Review – The Nao of Brown
The Nao of Brown is a beautiful book. From the design of the cover, the red pages, the beautiful interior pages and then the rich story and characters, it’s just a “the complete package.” Written and drawn by Glyn Dillon, the story is about every day people and their life, pretty simple, and it’s beyond engaging.
Nao Brown, is a stylish young woman who’s hafu (half Japanese, half English), but suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder and fighting violent urges to harm other people. She gets dumped, a job prospect falls threw, her life sucks, and that’s just the beginning. The story then follows her, as she puts the pieces of her life back together, gets a job, attempts to center herself and find a relationship. It’s a coming-of-age story, with a lot of Japanese pop-culture references and talk.
The book is stunningly illustrated with Dillon’s gorgeous watercolors and accompanied by witty, touching dialogue. The story “feels” real, like an autobiographical tale, when it’s clearly not. That’s a testament to Dillon’s brilliant writing. The fact he did double duty with art, that’s gorgeous too shows the man has massive talent.
This is a graphic novel you’ll want to get others to read so you can discuss it afterwards, it’s that good and that engaging. It’s been days since I finished reading it and I still want to discuss the symbolism and characters.
This graphic novel with absolutely be on numerous “best of” lists when next year comes around.
Story and Art: Glyn Dillon Publisher: Abrams ComicArts & Self Made Hero
Story: 9.5 Art: 9.5 Overall: 9.5 Recommendation: Buy
Graphic Policy was provided a copy for FREE for review.
