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Ghost World


Summary: Do you remember your friends from middle school? How about the ones from high school? You know, the amigos who you used to hang around with, who helped you get through puberty, and who helped develop who you are today. Now, were these friends the same ones you hung out with in college? Or, even as you entered your twenties? For the majority of us, the answer is "No." We change, we grow up, we develop different interests. In Ghost World, this is what happens to two close friends, Enid and Rebecca. Many people would list this novel as just another coming-of-age story, meaning an attainment of maturity within the characters, but it goes a bit deeper than that.  As you read about these two girls, you see two rebels without causes. They're angry and impatient with the world around them, critical of everyone including themselves. Initially they are the closest of friends, but as their relationship is revealed to us, you can't help but ask "Why?" You also can't help but ask, "Some people aren't really like this, are they?" Despite their self deprecation and trading of insults, these two girls need each others' friendship; so then, what makes these two peas separate from the pod?  Well, that's what the reader has to discover.

Reference: Daniel Clowes (1998). Ghost World. Fantagraphics Books. Seattle, WA.

Why I Picked It Up: Movies based on comic books always grab my attention and make me feel good for the comic book industry. I feel a sort of vindication that my reading interests have become acceptable. Then as I watch the movie I judge how well the director followed the original story, being critical somewhat like Enid and Rebecca. Now, I had seen Ghost World previously on the shelves in some of my local comic shops, but paid little attention to it until they made the movie version; that's when I decided to pick it up.

Why I Finished It: The characters of Enid and Rebecca fascinated me. I saw them and thought about some of the high school students I taught.  I wondered if any of them had similar characteristics like these two girls. Some of my students reminded me a little too much of them. Plus, since I had never been a person of that mind set, I couldn't help but be drawn to them. I was appalled by their behavior, but fascinated at the same time. I honestly never really warmed to Enid or Rebecca, but yet I wanted to find out what ends up happening to them.

Recommendation: I'm aware that this graphic novel was critically lauded, but I can't help but find some of the content very disconcerting. It's definitely not for children, that's for sure. However, the story line of the girls' relationship and characteristics are undeniably intriguing; kudos to Daniel Clowes for that. Additionally, his illustrations do a good job of complimenting his story telling making it easy to follow and understand. The coloring even works well in giving the novel that abstract feeling. Ironically, after reading the graphic novel, I have no interest in seeing the movie, being shown the story once was enough for me.  I would be hesitant in recommending this novel, but I can't deny the impact of the story. So, if you're a graphic novel enthusiast, then I would suggest you give this one a try, but I strongly reiterate, this graphic novel isn't for everyone.

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