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American Terrorist #1-7
American Terrorist
"Inspiring, disturbing, and triumphant." -- FOREWORD
Embedded with an eco-terrorist group hellbent on explosive direct action, investigative journalist Owen Graham is enmeshed in a dangerous culture on the political fringe. Ordinary citizens, frustrated by inequality and oppression and a bureaucracy’s resistance to change, are starting to go off the grid and disrupt the status quo. But the fringe is poised to go mainstream, and Owen’s days as a passive observer are running short.
While a series of escalating misunderstandings land an idealistic public school teacher in the middle of a hostage situation and the sights of an overeager federal agent who has been trailing Owen for months, he intervenes in a desperate split-second decision. Owen’s old life is gone forever. Now he’s on the run with a trio of fellow crusaders, all fighting for a better world but now labeled as terrorists by the government. Disparate people on all sides, each convinced they’re right – and doing the right thing -- are now spinning towards each other in an inexorable spiral of violence.
AMERICAN TERRORIST is a high-speed chase across the country in search of radical solutions to injustice, inspiring a movement that may be snuffed out before it starts.
Embedded with an eco-terrorist group hellbent on explosive direct action, investigative journalist Owen Graham is enmeshed in a dangerous culture on the political fringe. Ordinary citizens, frustrated by inequality and oppression and a bureaucracy’s resistance to change, are starting to go off the grid and disrupt the status quo. But the fringe is poised to go mainstream, and Owen’s days as a passive observer are running short.
While a series of escalating misunderstandings land an idealistic public school teacher in the middle of a hostage situation and the sights of an overeager federal agent who has been trailing Owen for months, he intervenes in a desperate split-second decision. Owen’s old life is gone forever. Now he’s on the run with a trio of fellow crusaders, all fighting for a better world but now labeled as terrorists by the government. Disparate people on all sides, each convinced they’re right – and doing the right thing -- are now spinning towards each other in an inexorable spiral of violence.
AMERICAN TERRORIST is a high-speed chase across the country in search of radical solutions to injustice, inspiring a movement that may be snuffed out before it starts.
224 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2011
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 16, 2020
The book makes some solid points and I agree with quite a bit of it but it all feels very contrived and one-sided. This was written during the George W. Bush administration and a lot of this was the authors getting out their frustrations with a repressive government. (Who knew it'd get even worse a decade later, doing their best to subvert Democracy and venture into full-on fascism?) There are a lot of logic leaps and asinine decisions made by the "bad" guys to tell the story the Chin-Tanners want to tell.
Received a review copy from A Wave Blue World and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Received a review copy from A Wave Blue World and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
September 3, 2020
An interesting failure, I think we can call this one. It starts with disjointed stories, and the idea that any thing could make you an enemy of the state – environmental ruin, grass-roots activists with a handy recipe for explosive fresh from the Internet, being an over-medicated school teacher, or more. Once it strings all its diverse characters together, though, it seems to go up a step too far too quickly, into the not-quite plausible. That's nothing to the final act, which is far too OTT for what wants to be a political piece with strong characters. What it is, however, is a book seemingly dating from 2011 that (bar some dodgy, unconvincing hardware and uses of technology) could have been written last week. Never before has a book demanded so strongly that the us-versus-them way our society is going should be dialled back. Never before has a book with that moral actually contained the exact opposite in its very DNA, however, for on the whole this is a tale of renegades against the system, and it's expecting us to cheer every rage against every machine. So yes, it's trying to have its cake and eat it, which is a problem. But the hawkish sensibilities of the investigators seeking these home-grown terrorists definitely make real characters of them for all that.
July 5, 2014
The name doesn't seem appropriate for a book I finished on the 4th of July, but it is actually in keeping with the American spirit. The story follows four individuals who through fairly contrived coincidences end up becoming wanted domestic terrorists. So they band together and take it to heart, becoming visible symbols and stirring up civil disobedience in their attempts to bring attention to the corruption of the status quo. It's a doomed story, there's no question of a happy ending, but the book isn't offering a fairy tale, it's a cautionary tale. And it's a call to action - the final pages lay it all out, with a second story coming from the point of view of the officials on the hunt for these terrorists that serves to highlight the very claims the 'terrorists' are making. It's a frustrating book because you don't want to believe it's true, and it's a frightening book because it doesn't take much to make you think it could be. And it's thought provoking - are we as far gone as the book paints the world? What can be done to move away from its conclusion? And who determines what makes a person a terrorist? This book doesn't answer the questions, but it expects you to consider them for yourself.
June 14, 2023
An earnest effort to look into the efforts of the fringe groups of environmental activists who turn into what can be labelled as domestic terrorists.
Two of the main characters, who are friends, are a journalist and a lawyer. Their sudden journey from respectable careers into being outlaws was startling — brief and unbelievable.
Once the main characters go on the run, the story deteriorates into a fantasy of what domestic terrorism might look like, live streamed. Transitions were so abrupt that twice I checked to see if pages had been torn out of my book.
Much of the media analysis and critique is interesting and relevant; however this book is ultimately weighed down by a preposterous plot.
Two of the main characters, who are friends, are a journalist and a lawyer. Their sudden journey from respectable careers into being outlaws was startling — brief and unbelievable.
Once the main characters go on the run, the story deteriorates into a fantasy of what domestic terrorism might look like, live streamed. Transitions were so abrupt that twice I checked to see if pages had been torn out of my book.
Much of the media analysis and critique is interesting and relevant; however this book is ultimately weighed down by a preposterous plot.
February 21, 2021
Through an unlikely series of events, an investigative reporter, a school teacher, a scientist, and a lawyer find themselves labeled domestic terrorists and on the run from a variety government agencies.
Frankly, after a year of protests and an insurrection at the capital, this book really clunks.
It started out fine, if slow, but kept getting more stupid and unbelievable with every page until I'm just shaking my head and chanting "Nope, nope, nopity-nope."
Frankly, after a year of protests and an insurrection at the capital, this book really clunks.
It started out fine, if slow, but kept getting more stupid and unbelievable with every page until I'm just shaking my head and chanting "Nope, nope, nopity-nope."
December 19, 2020
'American Terrorist' by Tyler Chin-Tanner and Wendy Chin-Tanner with art by Andy MacDonald is a graphic novel written about 10 years ago that still feels pretty current.
The story follows four Americans from different walks of life who end up together. One is a reporter, one is a teacher, one is a civil rights lawyer and one is an EPA scientist. Through an accident, they find themselves on the run with the US government chasing them. Along the way, they meet other disaffected folks that help them with shelter and escapes.
I get where this graphic novel is going, but it does feel a bit overly one-sided and blunt. It does still pretty current though, so maybe it was on to something. The art was just ok. Nothing really stood out.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from A Wave Blue World, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
The story follows four Americans from different walks of life who end up together. One is a reporter, one is a teacher, one is a civil rights lawyer and one is an EPA scientist. Through an accident, they find themselves on the run with the US government chasing them. Along the way, they meet other disaffected folks that help them with shelter and escapes.
I get where this graphic novel is going, but it does feel a bit overly one-sided and blunt. It does still pretty current though, so maybe it was on to something. The art was just ok. Nothing really stood out.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from A Wave Blue World, Diamond Book Distributors, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
November 3, 2020
As a social justice activist, this touched my heart. Lots going on in this graphic novel - which is why it held my interest so well - while still being super easy to follow and very engaging. I found myself reading frantically wanting to know what would happen next. The ending was not what I expected but exactly how it should have ended.
The illustrations were complementary to the story and fit perfectly!
Still so timely ten years after its original release which makes me sad but the fact that people are writing work like this and reading it gives me hope.
Thank you to Tyler Chin-Tanner, Wendy Chin-Tanner, Andy McDonald, Matt Wilson, Diamond Book Distributors, and #NetGallery for an ARC of #American Terrorist in return for an honest review. Review will be posted on NetGallery, Goodreads (goodreads.com/radicalrachelreads), Facebook, and online retailers.
The illustrations were complementary to the story and fit perfectly!
Still so timely ten years after its original release which makes me sad but the fact that people are writing work like this and reading it gives me hope.
Thank you to Tyler Chin-Tanner, Wendy Chin-Tanner, Andy McDonald, Matt Wilson, Diamond Book Distributors, and #NetGallery for an ARC of #American Terrorist in return for an honest review. Review will be posted on NetGallery, Goodreads (goodreads.com/radicalrachelreads), Facebook, and online retailers.
October 24, 2020
I was provided with an advance copy of this graphic novel through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a re-release of the 2010 graphic novel American Terrorist.
The plot of this book touches on several themes that were especially relevant between 9/11 and the 2008 financial crisis that are in some instances even more relevant today. Themes such as the effect of the modern surveillance state on individual liberty, the point at which activism may be considered terrorism, and the overeagerness of some of those charged with protecting society from terrorism all play major parts in the story.
The plot touching on so many themes makes this a difficult story to summarize. When circumstances band four characters together to flee from the law and from accusations that they are terrorists, they accept help from groups of individuals who may legitimately be considered as terrorists.
I gave American Terrorist four stars. It raised a lot of interesting questions about the world we live in, but I thought some of the characters' choices were irrational and over-the-top.
This is a re-release of the 2010 graphic novel American Terrorist.
The plot of this book touches on several themes that were especially relevant between 9/11 and the 2008 financial crisis that are in some instances even more relevant today. Themes such as the effect of the modern surveillance state on individual liberty, the point at which activism may be considered terrorism, and the overeagerness of some of those charged with protecting society from terrorism all play major parts in the story.
The plot touching on so many themes makes this a difficult story to summarize. When circumstances band four characters together to flee from the law and from accusations that they are terrorists, they accept help from groups of individuals who may legitimately be considered as terrorists.
I gave American Terrorist four stars. It raised a lot of interesting questions about the world we live in, but I thought some of the characters' choices were irrational and over-the-top.
September 13, 2020
Terrorist or true American? This graphic novel explores good vs evil and how lines are blurred when a false narrative is the accepted norm. Whose reality is the truth? What is the difference between acts of accidental heroes and the real enemy? It may be a little contrived, but it shows how situations and 'reality' can cause action to snowball in to a whole new realm. The illustrations worked well, but the jumping around of the story POV was hard to get used to at first.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2021
Too many logic jump failures mar a political tale that could have been written yesterday. I just couldn't get past all the "WTF?" moments. Several confusing fight scenes and the occasional dropped plot lines didn't help.
July 21, 2025
All the aesthetics of an 'underdog uprising' without any hint of a political statement. "Billionaires are dividing us. Neither party cares about us!"
Absolute nothing-burger of a story. Makes perfect sense why it was featured in the New York Times.
Absolute nothing-burger of a story. Makes perfect sense why it was featured in the New York Times.
January 5, 2024
"American Terrorist" ventures into the intense world of eco-terrorism, challenging readers with a narrative that explores complex themes of activism, justice, and the consequences of standing up against the status quo. While the book's subject matter is undeniably relevant and thought-provoking, my personal reading experience left me with a sense of unease, making it difficult to wholeheartedly endorse.
The synopsis introduces us to Owen Graham, an investigative journalist embedded with an eco-terrorist group. The story takes a bold stance, delving into the lives of individuals frustrated by inequality and driven to disrupt the established order. The events unfold rapidly, propelled by escalating misunderstandings that lead to drastic consequences. The addition of an idealistic teacher caught in a hostage situation injects urgency into the narrative.
The illustrations, handled by Andy MacDonald, are gritty and atmospheric, effectively capturing the tension and chaos inherent in the storyline. The visual narrative complements the themes of the graphic novel, offering a visceral experience that enhances the reader's engagement.
Despite the gripping premise and relevant subject matter, my hesitation with "American Terrorist" lies in a vague sense of something feeling off during my read. It could be attributed to the pacing, which occasionally felt rushed, making it challenging to fully connect with the characters. Additionally, the graphic novel navigates a delicate balance between portraying activists as heroes or antiheroes, leaving me torn between sympathizing with their cause and grappling with the methods employed.
The exploration of individuals from different walks of life, each convinced they are doing the right thing, adds layers to the narrative, sparking critical reflection on the nature of activism and its consequences. However, the book's presentation of these characters often felt one-dimensional, hindering a deeper emotional connection.
"American Terrorist" presents a bold narrative on a pertinent and contemporary issue, prompting readers to consider the complexities of activism and its potential consequences.
While my personal experience left me with reservations, I acknowledge that the graphic novel might resonate more strongly with others seeking a thought-provoking exploration of justice, resistance, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. 🌐📚✨
The synopsis introduces us to Owen Graham, an investigative journalist embedded with an eco-terrorist group. The story takes a bold stance, delving into the lives of individuals frustrated by inequality and driven to disrupt the established order. The events unfold rapidly, propelled by escalating misunderstandings that lead to drastic consequences. The addition of an idealistic teacher caught in a hostage situation injects urgency into the narrative.
The illustrations, handled by Andy MacDonald, are gritty and atmospheric, effectively capturing the tension and chaos inherent in the storyline. The visual narrative complements the themes of the graphic novel, offering a visceral experience that enhances the reader's engagement.
Despite the gripping premise and relevant subject matter, my hesitation with "American Terrorist" lies in a vague sense of something feeling off during my read. It could be attributed to the pacing, which occasionally felt rushed, making it challenging to fully connect with the characters. Additionally, the graphic novel navigates a delicate balance between portraying activists as heroes or antiheroes, leaving me torn between sympathizing with their cause and grappling with the methods employed.
The exploration of individuals from different walks of life, each convinced they are doing the right thing, adds layers to the narrative, sparking critical reflection on the nature of activism and its consequences. However, the book's presentation of these characters often felt one-dimensional, hindering a deeper emotional connection.
"American Terrorist" presents a bold narrative on a pertinent and contemporary issue, prompting readers to consider the complexities of activism and its potential consequences.
While my personal experience left me with reservations, I acknowledge that the graphic novel might resonate more strongly with others seeking a thought-provoking exploration of justice, resistance, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. 🌐📚✨
January 27, 2021
What makes a terrorist?
What makes a revolutionary?
And who gets to decide?
This quick read packs a lot to think about - shadowy government agencies, surveillance, environmentalism and eco-terrorism, freedom of the press, the education system, and on and on. I think the plot accelerates too fast, so I'd actually advocate for a longer story. There are a couple points where you need to suspend belief, like the "bombing" incident at the insurance company that kicks off the whole thing, but overall I thought this was a pretty tight exploration of a lot of things that are still issues in our country today.
Gives you hope and despair :)
What makes a revolutionary?
And who gets to decide?
This quick read packs a lot to think about - shadowy government agencies, surveillance, environmentalism and eco-terrorism, freedom of the press, the education system, and on and on. I think the plot accelerates too fast, so I'd actually advocate for a longer story. There are a couple points where you need to suspend belief, like the "bombing" incident at the insurance company that kicks off the whole thing, but overall I thought this was a pretty tight exploration of a lot of things that are still issues in our country today.
Gives you hope and despair :)
March 12, 2022
I love anything with ecoterrorists and this is OLD, I guess in the heyday of such activities, a more hopeful time when we believed the oil and gas industry was challenge-able I guess (2010) ! I didn't get the romance plot-line, seemed a little random or unnecessary and there were some wobbly plot points, mostly the plot was just a vehicle for ideas. Although from George W. era, feels relevant today.
January 10, 2021
The series of "escalating misunderstandings" that occur in order to forward the plot of this story feels completely contrived and not at all realistic. This, combined with one-dimensional, mypoic law enforcement antagonists, and absurd relationship dynamics among the protagonists, resulted in a really rather disappointing read.
June 24, 2017
This story is too, too real. Look out your window, see your TV or internet stream. Listen to podcasts. We're all n this together, right, center or left. Don't change your channel. This is not The Twilight Zone. This is real. Take back reality and make this a country for all.
December 19, 2020
This was dope! A flashy piece on the birth and life of a direct action movement and the lengths the government would go to stop them. The cast was likeable, the plot believeable, and the message forever relevant. I got chills reading this! Definitely pick this one up.
November 14, 2019
Great concept, many topics that i love seeing represented. However, the story line felt rocky and I would have likes to see more development with everything but especially the characters.
April 6, 2021
Thought-provoking and beautifully done! Very relevant topic, too. My only complaint is the story didn't go deep enough but it did well for being a shorter graphic novel
May 20, 2023
Loved the story and artwork. Great way to showcase some of the issues that we as a country face. And how we as the American people need to unite against the ruling classes.
Read
July 13, 2023Not sure what i thought of it. I did read it. It is militant and reactionary in thought and tone. But that is the whole point, I guess.
July 17, 2024
Interesting concept, but the narrative seems forced and full of holes.
December 30, 2020
Chapters 1 and 2 were fantastic but the rest was a bit of a let down.
November 20, 2012
The premise is excellent, not new, but real, and crude. No happy endings, no mystery, but reality. In one side radicalism, naive people. In other, the system. Good book, not as scandalous as the name could sound.
September 2, 2015
Read the first part of this on ComiXology. I assume it'll get better as it goes along because I found it to be quite dull and not a whole lot was going on other than going back and forth between characters. It was decent and worth checking out.
January 1, 2012
The idea is very interesting and the plot really attracted me to try and get the other issues. I would recommend this to any comic lover.
August 27, 2015
Muy mala, los personajes son bastante repelentes y la historia es totalmente increíble
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews