Cover image of Feelings: A Story in Seasons
Feelings: A Story in Seasons
Manjit Thapp
Quick Take
A gorgeous visual journey through one young woman's year of emotions--from the saturated highs of early summer to the grey isolation of late winter.Enter Manjit Thapp's world, where you'll find moods that change as quickly as the weather; the different shades of anxiety and hope that each new season brings; and the stages of joy and pain that fuel our growth. From the spark of possibility and jolt of creativity in High Summer, to the need for release from anxiety and pressure during Monsoon, to the desolation and numbness of Winter, Thapp implores us to consider the seasons of our own emotional journeys.Articulating and validating the range of feelings we all experience, this is a book that allows us to feel connected and comforted by the experiences that make us human.
Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Feelings: A Story in Seasons

Introduction

"Feelings: A Story in Seasons" is a captivating graphic novel by Manjit Thapp that takes readers on a journey through one young woman's emotional journey over the course of a year. With stunning illustrations and evocative storytelling, this book explores the ups and downs of human emotions, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and find comfort in the shared struggles and triumphs of the protagonist. In this article, we will delve into the book's summary, author information, and readers' rave reviews to provide a comprehensive review of this beautifully crafted graphic novel.

About Manjit Thapp

Manjit Thapp is an illustrator from the United Kingdom who graduated with a BA in illustration from Camberwell College of Arts. Her illustrations combine traditional and digital media, and she has gained recognition for her unique style and ability to capture moods and emotions through her art. With her talent for visual storytelling, Manjit Thapp brings a fresh perspective to the exploration of human emotions in "Feelings: A Story in Seasons."

Analysis of Views

  1. Beautiful Illustrations: Readers rave about the stunning illustrations in "Feelings: A Story in Seasons." The combination of traditional and digital media creates a visually captivating experience that enhances the emotional journey of the protagonist. The illustrations are described as breathtaking, gorgeous, and beautifully mundane, capturing the essence of each season and emotion with remarkable detail.
  2. Relatability: Many readers find themselves relating to the protagonist's experiences and emotions depicted in the book. The exploration of anxiety, depression, and the need for solitude resonates with readers who have struggled with similar issues. The book provides a safe space for readers to connect with their own emotional journeys, validating their experiences and offering comfort in knowing they are not alone.
  3. Emotional Depth: "Feelings: A Story in Seasons" delves into the depths of human emotions, exploring the range of feelings we all experience. The book touches on topics such as anxiety, depression, creativity, and growth, allowing readers to gain insight into their own emotional landscapes. The emotional depth of the storytelling is described as gripping, honest, and poignant, providing a profound impact on readers.
  4. Visual Insight: The graphic novel format offers a unique visual insight into the protagonist's emotional journey. The six-season calendar based on some South Asian countries serves as a backdrop for the changing moods and feelings throughout the year. The illustrations capture the essence of each season, from the vibrancy of high summer to the gray isolation of winter, allowing readers to experience the emotional shifts alongside the protagonist.
  5. Meditative Approach: Some readers appreciate the contemplative approach to the art in "Feelings: A Story in Seasons." The deliberate arrangement of images for emotional effects creates a meditative reading experience that encourages reflection and introspection. While some find it abstract and not narrative-driven, others appreciate its poetic nature and the way it evokes contemplative thoughts about human emotions.

Reasons for Recommendation

  1. Beauty and Artistry: Readers highly recommend "Feelings: A Story in Seasons" for its stunning illustrations and artistic merit. The breathtaking visuals captivate readers from start to finish, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates beautiful graphic novels.
  2. Emotional Connection: The relatability of the protagonist's experiences and emotions resonates with readers, making "Feelings: A Story in Seasons" a book that fosters emotional connection. Readers feel connected to the protagonist's journey and find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their struggles with anxiety and depression.
  3. Insightful Exploration: The exploration of human emotions in "Feelings: A Story in Seasons" provides readers with valuable insights into their own emotional landscapes. The book offers a glimpse into the range of feelings we all experience, validating our emotions and encouraging self-reflection. It serves as a reminder that our feelings are natural and necessary for personal growth.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

  1. Limited Narrative Drive: Some readers find that "Feelings: A Story in Seasons" lacks a strong narrative drive or character development. The focus on illustrations and emotions over dialogues may make it less engaging for those who prefer more traditional storytelling elements or character-driven narratives. However, this limitation does not detract from the book's overall impact on readers who appreciate its unique approach to exploring human emotions.
  2. Abstraction: While some readers appreciate the abstract nature of "Feelings: A Story in Seasons," others find it challenging or lacking in poetic depth compared to other works they have read. The book's focus on visual storytelling may not resonate with readers who prefer more poetic or narrative-driven storytelling styles. However, this aspect of the book adds to its unique charm and contributes to its impact on readers who appreciate its experimental approach to storytelling.

Conclusion

"Feelings: A Story in Seasons" by Manjit Thapp is a beautifully illustrated graphic novel that takes readers on an emotional journey through one young woman's year of feelings. With stunning visuals and evocative storytelling, this book explores the range of human emotions and invites readers to reflect on their own experiences. Readers rave about the book's relatability, emotional depth, visual insights, and meditative approach to artistry. While some may find it lacking in narrative drive or poetic depth compared to other works, "Feelings: A Story in Seasons" offers a unique perspective on human emotions that resonates with many readers. Overall, this graphic novel is highly recommended for those seeking beauty, connection, and introspection through visual storytelling.