Buddha: An Enlightened Life, by Kieron Moore

Buddha: An Enlightened Life, by  Kieron Moore, is a graphic novel from the very beginning of Buddha's life to the end of his life. Buddha first was a prince, but he was different from others. Even before he was born, the prophecies said that he would not accept to become a king, instead, he will choose a path to be a Buddha and reach Nirvana, helping and inviting others to the religion. His father, as a king, tries to keep him away from the society so he wouldn't find out what really is going on, therefore he would never leave the kingdom. Also, Buddha's wife as promised to the king, tries hard to keep him away from exploring the life out of castle. However, when she gives birth to his son, he decides to leave and see what is really out there. As the story goes on, he tries many ways to reach Nirvana by many teachers, but none of them were successful. Until, he decided to find his path himself and be his own teacher. After trying so hard and teaching himself, finally he finds the way to Nirvana, therefore, he goes back to those who have tried teaching him, but failed, he offers them to be their teacher and guide. Some of them refused it and some didn't. By the time passes, he finds many people following his path, but also he finds enemies too.

The graphic novel is really amazing. Beside of the details of what happened in Buddha's life, the art and the illustration of it give readers a feeling of being in the story. I really liked how the book was arranged and how the story was written.This graphic novel is only 147 pages and it's pretty short. It only takes a day to finish it. I believe this graphic novel would be interesting to those who would like to know more about Buddha's personal life from the very beginning in a short period of time. Also, it is suitable for those who are interested in graphic novels and find them interesting. Moreover, it is more suitable for teens and young adults. I believe that this book is interesting and entertaining.

Reviewed by Orkideh, Grade 12
Downtown Central Library