Over the last few decades, graphic literature has emerged as a powerful vehicle for storytelling. Its potential has expanded beyond the adventurous fun of superhero comics to encompass a variety of narrative possibilities: fun to serious, fantastical to grounded. Illustrations lend additional dimension to the stories they tell, conveying information and emotion to the reader where mere words fail. Every element of a comic illustration, from facial expressions and color palette to shapes and panel layout, tells the story.
Our selections for this week’s Three to Read depict a wide range of experiences spanning decades, borders, and abilities. They arrive at a time when compassion and understanding for each other are perhaps more important than ever. Whether you’re a comic enthusiast or a graphic novice, you just might find your new favorite read.
HOT PICK
Final Cut by Charles Burns
SYNOPSIS:
Young artist and aspiring filmmaker Brian treks out to a cabin in the woods to shoot the sci-fi horror flick of his dreams: a tribute to his favorite movie, Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Joining him are his friend and partner in crime, Jimmy; Jimmy’s friend, Tina; and Laurie, Brian’s artistic muse and leading lady. As Brian tries to connect with Laurie, he writes her into his fantasies, seeking an escape from the turmoil in his head. But Laurie is reckoning with desires of her own — ones that don’t necessarily align with Brian’s.
WHY:
Burns received acclaim for his 2005 graphic novel, Black Hole, which explores the trials and alienation of adolescence through a sci-fi/horror lens. Final Cut echoes those themes of teenage isolation, transporting readers to the 1970s Pacific Northwest where Burns spent his own youth. With bold illustrations reminiscent of vintage B-movies and classic pop art, Burns infuses much of his own experiences and vulnerability into Brian and Laurie’s stories. The result is a unique coming-of-age tale, one that captures a similar sense of dread to Burns’s previous work but with a more hopeful undertone.
COFFEE SHOP READ
Just Another Story: A Graphic Migration Account by Ernesto Saade
SYNOPSIS:
When his overworked mother, Elena, decides to leave their home country of El Salvador for new opportunities in the United States, 19-year-old Carlos goes along to look after her. Led by a group of untrustworthy coyotes, Carlos and Elena embark on the perilous journey familiar to many Central American migrants. Ten years later, Carlos shares his story with his visiting cousin, Ernesto, a cartoonist who decides that even if it is “just another story,” it’s one the world needs to hear.
WHY:
With undocumented immigrants across the United States facing deportation, it’s important to recognize that each person and family has a story that brought them here. As Saade explains, these stories often get lost in a sea of overwhelming statistics and political fearmongering. Just Another Story arrives at a critical political moment, reminding us that beyond the media narratives are many more smaller, personal stories demanding to be told.
DARK HORSE
Brittle Joints by Maria Sweeney
SYNOPSIS:
In this graphic memoir, Maria Sweeney documents her life with Bruck syndrome, a rare progressive disorder characterized by weak bones. Through a series of non-linear vignettes, Sweeney takes the reader through her day-to-day life as she navigates her diagnosis, manages chronic pain, and relishes in the small victories. Lush with illustrations inspired by nature, this debut is a moving self-portrait from a talented up-and-coming creator.
WHY:
Brittle Joints provides an important window into an often inaccessible world that many able-bodied people tend to take for granted. Sweeney’s memoir highlights the everyday challenges many disabled people face, from ableist microaggressions and broken elevators to medication access issues and the frustrating nature of the U.S. healthcare system. But it’s also a testament to disabled joy, the power of community, and the importance of making space for one another. Sweeney reminds us that one of the greatest acts of kindness we can give each other is to show up and listen.
That’s all for this week’s Three to Read! We’ll be back next week with more awesome new reads for your TBR.
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