“Sometimes, you read a book and it fills you with this weird evangelical zeal, and you become convinced that the shattered world will never be put back together unless and until all living humans read the book.”
John Green
John Green
At FTR we like graphic novels - some great stories are being told in this powerful mix of illustrations and text. Younger readers might like stories about the heroic adventures of a mouse or explore teenage relationships; mature readers can check out modern takes on classics, compelling memoirs, and stories of terror or disbelief. Graphic novels are particularly powerful, as some experiences may be better shown rather than described. Graphic novels are quite beautiful to look at and are often easy to pick up and put down (if you're feeling tired).
Specifically about mental health and illness, our friends at Page 45 have put together a great selection of graphic novels, mostly authored and illustrated by people who have been there. Hugely informative and inspiring, these stories must be read and shared. Get the shortlist here. There are reviews and illustrative art. It's not exhaustive but contains many comics and graphic novels (fiction and non-fiction) which have sufficient coverage of mental illness or issues to make them relevant. If it's missing anything, Page 45 would love to know!
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Importantly, Page 45 is an independent comic and graphic novel shop in Nottingham, and their staff kindly produced this list because they cared and wanted to share these inspiring reads with everyone. Reception to their prominent mental health section in the shop has been great. If you're luck enough to live in Nottingham, pop in; all the staff are friendly, very approachable and knowledgeable and, rest assured, will steer you in the right direction. Making a purchase from them supports an independent shop, and will contribute to the lives of people who have shared their very personal accounts with you. All in all, good for the conscience.
Other graphic novels that may be of interest to you and your friends can be found at Graphic Medicine and for younger readers, GoodReads have compiled a list on a range of mental health-related topics. |