I've been a fan of Lucy Knisley's graphic memoirs since she first published French Milk, and I've enjoyed following her life in food and travel and family.The topic of her latest memoir, Something New, should be evident from the cover. This time, Knisley writes about her wedding, from the day she met John to their dating, breakup, and reconnection and then the months leading up to their big day.
In her usual candidness, Knisley shares the joys, the uncertainties, the frustrations, and the craziness of planning a wedding that suited both her and John's taste and met the expectations of their parents. Some episodes will make you nod in agreement (buying the dress), and others will have you choosing sides (live music or playlist?). In all cases, however, you'll connect to Knisley's honesty and the universal heaven/hell of the modern-day bride and groom's journey to the marriage ceremony.
The
art is classic Knisley. I had no trouble getting a sense of both the
action and the emotions in her full-color drawings, and I found her
lettering to be clear and easy to read. This memoir is supplemented by
photographs, and I had fun comparing Knisley's artwork to them. I've shared one of my favorite pages (click the scan to see it
full size), but keep in mind the page comes from an eGalley, so it's
possible changes were made before publication.Seeing as I've never met Knisley, I was a little surprised that my eyes welled up when I reached the pages depicting the wedding and reception. It's a testament to her truth in writing and drawing.
Put Lucy Knisley's Something New on your reading list. It's a winner and recommended to anyone who has ever attended a wedding, whether as guest or as bride or groom. (Note: The scan used in the context of a review--all rights remain with the copyright holder: Lucy Knisley and/or First Second.)
Published by First Second, May 3, 2016
ISBN-13: 9781626722491
Source: Review (see review policy)
Copyright © cbl for Beth Fish Reads, all rights reserved (see review policy)
Oh, I must look for this. I love her books!
ReplyDeleteI am a huge Knisley fan. I must read this soon! Thanks for the great review!
ReplyDeleteI'm so jealous that you got an early copy! I'm sooooo looking forward to this one! I think it's also a testament to her writing/drawing power that I was excited to discover she and John reconnected!
ReplyDeleteI was meh about French Milk but I really loved Relish and have been really curious about this one. I'm so glad to see this review! It sounds like a wonderful read and how sweet that she made you feel so involved that you teared up at the end. I have a feeling this book will not have me regretting my choice of skipping a wedding and getting married at the courthouse!
ReplyDeleteI love Knisley's work and requested this book but didn't get it. Hopefully, our library will get it. I'm sure I'll love it!
ReplyDeletemy rule of thumb when it comes to matrimony - the wedding is for the family, the ceremony is for the couple ... so ... get married without a lot of stress and then let your family plan a party that you can attend as a guest of honor ...
ReplyDeletei am not much of a graphic book person ... so ...
Oh this looks good. I remember you talking about French Milk (which I still haven't read). I need to put her on my library wish list so I can remember to get her books.
ReplyDeleteThis looks great! And as I'm getting married in exactly two months from today...appropriate. :)
ReplyDeleteSounds good! I see her everywhere and had French Milk out from the library at one point. Need to actually read her!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear she has a new book out. I'm a fan too.
ReplyDeleteI've got a lot of weddings upcoming, I should pick this one up.
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