Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Flocks

Flocks
by L. Nichols
Secret Acres, 2018. 332 pages. Graphic Novel

It can be hard to figure out where you "belong" in life. Imagine how much harder it would be if the community you've grown up in and loved considers who you are to be a perversion, a sin against God and nature. L. Nichols takes us on his  journey of self-discovery, from his conservative Christian upbringing, as a female, in Louisiana, through his struggle with his identity and all the "flocks" - friends, family, communities - which shaped him.

Of all the wonderful things about this book, I have to start by saying that L. Nichols' has an incredible talent for connecting emotionally through his art and storytelling. The art alone in this book is a wonder; neither the story nor the art overtakes the other, but balance to engage you not just as a reader, but as a confidante. No matter your background, you'll connect with and feel for  L. Rather, you'll feel with him, and I dare anyone to read this book and tell me they felt otherwise. FLOCKS is precisely what the doctor ordered for a world that's in dire need of opening its heart to the people it too often casts aside and ridicules.

MW

1 comment:

Hannah said...

This book has a beautiful balance between story and art. The author does a great job of presenting hard topics in a palatable way that leaves the reader connecting with the author through his difficult experiences. It discusses the feelings of guilt, shame, confusion, hate, love, joy, and acceptance without being preachy. This is a good resource for those seeking to understand more about the LGBTQ community.