich anti-fascist fairytale about the importance of recognizing past wrongs, even (especially) when it’s easier not to.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Comics, Historical Fiction

272 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Jennifer Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first volume of Hans Vogel is Dead has such gorgeous illustrations, such smart and careful storytelling, it's a masterpiece in telling a story through pictures. Barnes' gorgeous illustrations and powerful storytelling make for a dark experience, but it's wonderful. Billed as an 'anti-fascist fairy tale about the power of narratives, the question of individual responsibility in a totalitarian regime, and the struggle to become a better person,' the story is rightfully uncomfortable and dark, but with such moments of sweetness and humor that it never becomes too much.

I sped through this, savoring so many of the rich illustrations along the way, and I can't wait for the next volume.

[Amber Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was truly gorgeous and emotional

[Jack Phoenix · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dense with symbolism, HANS VOGEL IS DEAD may have a nearly indecipherable plot but it remains visually enjoyable.

[Andréa]

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through Edelweiss.

[SJ L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: WWI and WWII are the backdrop for this story of a killed Nazi pilot.

Did you know that horror movies became popular after WWI in Germany when about 4 million wounded soldiers returned to their homeland?

I did not, until I read this well-told, beautifully illustrated story. It's a clever graphic novel. I am tempted to use the word "humanizing" on a protagonist who is a dead Nazi (my grandfather fought against them in WWII) but so be it. The setting is the afterlife. It will make you think and learn a bunch of facts about history.

If you don't mind the topic it's a cool book.

[Maggie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really cool artwork and story concept. It's a little hard to follow in some spots, but I generally liked where it was going. Looking forward to Volume 2 one day!

[Amelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful art, incorporation of various mythical elements, intriguing story. Looking forward to volume 2!

[Andrew · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wanted to like this but it’s genuinely impossible to follow at times