Vaughan, Brian K. Pride of Baghdad.

VAUGHAN, Brian K. Pride of Baghdad. Illus. by Niko Henrichon. DC Comics/Vertigo. 136p. illus. c2006. 1-4012-0314-0. $19.99. SA *

In the spring of 2003, as a bomb raid ripped through Baghdad, the Baghdad Zoo is hit and a pride of four lions--two females, Sara and Noor; a male, Zill; and a cub, All--is freed. With no cage and no keepers, the lions fend for themselves in the war-ravaged city. Having been kept in the zoo, the lions had always dreamed of freedom; once outside, they see the true horror in the world.

This truly exceptional graphic novel questions the war in the Middle East, and what freedom really is. The dynamics that Vaughan creates between the two females of the pride are outstanding, and truly reflect how a family could act in this scenario.

Henrichon's art is simply amazing; each page transports the reader to each scene, making for a strong visceral connection between the reader and the story. The anthropomorphized lions are exquisitely developed and evocative characters who will haunt the reader. This is a book to be read on many levels, and it should appeal to a wide range of readers. Designated by the publisher as a book for older readers, there are depictions of violent scenes, though set in the context of war and the fight for survival. This is one of the most important books of 2006; every library should own a copy. Jennifer Feigelman, YA Svcs. Libn., Goshen PL, Goshen, NY

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools were there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT'S usefulness in public libraries.

*--The asterisk highlights exceptional books.