Sensational

In the graphic novel “Paul Bunyan: The Invention of an American Legend,” authors Van Sciver and Myles break down the Paul Bunyan story by focusing on its Indigenous origins and sensational beginnings. The story takes place in 1914 Minnesota, where a lumber advertising executive tells the well-known tale of Paul Bunyan during a winter day. However, the story doesn’t get the usual applause; instead, it faces criticism for the environmental impact it reveals. Essays by Lee Francis and Deondre Smiles in the book delve into how the myth affected Indigenous communities and tied into economic and environmental shifts during America’s westward expansion. This book offers a new viewpoint on the famous legend, shedding light on its intricate history and effects.
–The New York Times Review