I Witnessed (I Witnessed)

by Jeramey Kraatz

[Quirky Cat]

Summary:

Charlie is fourteen years old, and he just saw something truly unspeakable. It’s the morning of August 4, 1982—the morning that tragedy struck Lizzie Borden’s house. Unfortunately, he can’t get anyone to believe what he saw.

Not until the bodies are found, at any rate. Charlie will have to do everything in his power to ensure his voice is heard so that justice can be found for Andrew and Abby Borden. Who would have thought Charlie would end up in such a situation?

Review:

Before I dive into my review, I just want to point out that I Witnessed is historical fiction. It is based on real events (the Lizzie Borden trial and murders), but Charlie’s story is largely imagined and exaggerated. I’m not sure I would have read the graphic novel otherwise, you know?

Honestly, I was curious to see how I Witnessed would handle such heavy content for young readers. As a reminder, this book is a middle-grade book. And I’m pleased to say they did a great job. They don’t hide away from the truth but don’t relish the gory details.

What I enjoyed was this mystery from Charlie’s perspective. Even though he’s a witness, he’s still not certain of Lizzie’s guilt. Did she do it? Was she framed? The book does a great job of leaving it ambiguous, letting readers decide based on how they’re feeling about the mystery.

Highlights:
Middle-Grade Novel
Historical Fiction
Witnesses & Truth

Trigger Warnings:
Graphic Details

Thanks to HarperAlley and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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