7. The Battle of Iwo Jima: Guerilla Warfare in the Pacific

Author Larry Hama offers an accessible introduction to the ups and downs of the battle for Iwo Jima in this graphic novel, part of the "Graphic Battles of the World War II" series. Beginning with background information that details the war -- events leading up to it, the Japanese war machine and the importance of the island itself -- Hama presents information with an objective lens, portraying the Japanese as not just the enemy but as real people. Williams exposes the horrors of the war on both sides in camouflage colors. Included are a glossary, short bibliography and an appendix containing contact information for two relevant museums. The graphic novel format will draw in reluctant readers as well as students who devour books by the dozen. Additionally, the graphic nature allows students to truly visualize events of the war.