ABOUT THE BOOK
In their comics debut, Theo Parish masterfully weaves an intimate and defiantly hopeful memoir about the journey one nonbinary person takes to find a home within themself. Combining traditional comics with organic journal-like interludes, Theo takes us through their experiences with the hundred arbitrary and unspoken gender binary rules of high school, from harrowing haircuts and finally the right haircut to the intersection of gender identity and sexuality—and through tiny everyday moments that all led up to Theo finding the term “nonbinary,” which finally struck a chord. “Have you ever had one of those moments when all of a sudden things become clear…like someone just turned on a light?” A whole spectrum of people will be drawn to Theo’s storytelling, from trans or questioning teens and adults, to folks who devoured Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe or The Fire Never Goes Out by ND Stevenson, to any person looking to dive a little deeper into the way gender can shape identity. Throughout the book, Theo’s crystal-clear voice reminds the reader that it’s okay not to know, it’s okay to change your mind, and it’s okay to take your time finding your way home. “We are all just trying to find a place to call our own. We are all deserving of comfort and safety, a place to call home.”
REVIEW
In this graphic novel style memoir, Theo tells of their journey towards feeling comfortable within themself. After hiding within the gender binary system during high school, they find themself enjoying the freedom of life beyond high school. Not only do they find friends they trust and feel like they can be themself with, but they also become aware of alternate gender identities. Conversations with friends and family, research on the internet, and joining groups that appeal to them all help Theo on the journey to self identification. For a cis white woman, this book was a window to an unknown and misunderstood world. The limited color palette (white, pink, and purple) allowed the focus to remain on Theo. The sometimes symbolic art provided a glimpse into the mind of the author. The symbolism of the house shape around the human figure conveyed simply, but powerfully Theo's journey to finding home. Recommended for those who can relate to Theo and those who wish for greater understanding of them and their journey.
Comments
Post a Comment