This is a collection of graphic novels which are based around various different events that have happened in American history.
This series was created with children in mind. Hence, they are perfect for children between the ages of 8 to 12 years old.
You will find that these books are quite lighthearted to make learning about America a more enjoyable experience.
Overall, there are 11 books in the Hazardous Tales series to enjoy.
Although, you may be wondering whether there is a particular order that these books need to be read in.
I have created this simple guide to show you in what order to read the 11 Hazardous Tales in.
About Hazardous Tales
Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales illustrated books provide humorous and engaging information about significant events in American history.
While American spy Nathan Hale is the focus of the first book in the series, other significant historical individuals can also be included.
For instance, the fourth book in the series discusses Araminta Ross, an escaped slave who risked her freedom and life to aid numerous other oppressed individuals.
You don’t have to read these books in order, which gives you the freedom to choose whichever book you like to start with. However, to ensure you read them all, we would always suggest chronological order.
The Revolutionary War hero and namesake of the author, Nathan Hale, was America’s first spy. He is famed for saying, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country,” just before being executed by the British.
In this book, Nathan Hale’s life is examined. He served as an officer with the American rebels during the Revolutionary War and was ultimately hung for espionage
Pros
Engaging story.
Cons
Themes like execution are discussed, which may not be appropriate for really young children.
Here is the tale of two of the world’s first ironclad ships, the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia (also known as the Merrimack), and their remarkable role in the American Civil War.
Through their ironclad combat, you will gain a broader understanding of the conflict.
A number of families departed Illinois in the spring of 1846 and started the long journey to California. The pioneers were forced by bad luck to endure a lengthy, chilly winter in the highlands while slowly starving.
This is one of the most terrible and infamous tales of the American frontier because of what they did to survive, and the extent others went to in an attempt to save them
Pros
Nathan Hales gives you warning signs when gruesome or sad things are about to happen.
Cons
Certain elements can be a bit gruesome for some children.
Discover the most well-known World War I engagements.
The largest nations in the world, as well as some of the tiniest, were preparing for a major conflict in 1914. Each nation engaged in battle for various reasons.
However, most of them came to the same conclusion: they sent their young men to battle in a war that would ultimately claim more than 9 million lives.
It left behind a world that was devastated, enraged, and scarred. Even now, its gruesome lessons are still being examined.
Pros
Detailed and well-thought-out.
Cons
Some readers wished it covered more of the air war.
Delaware was the birthplace of Araminta Ross, a slave.
She managed to flee north to safety after years of arduous labor and the looming threat of being purchased and taken away from her family.
She altered her name to Harriet Tubman once she escaped.
Harriet would be remembered as a spy and a hero for assisting several American slaves in escaping and escaping to freedom by using the Underground Railroad.
This account of Tubman’s life brings to life the tale of an extraordinary black woman who is remembered as a distinctive American hero.
Pros
Slavery is well handled without overwhelming young readers.
Native Americans, the Mexican government, and colonists from other parts of the United States fought over the same land.
This would eventually become the Lone Star state in the early 1800s.
The story of Texas’ struggle for independence is told by Nathan Hale.
The renowned Jim Bowie’s exploits are included, along with those of Davy Crockett, Stephen Austin, and other soldiers and settlers who lived on Texas’ wild frontier.
This book begins with a brief discussion of the circumstances that led to World War II before detailing the bombing of Pearl Harbor from both the American and Japanese points of view.
The American counterattack, coordinated by stunt pilot Jimmy Doolittle, is then revealed.
One of the most daring and terrifying operations of World War II, the Doolittle Raid, as it came to be called, is remembered in military history.
These crews and pilots, a part of it rose to fame in America.
Pros
Engaging story and illustrations.
Cons
Certain language used is not appreciated by young readers, such as hell or damn.
The luxuries of French nobility did not satisfy Gilbert du Motier, who at a young age rose to the rank of Marquis de Lafayette.
He was ready to demonstrate his bravery in battle as a major general by the age of 19.
He took part in the American Revolutionary War alongside George Washington and Alexander Hamilton.
Lafayette would go down in history on both sides of the Atlantic and serve as a testament to the enduring ties of friendship between the two – France and America.
John Wesley Powell traveled around the majority of America. Then, Powell enlisted in the Union army when the Civil War broke out and lost his right arm.
In 1869, he set out to float across the Grand Canyon as part of the Colorado River Exploring Expedition.
The explorers were in danger numerous times over the course of three months.
They lost their boats and supplies and nearly drowned. Only six of the ten explorers that entered made it out.
Pros
Mix of action and history
Cons
Some readers felt that religion was inaccurately portrayed.
Everything revolves around Haiti, an island nation that Napoleon had intended to use as a center for trade with North America.
Napoleon was rising through the ranks of the French army and government.
Then in 1791, under the leadership of Dutty Boukman, François Mackandal, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, and Toussaint L’Ouverture led the biggest uprising of enslaved people in history.
In 1950, a war began when the North Korean army and tanks crossed the Soviet border. Marguerite Higgins witnessed the Communist takeover of Seoul firsthand.
Her first-hand description of the invasion made headlines everywhere. She put her life in peril, for the purpose of having a compelling story.
Pros
Very engaging story.
Cons
Not as funny as previous books in the series.
Final Thoughts
Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales are a great option when your children are looking for an engaging and different way to learn about American history.
These graphic novels touch upon important moments in history but add humor to keep things lighthearted.
There is no particular order to read these books in, but chronologically is easier, so you don’t miss any out.
I hope this article has been helpful. Now you ought to know in which order to read Nathan Hale’s 11 Hazardous Tales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Have To Read Hazardous Tales In Order?
There is no set order to read these books. It’s up to you which one you start off with.
Are Nathan Hale’s Tales Accurate?
All of Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales are completely historically accurate.
Who Are Hazardous Tales Aimed At?
These books can be read by anyone, at any age, who wishes to learn more about American history. Although, they are most suited for children between the ages of 8 to 12 years old.
Noah Burton works as a Librarian full time, and is a blogger in his spare time. His goal is to write compelling recommendations for all of the most popular books he can find, from science fiction to romance.
With a passion for books, a drive to find new reads to get stuck into, and a love for sharing book recommendations with others, Noah can help you find the next novel for your bucket list.
