Graphic Novels
Or books with pictures that it's okay for grown-ups to read...
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Watchmen - Alan Moore/ Dave Gibbons |
The Arrival - Shaun Tan |
Ethel & Ernest - Raymond Briggs |
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Arguably the daddy of the recent graphic novel landscape. Alan Moore took the notion of the costumed crime fighter and the superhero and turned it all on its head. And that is just the beginning. So much better than the film! |
The sepia-toned, silent telling of an immigrant's journey. Simple, stark and very moving. |
This is the story of the Snowman author Briggs's parents, equally as beautiful as his other work, but decidely more moving. The illustrations are tender, and observed with familiar warmth. A great way to move into graphic novels. |
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Persepolis - Marjane Satrapi |
Sandman - Neil Gaiman |
Maus - Art Spiegelman |
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Iranian emigrant Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical story will make you laugh and cry, and you’ll learn a lot – without meaning to - about history, growing up, families and staying true to your identity. We defy anyone to read this book and not become a Marjane Satrapi fan for life! |
It is impossible to describe the Sandman series in one line. You simply can’t do it justice. In very basic terms, this is the story of Morpheus, the personification of Dream. It is as rich and complex and disturbing and beautiful as you know dreams can be. Enjoy and then reread it again. Immediately! |
Art Spiegelman’s incredibly moving re-telling of the Holocaust story through cats, mice and pigs triggers only the most human of emotions. Spiegelman’s recording of his father’s anecdotal evidence is engaging and enlightening and brings to life the historical truth of Nazi-occupied Poland, while also giving a touching and honest account of one man’s complex relationship with his ageing father. |
Maus is the only one there
Maus is the only one there that would make my list.
From Satrape's work, although Persepolis is good, Chicken with Plums is much better I think. Really beautiful book.
Some others I would toss in:
Will Eisner's Contract with God trilogy.
Michel Rabagliati - Paul Moves Out, Paul Goes Fishing, or Paul has a Summer Job.