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A review by betweentheshelves
The Greatest Thing by Sarah Winifred Searle
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I know this graphic novel just came out a few weeks ago, but why aren't more people talking about it? There is so much to love about it, from the way difficult issues are handled (eating disorders, depression, panic attacks, sexuality, therapy) to the emotions to the characters. They're all handled with grace and it 100% has found a home on the YA graphic novel shelf.
Following the story of Winifred, just starting her sophomore year of high school and ready to reinvent herself since her best friends have moved to different schools. In her art class, she forms a relationship with fellow outcasts April and Oscar. As they get closer, Winifred starts to come out of her shell. But there's one thing she's been holding back, and it just might cost her her friendship.
Let's start with the art. I am absolutely in love with the color palette, as I think it just suits the story really well. The way that Searle uses color and line to depict Winifred's emotions, especially as it relates to her anxiety. There are some gorgeous panels thorughout this book, and I'm happy to say that the writing matches the art.
The inclusion of the zine that Winifred, Oscar, and April added to the complextiy of the emotions in the story, and reflects their friendship throughout. Searle also handles each of their different stories with care, especially when it comes to mental health. It feels realistic and authentic, which isn't always easy to do in graphic novel format.
All in all, there is so much to love about this graphic novel. You'll fall in love with the characters, and also with the writing and the art.
Following the story of Winifred, just starting her sophomore year of high school and ready to reinvent herself since her best friends have moved to different schools. In her art class, she forms a relationship with fellow outcasts April and Oscar. As they get closer, Winifred starts to come out of her shell. But there's one thing she's been holding back, and it just might cost her her friendship.
Let's start with the art. I am absolutely in love with the color palette, as I think it just suits the story really well. The way that Searle uses color and line to depict Winifred's emotions, especially as it relates to her anxiety. There are some gorgeous panels thorughout this book, and I'm happy to say that the writing matches the art.
The inclusion of the zine that Winifred, Oscar, and April added to the complextiy of the emotions in the story, and reflects their friendship throughout. Searle also handles each of their different stories with care, especially when it comes to mental health. It feels realistic and authentic, which isn't always easy to do in graphic novel format.
All in all, there is so much to love about this graphic novel. You'll fall in love with the characters, and also with the writing and the art.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror, Body shaming, and Eating disorder
Moderate: Fatphobia, Panic attacks/disorders, and Mental illness
Minor: Biphobia, Homophobia, and Self harm