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A review by okayletsread
Ballad for Sophie by Filipe Melo
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Emotional damage! Ballad for Sophie broke my heart and put it back together multiple times over.
Julien recalls his worst mistakes and unsavory decisions when telling his unfiltered story to a reporter who slowly wins his trust. His story begins as a wealthy young pianist during WWII, and through a wild series of events, he later becomes a drugged-out famous pianist wishing for a different life. He frequently calls himself the villain of the story, but you can't help but root for him—and, more importantly, feel for him.
I don't have words for how well Felipe's storytelling fits with the visually stunning illustrations from Juan. A master creative duo! Everything from the emotional reveals to the color palette to the heartwrenching relational blunders, this book will stay with me for a very long time.
This was only on my radar because a book podcaster I listen to warned that it would "ruin all other graphic novels." While I haven't read many, she was 100% correct. It's only September, but this will likely be my favorite book of the year.
Julien recalls his worst mistakes and unsavory decisions when telling his unfiltered story to a reporter who slowly wins his trust. His story begins as a wealthy young pianist during WWII, and through a wild series of events, he later becomes a drugged-out famous pianist wishing for a different life. He frequently calls himself the villain of the story, but you can't help but root for him—and, more importantly, feel for him.
I don't have words for how well Felipe's storytelling fits with the visually stunning illustrations from Juan. A master creative duo! Everything from the emotional reveals to the color palette to the heartwrenching relational blunders, this book will stay with me for a very long time.
This was only on my radar because a book podcaster I listen to warned that it would "ruin all other graphic novels." While I haven't read many, she was 100% correct. It's only September, but this will likely be my favorite book of the year.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Death, Drug use, Physical abuse, Suicidal thoughts, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Violence and War