Lucy Knisley is one of my favourite graphic novelists out there. I have read and re-read all of her other books, so when I was given an ARC from Netgalley of her soon-to-be released book, Kid Gloves, I was extremely excited. This instalment of Knisley’s autobiographical series follows Lucy as she embarks on a challenging journey into parenthood, rife with miscarriages, health problems and a near-death experience. It is a fascinating and heart-rending read.
A Perfect Blend of Narrative & Science
What I love about Knisley’s books is that woven throughout her personal stories are facts and histories relating to the topic that she is covering. In Kid Gloves, she examines not only her own struggles as a young woman trying to conceive and carry a child to term, but she also delves into the complex history and science of reproduction. I think that this connection between autobiographical stories and the wider history acts to draw the reader in. Even though Knisley’s narrative is personal, it begins to feel personal to the reader in this way too.
A Light Touch
There are moments in this narrative that will smash your heart, but there are also some hilarious episodes too. I liked reading the lighter anecdotes such as the one about crazy morning sickness (i.e. learning that Charlotte Bronte died from morning sickness! What?!?) This kept the tone of the narrative light, which balanced out the heartbreaking stories about her early miscarriages and the many other hardships that she faced. Reading Lucy Knisley’s books feels like talking to a good friend that you haven’t seen in a while and I think it is because her writing is accessible. This is especially important if you consider that the message of her book–that health care for women isn’t necessarily in line with their needs–is an important one.
Read this Book! Read it! Why? Because it will change the way you view pregnancy and childbirth along with a million other fascinating ideas. Read it because her story will make you cry. Read it to fall in love with her art (it is beautiful). Read it to feel like you’ve just discovered your book best friend, because seriously, if you haven’t yet discovered Knisley, it’s time. Okay, good talk. Now go pickup a copy of Kid Gloves on February 26, 2019.
Have you read Lucy Knisley’s books? Which one is your favourite?
Note: I was given a copy of Kid Gloves in exchange for an honest review.
The Novel Shrink 
I’ve never even heard of Lucy Knisley, but you’ve got me intrigued! Since this book isn’t out yet, which of her books would you recommend that I read first? 🙂
Hi indiefan20! I would suggest starting with “Relish” or “French Milk,” because those are her first couple of books (and they are really awesome)–but you can start with any of her books and enjoy them 🙂