March by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin is lauded for its powerful and immersive portrayal of the Civil Rights Movement. Reviewers praise its compelling storytelling and evocative illustrations. However, some critics note its pacing issues and occasionally simplistic dialogue. Overall, it is considered a poignant educational resource with minor shortcomings.

Readers who would relish March by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin typically have a keen interest in civil rights history, social justice, and graphic memoirs. Comparable to Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi and Maus by Art Spiegelman, this engaging blend of personal narrative and historical context appeals to those who appreciate transformative stories of resilience and activism.

March: Book One by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell recounts John Lewis's life from his early years on his sharecropper father's farm to his college days, focusing on his growing involvement in the civil rights movement. Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr., Lewis joined the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and led peaceful protests, including sit-ins at segregated lunch counters, highlighting the fight for Black rights in America.

Inspirational / Informative / Emotional / Challenging / Heartwarming

- March is a graphic memoir trilogy that provides a vivid, first-person account of the American Civil Rights Movement through the eyes of Congressman John Lewis.
- Co-author Andrew Aydin, a former staff member for Congressman Lewis, was inspired to write March after learning about the impact of the comic book Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story on the Civil Rights Movement.
- The trilogy includes artwork by award-winning artist Nate Powell, who uses a black-and-white style to effectively convey the emotional and historical depth of the stories.

**John Lewis**  
A United States representative and civil rights activist, whose experiences in the movement are central to the narrative. He helped organize events like the March on Washington and led the SNCC, emphasizing nonviolent protest.

**Andrew Aydin**  
A comics writer and co-author who collaborated with John Lewis to create a graphic novel based on Lewis’s civil rights experiences. He was inspired to work on the project after learning about Lewis's connection to influential civil rights era comics.

**Nate Powell**  
A graphic novelist and illustrator of the series, contributing his artistic vision to portray the civil rights movement. His background in self-publishing and award-winning career complements the graphic novel's storytelling style.

**Barack Obama**  
The 44th President of the United States, whose 2009 inauguration sets part of the narrative’s backdrop. He honored John Lewis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his pivotal role in the civil rights movement.

**Martin Luther King Jr.**  
A key figure in the civil rights movement, known for advocating nonviolent protest and social justice. His influence and teachings inspire other activists featured in the narrative.

**Emmett Till**  
A young Black boy whose tragic murder in 1955 is referenced for its pivotal role in the civil rights movement. His story symbolizes the need for change and inspires activists like Rosa Parks.

**Rosa Parks**  
A civil rights activist whose refusal to relinquish her bus seat became a defining moment in the movement. Her actions spurred the Montgomery bus boycott and made a significant impact on public transportation segregation.

**James Lawson**  
An American civil rights activist and educator who trained others in nonviolent resistance. His guidance was instrumental for many, including Lewis, in shaping the nonviolent tactics used during the movement.

**Diane Nash**  
A significant civil rights figure who co-founded the SNCC and participated in protests like the lunch counter sit-ins. She is noted for her leadership and commitment to nonviolent civil disobedience throughout the narrative.

John Lewis

 Andrew Aydin

Adult

Graphic Novel/Book

March

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore March and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

March: Book One

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read March?

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Book Details