Waves Published by First Second on May 2019
Genres: Graphic Novel
Pages: 96
Format: eBook
Source: Publisher
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A young woman and her wife's attempts to have a child unfold in this poetic tale that ebbs and flows like the sea.
After years of difficulty trying to have children, a young couple finally announces their pregnancy, only to have the most joyous day of their lives replaced with one of unexpected heartbreak. Their relationship is put to the test as they forge ahead, working together to rebuild themselves amidst the churning tumult of devastating loss, and ultimately facing the soul-crushing reality that they may never conceive a child of their own.
Based on author Ingrid Chabbert’s own experience, coupled with soft, sometimes dreamlike illustrations by Carole Maurel, Waves is a deeply moving story that poignantly captures a woman’s exploration of her pain in order to rediscover hope.
A young woman and her wife's attempts to have a child unfold in this poetic tale that ebbs and flows like the sea.
After years of difficulty trying to have children, a young couple finally announces their pregnancy, only to have the most joyous day of their lives replaced with one of unexpected heartbreak. Their relationship is put to the test as they forge ahead, working together to rebuild themselves amidst the churning tumult of devastating loss, and ultimately facing the soul-crushing reality that they may never conceive a child of their own.
Based on author Ingrid Chabbert’s own experience, coupled with soft, sometimes dreamlike illustrations by Carole Maurel, Waves is a deeply moving story that poignantly captures a woman’s exploration of her pain in order to rediscover hope.
An intimate and exquisite portrayal of one couples’ hope, loss and recovery.
I wasn’t sure what exactly Waves was about when I offered to review it. Sure, I knew the basic premise. What really drew me in was the artwork and the promise of a deeply moving story. Both the story and illustrations did not disappoint.
The couple’s love and support for one another is so clearly personal and loving. I loved seeing how they were there for each other, and their own ways with grief. The story unfolds starting with hope and excitement, mirroring what many soon to be new parents consider. Sadly, things take a turn and the couple finds themselves coping with a deep loss, trying to find their way back to happier times and a sense of normalcy.
The writer’s tone and words are perfect, filling the reader with all of the complicated emotions that one may feel during this difficult time. It was so easy to see a piece of myself in this suffering woman.
The beautiful illustrations match the text perfectly. Sometimes the text takes center stage while others the art flows quietly over the page. I love the empty spaces, the uses of color and how the world slowly begins to fill again after their tragedy. The dreaming quality of the art really heightens the heavy subject matter.
Overall, Waves is a beautiful and delicate book that filled my heart.
Kimberly majored in Songwriting and currently works full time in the music industry. When she's not listening to music, knitting or writing, you can find her outside reading her favorite genres: Young Adult, Adult Fiction, Mystery, and Romance.
