For many, the word “bodyguard” conjures the image of a stern-looking man in dark sunglasses, gun at the ready, escorting politicians and celebrities. Our impression of the world they inhabit, reinforced by television and films, is one full of intrigue and excitement. As it turns out, reality doesn’t disappoint.

In fact, there is so much to the history of the profession that author Ed Butts and illustrator Scott Plumbe could have put together a much longer book. Still, the duo has done an impressive job in this slim volume, collecting varied and fascinating stories ranging from Ancient Egypt to the  modern-day secret service.

The book is broadly chronological, but made more interesting by thematic chapters such as “The Halls of Power,” which offers a glimpse into the lofty worlds of leaders past and present, and “On Assignment,” which looks into what it takes to be a bodyguard today. Tales from the murky world of gangsters and drug dealers make for some vicarious thrills in “Bad Guys and Gunmen” and “When Bodyguards Fail or Betray.” Here you’ll find the stories of Billy the Kid, a bodyguard before turning outlaw, and Frankie Rio, the tough guy who guarded Al Capone.

Accounts of betrayal feature Abraham Lincoln’s absent handler that fateful day at the theatre and Indira Ghandi’s death at the hands of her protectors. In between, there are stories of female bodyguards, such as Gaddafi’s Amazonians, and several anecdotes about everything from the Swiss Guard to the tricks and skills of the trade.

Bodyguards is a well-designed, snappy package. Plumbe’s graphic style melds with Butts’ engaging storytelling, and both deliver a balance between fact and entertainment. As a bonus, the book includes several one-page, illustrated stories that readers of the target age – and older – will especially appreciate.