my first ever graphic novel and i surprisingly really enjoyed it. bechdel is so talented and witty and oh my god she knows how to tell a story. the characterisation of her father was so rich. i wasn’t necessarily in love with the literary references (perhaps because of my lack of familiarity with them) and i feel that the writing was overly articulate to prove a point at times when simplicity and conciseness would’ve worked just as well if not better, but this was overall really fantastic and i couldn’t imagine it not in the format of a graphic novel. my respect for the medium had definitely increased, i’m in awe of its unique power for storytelling.

for someone who goes to university to talk about literature and creative writing all day, this book has me at a loss for words.

emma cline is undoubtedly one of the best writers of her generation. her writing is so haunting and mesmerising, i couldn’t put this book down. not a single word was wasted in this, she scratches a little itch in my brain and satisfies all of my musings so perfectly.

evie was the perfect protagonist; so nuanced and developed and complex. i’m trying to put my thoughts about this into words but it was honestly so beautiful and the way i feel about it transcends any meaningful articulation.