Every year at this time, as much of the world turns its attention to momentous events in the small West Bank town of Bethlehem two millennia ago, I ritually read Joe Sacco’s Palestine. Sacco’s comic book serial was among the first projects I was asked to promote when I was hired as Fantagraphics marketing and promotions director. At the time, even referring to the occupied territories as Palestine was considered by many to be provocative.
While the semantics of the discussion may have changed, the situation in Palestine has remained remarkably unchanged since Sacco visited the region and the first issue appeared two decades ago. In re-reading the Palestine collection each holiday season, I’m reminded how the promise of Peace on Earth remains elusive. And I renew my hope that a lasting peace will finally prevail in that troubled land.