Mothballs is a powerful graphic novel about secret family histories, conflicts between generations, and forming one’s own identity despite societal expectations. Nineteen-year-old Rocio’s grandmother Vilma dies, and Rocio inherits her house. Rocio’s relationship with her grandmother was strained; Rocio’s interest in photography, as well as other things, angered Vilma. As Rocio considers her own future, … Continue reading Review: Mothballs, by Sole Otero (Fantagraphics)
Review: Anna, by Mia Oberländer, translated by Nika Knight (Fantagraphics)
Anna has a problem; she’s too tall for her small (and small-minded) German town. She receives little sympathy or support from her mother (also named Anna), who despairs at her daughter’s abnormality. Anna tries to navigate life towering above everyone else, tackling motherhood, and embracing her differences. Anna is a wonderfully charming and funny graphic … Continue reading Review: Anna, by Mia Oberländer, translated by Nika Knight (Fantagraphics)
Review: Tender, by Beth Hetland (Fantagraphics)
Oh man, this was a really tough read. Beth Hetland’s debut graphic novel is about the negative effects of social media, and how trying to “keep up” with societal expectations can prove to be our undoing. Carolann wants the kind of perfect life that she sees on Instagram. With no immediate romantic prospects, she engineers … Continue reading Review: Tender, by Beth Hetland (Fantagraphics)
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