The Death of Stalin

July 24, 2017
This French graphic novel served as the basis for the upcoming film of the same name from Scottish director Armando Ianucci, and it’s easy to see why the political shenanigans within appealed to the creator of Veep. Upon suffering a debilitating stroke that renders him paralyzed, Stalin lays frozen in his bed as ambitious politicos do everything in their power to thwart his recovery and insert themselves into the top spots in the Soviet government. Oozing with sleazy, appalling chicanery, the narrative by writer Nury (I Am Legion) and artist Robin (Death to the Tsar) captures a turbulent and disturbing period with solid visual storytelling. Robin depicts the sordid goings-on with elegant caricatures that give a clear view of the complete and utter awfulness of the cast, adding enough historical flair to nail down the era. It’s proof of the theory that tragedy plus time equals (very dark) comedy.

Starred review from September 1, 2017

Having murdered millions of his countrymen without cause, Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin (1878-1953) suffered his own end entangled in the fear he inspired. Inert from a stroke, Stalin remained unexamined for hours since his staff thought him drunk and dangerous. When deemed ill, his highest political associates put off assisting him, and his doctors proceeded ineptly since he had arrested the top physicians on ungrounded suspicions. But his actual death was only the beginning of a spy vs. spy-type power struggle among the Communist Party's Central Committee over who would now lead the nation. This darkly funny, satirical version draws on real events, originally reported only partially and with contradictions. Nury's (coauthor with Robin, Death to the Tsar) script finds excellent realization in Robin's strongly etched characterizations, crafted in sepia/grey splashed with blood-red. VERDICT Juicy and engrossing, this story speaks of a style in political machinations going back centuries and inspiring both revulsion and twisted admiration. Teens and adults following the current political scene will appreciate the background about our most powerful national frenemy. Note the forthcoming film from Armando Iannucci.--MC

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2018

Gr 10 Up-The cinematic quality of this graphic novel is evident from its first page, which portrays a cast of secretive, scheming politicians; a dying tyrant; and messy family politics. All the while, the fate of communism hangs in the balance. The visuals depict long, darkened hallways and conversations observed from far above, regimented order and chaos coming in equal measure. Shadowy artwork with the slightest sparks of Soviet red adds to the spy film feel. But for all the intrigue, the story is simple. Joseph Stalin has a debilitating stroke: his henchmen scramble to deal with it, conceal the circumstances of his death, silence his family, and keep their tenuous power over the Russian people in place without their figurehead. Some sex, violence, and strong language make this an appropriate read for more mature teenage readers. VERDICT Overall, there's more mood than content in this slim, slick volume, which makes for an intriguing if incomplete read.-Emilia Packard, Austin, TX

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.