J. Edgar Hoover: A Graphic Biography By Rick Geary Hill and Wang, 2008 Nonfiction/Biography/Graphic Novel

Although it's written in a graphic novel format, this biography of America's #1 G-man is filled with fascinating information about J. Edgar Hoover's life, both personal and professional. Starting with his early days as a serious, industrious child growing up in Washington D.C. in a family filled with government employees, the book traces his rise through the ranks of the investigative branches of the government. From earliest days of employment, Hoover was a workhorse - disciplined, well-organized and politically savvy. His work paid off; in 1924, at the age of 29 he was named acting, and soon the official, director of the Bureau of Investigation. During the 1930s, he made the Bureau famous by bringing down notorious criminals such as John Dillinger and Ma Barker, usually taking credit for the busts even when he wasn't even there. His career evolved with the Cold War, and he began to keep files on anyone who was maybe a Communist or that he thought was a threat to "The American Way." The book wraps up with his waning popularity in Washington, and finally, his death, but along the way we get a look at the man behind the badge -- a lifelong bachelor who spent all of his free time (including vacations) with a male companion, loved Cairn terriers, and hired agents based on their looks and height. Why You Should Read This Book: Even if you're not a fan of graphic novels, Rick Geary brings this historic figure to life with his line drawings and straight-to-the-point writing. Entertaining and informative, Geary's book covers the facts and foibles of one of the U.S.'s most high-profile crime fighter.