Available June 4, 2024

“A haunting representation of a true American tragedy.”—Kirkus Reviews

AN OUTBREAK OF WITCHCRAFT

A gripping tale of paranoia at its worst, this bewitching narrative nonfiction graphic novel visually imagines the haunting details behind the Salem witch trials.

From 1692 to 1693, fear reigned in the small village of Salem, Massachusetts. The night Abigail Williams and Betty Paris first accused their servant of witchcraft was only the beginning. 

Several more accusations would follow suit, sparking a widespread panic that consumed Salem in one of the longest cases of witch trials in America, where more than twenty innocent lives were lost, and mistrust ran amok.

The community was in ruins, from the afflicted who fanned the flames of superstition to the judges who used their power unjustly and the accused who were falsely charged and hanged in consequence. In the absence of due process and with hysteria abounding, no one in Salem was safe.

Journey into how it all began in this arresting, true-to-life look at how lies became facts, friends turned to foes, and loved ones turned to enemies.

“Through scenes and conversations based on careful research, this graphic novel informs readers about lesser-known aspects of the infamous trials, which have become embedded in popular lore and imagination….Duffy’s illustrations are often stunning and moving, showing haunting eyes peering through darkness, as well as depicting Gallows Hill, with five innocent bodies hanging from a tree as day turns to dusk and then becomes the dead of night. Noyes discusses the roles of racism, patriarchy, and economic turmoil, all of which set the stage for the witch hunt. Overall, this work provides fascinating insights for those already interested in this episode in history as well as those who know little about it.”—Kirkus Reviews

“The notorious Salem Witch ­Trials are brought to life with gripping visuals in this narrative nonfiction graphic novel. ­Beginning with the events that lead to accusations of witchcraft, the story broadens to explore the social conditions that fueled the trials. Taking details from primary source documents, including court transcripts, Noyes crafts a suspenseful and detailed account of witchcraft frenzy. Using a dark and moody palette, the full-color illustrations bolster the sense of unease and paranoia that sweeps the population.”—School Library Journal