a+Graphic+Memoir

//Tomboy: a Graphic Memoir// by Liz Prince



I'd love for this to represent graphic novels on the final list. I love that it is about a girl pondering her gender identity, but then coming to understand that being a girl doesn't have to be what the world deems girly. I understand why to many the graphics seem underwhelming, but this type of cartooning is what teens who are interested in cartooning do, and as the central character is a budding cartoonist, I think it's very appropro that she used this simplistic style. Also, she is one of the artists on "Adventure Time" which has had some popularity across many ages. - Liz, Merrimack PL

I really enjoyed this graphic novel as I felt it had an important message. However, from a teen perspective it collects dust on the shelf. The monochrome graphics do not draw the eye, and the text is difficult to read in places. While I enjoyed that the timeline kept switching backwards and forwards, the fact that it did so without any clear indicator may be a problem to many teens. The message is strong and relevant, but the presentation appeals to adults rather than young adults. Sally Nelson, Leach Library

I don't care for graphic novels in general, but this book won a spot in my heart. The whole topic of gender identity, bullying, self-discovery, and more are reason enough to pick this book up. It's got humor but also sad, raw reality. It's perfect for mulling around 'where do I fit in?' If it wasn't for the f-bomb usage and the sexuality bits, I'd recommend for tweens and up. So, I'd suggest this for the high school teens for book discussion as there's a lot of discussion-worthy material. I don't know how teens in general will rate this--the one freshman I gave it to said she liked it. ~Kathy Watson, Kimball Library, Atkinson

I thought this book provided a viewpoint that I haven't seen treated in YA literature (though I may have missed something along the way). For that reason, it seems a good choice for the list as it may help teens expand their understanding of gender identity. I agree with Sally, though - although the message is strong and relevant, I don't see teens being too interested in reading it. Still, having it on the list could potentially open up the topic to a wider audience? Kathy's right too, it has lots of great discussion potential. I would recommend the book for the list, hoping it might reach even a few people, and depending on what other titles are being considered. Lisa Houde, Rye Public Library

I am not a graphic novel reader, but I force myself to read a few each year. I chose this one after one of my students encouraged me to read it because she comes in the library every morning to read it over and over again before school. I liked the story, and it has an important message, but I don't think most teens will find the book appealing (the graphics are blah are storyline is convoluted, not linear). The book is on our display for easy access for the student who reads it each day, but although other students have picked it up to look at it, they have not chosen to check it out. -Kelly Budd, Keene High

In the hour that more students are looking at how they define themselves in terms of gender - I think this is a well-done important work. The story is delightful, soft, fun, real. The issues are important: gender identification, bullying, coming of age. I feel this should absolutely be on the list. ~Sharon Flesher, Nashua South