• Craig Thompson's 'Ginseng Roots' is a successful return to graphic nonfiction, blending personal memoir with broader societal themes related to ginseng farming.
• The book explores diverse topics including agriculture, immigration, health, and the comics industry, woven together through Thompson's personal journey and research.
• Thompson's artwork is praised for its detail and stylistic variety, enhancing the book's narrative depth and emotional impact.

'Ginseng Roots' by Craig Thompson is a graphic novel that combines memoir, travelogue, and journalism to explore the world of ginseng farming, Thompson's family history, and various societal issues. The book is a contemplation of Craig Thompson’s childhood working in ginseng farming and its effects on his present life, an extensive exploration of ginseng’s interactions with society across time and space, and an excuse to shine a light on the lived experience of many in his community, both local and international. It also serves as a companion piece to Thompson's earlier work, Blankets. The book delves into agriculture, small farmers, rural society, the influences of religion, global flows of commerce, the personal histories of refugees tied to the ginseng industry, the impact of war, migrant farm workers, and the influences of eastern philosophy, medicine, and mythology.

• What: 'Ginseng Roots' is a graphic novel by Craig Thompson that explores his upbringing in the Wisconsin ginseng farming community and its connection to broader societal and global themes.
• Who: Craig Thompson (creator), Phil Thompson (brother, with contributions), Pantheon (publisher).
• When: Publication Date: April 2025; Review Date: May 2025.
• Where: Primarily set in Wisconsin, USA, but also explores global connections through ginseng trade and cultural influences.

'Ginseng Roots' stands out for its intricate weaving of personal narrative with broader societal issues. Thompson's exploration of ginseng farming serves as a lens through which he examines themes of family, agriculture, immigration, health, and the challenges within the comics industry. The book expands on themes from his previous work, Blankets, while also introducing new elements, such as the exploration of a previously unmentioned sister. The meta-narrative about the bookmaking process itself adds another layer of depth, revealing the artist's doubts and explorations. Ultimately, 'Ginseng Roots' encourages readers to consider the global impact of local participation and the interconnectedness of individual experiences.

'Ginseng Roots' is a highly recommended graphic novel that showcases Craig Thompson's talent for blending personal storytelling with insightful commentary on broader societal issues. The book's exploration of ginseng farming provides a unique perspective on themes of family, agriculture, immigration, and the challenges within the comics industry. With its detailed artwork and thought-provoking narrative, 'Ginseng Roots' is a valuable addition to the graphic nonfiction genre.