“Drawing is putting a line round an idea.” ~ Henri Matisse
I’ve finished two graphic novels recently which weren’t ones I originally listed for my Graphic Novel challenge but I found these at the library and couldn’t resist them. Know what the cool thing is? I just need to read one more and I complete my challenge – woo,hoo! But, I don’t want to get too carried away so let’s just talk about these for now.
The first one is La Perdida by Jessica Abel (click on title for full review). Immediately I was hooked by the setting, Mexico city, a city I love. The story centers on Carla, a young woman trying to find herself in Mexico.
“I was delirious with Mexico. I was avoiding thinking about the inevitable, the ticket in my backpack that meant the end of the affair, until finally I bit the bullet and looked. I had missed my plane by a week.”
And, so she begins her adventure. I loved this until it neared the end. There are some events that happen which I don’t want to spoil for any reader but that make me question why I even liked Carla as much I did. She disappointed me. Would I read another book by the author? Absolutely. I think she can pull together a good story and I liked her artwork. Perhaps I expected too much out of Carla? I don’t know but I’d be curious to hear if anyone’s read this and what your thoughts are on it.
Next up is Nightmares & Fairy Tales: 1140 Rue Royale by Serena Valentino and art by Crab Scrambly (click on title for full review).
As with any good ghost story this tale starts with a creepy house and is soon filled with ghosts, nightmares and evil. It has plenty of atmosphere although there were a few unanswered questions for me. I see that this is part of a series so I’m not sure if the other books touch upon this house or story line for that matter. I guess I’ll just have to look for another one and find out.
You know, graphic novels may not be the first genre I turn to when I’m thinking of which book next but I’m certainly enjoying them a lot.
You are steadily chipping away at my steadfast disinterest in graphic novels…
Glad to hear you enjoyed these two graphic novels. Both of their premises looks good. I haven’t been reading graphic novels for some time, since I thought my first priority should be to tackle my huge TBR pile, LOL.
I’m really not that familiar with the graphic novel. Maybe I should check them out.
I’ve yet to read a graphic novel, but I bought Maus by Speigelman for the Year of Reading Dangerously challenge. I’ve seen Abel’s name a lot. She must be pretty prolific. The second book you mention appeals to me more — something about a creepy story being illustrated sounds like a lot of fun. Congratulations on almost finishing the Graphic Novels Challenge!
Jordan – Ah, c’mon you know you want to read one 🙂
Melody – I have to say these are great to read when you feel like you aren’t getting anywhere with your other books. Before you know it, you’ve finished one! 🙂
Nicole – There are some fantastic graphic novels out there… I highly recommend Persepolis if you want to give them a try.
Lisa – I’m planning to read Maus for the challenge too! I think Abel does have quite a few novels out. I would like to check her others to see what themes she explores in those.
Oooh, Nightmares & Fairy Tales: 1140 Rue Royale sounds fun. I have not read many graphic novels. I might have to give this one, in particular, a go!
It’s good to try something new. Kudos to you for doing so.
Christine – I’m a bit overwhelmed when it comes to graphic novels as there are so many out there so I probably would read more if I “knew” more about the genre. Nightmares & Fairy Tales actually deals with a very sad and horrible time in US history but it’s interesting how even difficult subjects can be explored via graphic novels. I love it.
Isabel – It’s great isn’t it… Do you like graphic novels? I can’t remember if you’ve told me.
Both of these sound interesting. I’ve only read one issue of Nightmares & Fairy Tales, but I loved it, and I’ve been meaning to read the series in order for a long time. Perhaps for RIP this year…
Nymeth – I’m going to have to remember the Nightmares & Fairy Tales series for the next RIP Challenge! I’m curious how many are in the series. Also I believe not all the artwork is done by the same artist. I wonder how that happened. Interesting.
I’m intrigued by your comments on La Perdida so I must investigate further!
These both sound good, especially the second one. You’re really reading lots of graphic novels this year. I’ve only managed one, but I’d love to squeeze in a couple more before the year’s out.
You’re doing well with your graphic novel reads. I think Jessica Abel is the wife of the author of the graphic novel I just read.
You know I was thinking of ordering French Milk that you read a while back but found out it hasn’t been published yet! Guess I’ll have to wait a bit.
Both of these sound really good, Iliana. I enjoy reading graphic novels too. Like you, they might not be my first pick for something to read, but I’ve enjoyed all those that I have read.
Your library has graphic novels? You are living in heaven, lady!!!
BTW, cool that you have a “Keep Austin Weird” mug. Is it a favorite? 🙂
I’ve read only one graphic novel. I am not in the mood for them right now. But when I am, I know the store to buy them: Beth’s Books in New Orleans