Drafted: An Illustrated Memoir of a Veteran’s Service During the War in Vietnam

“An ode to comic book storytelling while also being a satirical take on the military industrial complex from the soldier’s perspective. Honest and insightful.” (The Beat; A Best Comic of the Year)

From noted cartoonist Rick Parker comes a powerful graphic novel memoir about his time in the United States Army, when he was drafted to serve during the Vietnam War.

Drafted is a powerful graphic novel memoir by Rick Parker, a shy, inexperienced, and overly protected teenager who gets drafted into the United States Army at the height of the Vietnam War.

The looming threat of deployment informs every aspect of his life, from the most ludicrous experiences to the grimmest tests of endurance. Initially determined to do his patriotic duty, Parker gradually comes to the realization that he is just not cut out for a military career and wants nothing more than to serve his time and return to civilian life to pursue his dream of becoming an artist.

In telling this story, he shows how Vietnam was the last war in the United States that instituted the draft; how the draft affected those who served; and how we as Americans think of war and our soldiers once they return from service. Parker also shows how being an artist helped him to survive his time in the army.

Drafted is a compelling and unique graphic novel memoir, perfect for fans of Joe Sacco and Derf Backderf.