The Sculptor by Scott McCloud
This is one of the best graphic novels I've read this year. I loved everything about it, the story, the characters, the drawing, the underlying message.
As the book begins David Smith, the main character is depressed and feeling sorry for himself. He's had a lot of loss in his life and his only dream is to be a successful sculptor. He knows that he has talent, but he doesn't seem to have been given the opportunity to show it. His best friend has tried to do that in the gallery he works for, but hasn't been able to give David the exposure he needs to get noticed.
David has issues, he is too outspoken at times, not understanding the art of diplomacy. But he also is a good reader of people and a noticer, who looks at the details of people and what is important to them. His losses have marked him, and left him open for the opportunity that is offered to him. An opportunity that he knows has a cost.
As David meets a girl and falls for her, his story changes. He is torn between his creative dream and his feelings, and he must learn from her what is important.
I really liked the explanation at the end of the book of the origin of the story, and the significance of parts of it to the author's own life.
A winner.
I had to return this to the library before I was finished; thanks for reminding me that I need to get back on the hold list (or, else, buy a copy: he does tell and show a good story, doesn't he?).
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