PRESS RELEASE

Date: September 6, 2024

Publication of the Graphic Novel:

Searching for Peace. Jazzy & Bertha von Suttner

Born in a military family, how does Martha turn into a peace activist? She is a fictional character created by the world-famous writer Bertha von Suttner (1843-1914). Bertha was a real person and is the hero of this story. Or is Jazzy our hero? She is a young photographer who investigates her own ideals in today's The Hague. And what was this Bertha actually doing in the city of Peace and Justice?

The Hague – Foundation “Denkroutes” and the publisher Syndikaat proudly announce the publication of the new graphic novel, “Searching for Peace. Jazzy & Bertha von Suttner.”

This freshly illustrated comic brings to life the inspiring story of Bertha von Suttner, a pioneer in the European peace movement and the first female Nobel Peace Prize laureate (1905). Her novel “Lay Down Your Arms” gained worldwide fame and helped inspire the First Hague Peace Conference in 1899, now 125 years ago.

About the Graphic Novel

“Searching for Peace. Jazzy & Bertha von Suttner” takes readers on a journey through present-day The Hague, exploring the lasting impact Bertha von Suttner has on the City of Peace and Justice. Young photographer Jazzy is tasked with capturing this impact in a photo shoot and, through reading the novel, discovers how she can stay true to her own ideals. The “Historical Context” section at the back of the book provides an accessible introduction to the exciting life and work of Bertha von Suttner and her relevance to the contemporary issues of war and peace.

Inspiring and Educational 

This comic is not only a tribute to Bertha von Suttner and her life’s work but also serves as an engaging and useful educational tool for all ages. It addresses dilemmas we face daily, encouraging readers to explore social themes such as militarism, gender equality, violence in the entertainment industry, friends making uncomfortable choices, dealing with conflicts, and finding common ground. This graphic novel is both entertaining and light-hearted, making it enjoyable at home and enlightening in the classroom. 

Availability

“Searching for Peace. Jazzy & Bertha von Suttner” will be available in three languages: Dutch, German, and English. It can be ordered from September 21 at Syndikaat publishing (www.syndikaat.nl) (80 pages - softcover - €9.95). From that date, it will also be available digitally via www.denkroutes.nl.

About the Authors

The graphic novel is the result of a collaboration between Anne Tabak (story), Willem Ritstier (script), Karin Blaauwijkel, Emma Ringelding (comic artists), and Marc de Lobie (publisher). The Bertha von Suttner Gymnasium in Oberhausen and the International School of The Hague are the first two partner schools in this peace project. The input of their students and teachers is crucial for the approach and content of the graphic novel.

About the Translations

The translations will be published under the German title “Auf der Suche nach Frieden. Jazzy & Bertha von Suttner” and the Dutch “Op zoek naar vrede. Jazzy & Bertha von Suttner.”

End of Press Release