A review by johns_library
The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist by Adrian Tomine

emotional funny lighthearted reflective fast-paced

4.25

Adrian Tomine is a graphic artist and his work The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist covers his start as a burgeoning artist, the struggles of recognition among his peers, and the many hilarious encounters he has with fans over the years.

 

I’m not sure if this was how all the books were published in a similar build, but I loved that the book itself felt like a hardcover notebook, something unique that felt like it was something Tomine himself would have used to sketch. Beyond the physical book itself, I found myself deeply empathizing with Tomine. Especially with scenes from those who he would have thought accepted him turned out bad-mouthing him from behind his back unintentionally (or at times right to his face). I loved his authenticity, the ability to poke fun, as well as his honest letter to his daughters as he considered his last words in the hospital. It definitely made me want to read more of Tomine’s work. Overall, a really interesting graphic memoir, with it’s awkward charm and witty humour.