Introducing Life of Che, a remarkable addition to the prestigious Alberto Breccia Library, published by Dark Horse Books. This graphic biography, initially released in January 1969, delves into the life of the iconic revolutionary figure Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara. What makes this book particularly significant is its historical context; it was published in Argentina only a year after Che’s untimely death, reaching an audience beyond the traditional comic book readers.

Originally part of a graphic biography series, Life of Che faced a turbulent history. In the 1970s, the military government in Argentina raided the publisher, effectively destroying the means to reprint this important work. As a result, it became a lost comic, until a Spanish publisher managed to restore it in 1987. However, it remained untranslated into English—until now.

The narrative of Life of Che begins in Bolivia in 1967, where we witness Che’s final days. From there, the story flashes back through various pivotal moments in his life. Readers will journey through Che’s childhood, his transformative motorcycle trip with Alberto Granado, his involvement in the armed struggle in Guatemala, and his encounters with Fidel Castro. Each moment is depicted with intense emotion and insight, showcasing Che’s military and political maneuvers, culminating in the haunting portrayal of his death.

This graphic biography features the extraordinary artistry of Alberto Breccia and his son, Enrique Breccia. Enrique brings the Bolivia passages to life with a striking woodcut style, while the flashbacks are illustrated by Alberto in his signature expressionistic black-and-white technique. The artwork is not just a visual accompaniment; it embodies the essence of the struggles faced by Che and his contemporaries, immersing the reader in the historical setting.

The narrative voice of Life of Che is crafted by Héctor Germán Oesterheld, renowned for his work on The Eternaut. Oesterheld skillfully weaves his own voice with Che’s first-person perspective, creating a poignant and immersive reading experience. The storytelling is imbued with a profound sense of immediacy, as both Che and Oesterheld ultimately met their fates at the hands of a military government, a bitter reality supported by the American CIA.

In his insightful afterword, Pablo Turnes eloquently describes Life of Che as ‘the testament of someone consciously marching toward his revolutionary death.’ This encapsulates the spirit of the book, which is not merely a recounting of events but a deep exploration of Che’s motivations, struggles, and the ideological battles he fought throughout his life.

In conclusion, Life of Che stands as both a historical document and a piece of art. It offers readers a nuanced understanding of one of the 20th century’s most polarizing figures. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a comic book lover, or simply curious about Che Guevara, this graphic biography promises to engage and enlighten.