When I started my research the novel that stood out the most to me was "Black Hole" by Charles Burns. I knew it was the book I wanted to be my first graphic novel. I went to a great independent bookstore called Pulp Fiction and found it quickly. When I went to purchase it, the staff said "Ahh....Black Hole. This was a good time for graphic novels". It didn't disappoint. The story is dark, a little scary, and deeply human. And I loved the artwork. All black and white with so many fine lines and details. Gorgeous. Glad I trusted my instincts.
One afternoon my boyfriend and I spent some time in Chapters. I was disappointed with their graphic novel section, but found "Arkham Asylum" by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean. I like Batman stories, especially the darker side of Batman's character, and when I heard about this story I knew I'd like to get my hands on it. I read it in one sitting. The artwork is absolutely stunning and often looks like mixed media at times. Beautiful, beautiful stuff.
I borrowed "Watchmen" by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons from a friend of mine named Elias. Whenever you begin to touch upon the world of graphic novels, everyone mentions "Watchmen". To many it is the best graphic novel ever written. It took me a few days to finish because there are a lot of stories going on at once, and I needed to focus a bit more than the other two novels I had read previously. It all paid off though. I sometimes have a hard time with 'super heroes' and the like, but this one was so human you kind of forget they are masked vigilantes. I'd like to read it again because I think some of the political aspects went over my head in some parts though. Very good read.
Sigh..."Maus" by Art Spiegelman...how wonderful you are. My friend Anita leant this one to me and I'm so glad she did. It was also on my list. As you can probably tell from the cover, this is a true story about the Holocaust. Mice represent the Jewish people, and cats represent the Nazi Party. So far, this was the only graphic novel to make me cry...a couple times. I'm very much looking forward to reading part two.
This was such a great find! It was also on my list, but when I was at Chapters I found it in a random place, on sale for only $5.99! It was meant to be. I finished it in just over 24 hours. So compelling. And his artwork is perfect. His use of subtle shadows and smudging was sublime. Just one frame could make my heart clench. Please, please, go read "Stitches" by David Small. None of my friends had heard of it, so I think it is lesser known than some other graphic novels. But it is incredible.
Yes, so there you have it. My first five graphic novels...and I already can't wait to read more! I'm going to have to start checking them out of the public library or else I'll end up broke at the rate I'm going. If you're sitting there thinking about how you've always wondered about the world of graphic novels...please do yourself a favour and get out there and read some. They are beautiful pieces of art. I couldn't stop thinking about how long it would take to make one of these books. So much work goes into it. Amazing! And ladies...don't let anyone tell you graphic novels and comics are just for the boys!
With stampedes of affection,
Korrina
