Drowned City by Don Brown is an easy to read yet hard hitting non-fiction graphic novel about the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. The novel focuses specifically on the harsh conditions endured by the people, and the strength those residents showed in staying resilient against the storm. The graphic novel begins with Katrina forming and follows the story of New Orleans as it is hit by the hurricane and flooded, damaged, and deserted by the people who were supposed to be there to help. The art style contributes to this desolation and despair, shown through watercolor backgrounds and almost lazily illustrated people who try so desperately not to be erased by this incredible storm. The text leaves nothing to the imagination, telling the survivors' story in clear, concise sentences that match the despair felt throughout the novel.
This novel would work in a multitude of classrooms if it were being taught to students, from a social studies classroom focusing on the history of the United States, a science classroom discussing natural disasters, and an English classroom examining graphic novels and nonfiction accounts. It is a good study in emotional and emergency responses, and can bring some higher stakes into the classroom than what might be done with a fiction novel.
I enjoyed reading through this short graphic novel and I definitely felt a heartbreaking connection to the people, constantly asking myself why we didn't do more to assist the residents of New Orleans and what we can learn from our past to improve the future.