Picture an American storyteller who turned history into thrilling, laugh-out-loud graphic novels—meet Nathan Hale! Not the Revolutionary War spy, but the #1 New York Times bestselling author and illustrator who’s brought the past to life for kids with his Eisner-nominated series, Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales. With a knack for blending humor, heart, and meticulously researched history, Hale has redefined how young readers engage with America’s wildest stories.
Born in 1976 in Utah, Hale’s unique journey from museum mural painter to children’s literature superstar is as captivating as his books. His Hazardous Tales series, narrated by his historical namesake, spins true tales of war, adventure, and heroism into page-turning comics that kids can’t put down.
The Making of Nathan Hale
Growing up in Sundance, Utah, as the son of ski instructors, Hale’s childhood was TV-free but rich with fantasy stories read aloud by his father. This sparked a love for storytelling that followed him to Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, where he studied illustration. His first gig? Painting dinosaur murals for a natural history museum, a job that honed his artistic precision. But it was illustrating Rapunzel’s Revenge in 2008 that launched him into graphic novels, setting the stage for his own series. Inspired by his love of history and comics, Hale created Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, kicking off with One Dead Spy in 2012, a tale about the spy himself.
Nathan Hale’s Unforgettable Stories
Hale’s Hazardous Tales series is a masterclass in making history accessible and fun. Each book tackles a slice of American history—think Revolutionary War spies, Civil War ironclads, or World War I flying aces—through vibrant illustrations and witty dialogue. One Dead Spy follows Nathan Hale, the patriot, weaving his espionage adventures with gallows humor. The Underground Abductor spotlights Harriet Tubman’s bravery, using purple-gray hues to capture the tension of slavery’s horrors. Alamo All-Stars dives into the Texas Revolution, balancing action with historical nuance. Above the Trenches soars with the Lafayette Escadrille, American pilots in World War I, showcasing Hale’s knack for obscure yet gripping tales.
Hale’s style is a blend of Sunday comics charm—think Peanuts meets Garfield—with meticulous research. His “Research Babies” ensure historical accuracy, while characters like the goofy Hangman and cynical Provost add meta-humor that keeps readers hooked. This mix of fact, wit, and dynamic art has made his books Junior Library Guild selections and New York Times bestsellers, with titles like Underground Abductor and Alamo All-Stars hitting number one.
Why Nathan Hale Matters
Hale’s impact on children’s literature is undeniable. His graphic novels have turned reluctant readers into history buffs, especially for kids with dyslexia, who find the visual format easier to digest. By tackling complex events with humor and honesty—no sugarcoating the gruesome bits—Hale makes history relatable and inspiring. His books spark curiosity, propelling kids to explore more nonfiction and comics. Beyond Hazardous Tales, works like One Trick Pony and Apocalypse Taco show his versatility in sci-fi horror, while Let’s Make History, an activity book, empowers kids to create their own comics.
With four Eisner nominations and a Texas Bluebonnet Award Master List nod, Hale’s legacy is one of education through entertainment. He’s not just telling stories—he’s igniting a love for learning in a new generation.
- Born: 1976, Utah
- Key Works: One Dead Spy, The Underground Abductor, Alamo All-Stars, Above the Trenches
- Awards: Four Eisner Award nominations, Junior Library Guild selections
- Fun Fact: Hale is an avid Lego collector!
Snag One Dead Spy and dive into Nathan Hale’s thrilling, history-packed world!