The adventures of lesser-known participants in history are recounted in these four volumes. Jewish girls Zhanna and Frina escape death and use their musical talents to survive in World War II Europe. ­Enslaved Stephen Bishop becomes an expert on ­Mammoth Caves and provides valuable information to tourists. Anna Maria Weems's harrowing escape from slavery is chronicled. Finally, a Confederate soldier, moved by compassion, provided water to suffering Union troops on the battlefield. Presented in graphic format, the titles employ drawings to convey the ­stories, which include narratives and dialogue in the panels. The stories are exciting and anticipation builds with the narrative. One small error in The Angel of Marye's Heights may confuse some--Union generals are dressed in gray uniforms on some panels.

These subjects neatly convey individual experiences in grim times. Those preferring the graphic format will find these books entertaining as informative. ­VERDICT Selectors might feel constrained to limit nonfiction to report topics, but they should consider these volumes to reach those otherwise disinterested in history.