Sunday, April 24, 2016

Andre the Giant

Brown, B. (2014). Andre the giant: Life and Legend. New York: FirstSecond.

Genre: Biography

Subjects: Nonfiction Graphic Novel - Andre Roussimoff 1946-1993, wrestling

Audience: ages 16 & up

Andre Roussimoff was born in France in 1946.  He suffered from acromegaly, a rare syndrome where his body made too much growth hormone.  As a child, Andre was very large and ridiculed at school.  This gentle giant went on to became an actor and professional wrestler called Andre the Giant.  This biography follows his career from the beginning, through his parts in the movie The Princess Bride, and to his death in 1993. Despite his fame, Andre had a difficult life.  He was over 7 feet 4 inches tall and weighed over 500 pounds, was in constant pain, didn't feel accepted, was an alcoholic, and was involved in multiple conflicts.  The story is based on interviews with fellow wrestlers and movie co-stars. The simplistic illustrations in this graphic novel keep the story flowing and interesting. Due to the language and content, it is best for older teens.

Teaching Resources:
Author's Website
Interview with Author
Book Trailer

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