By Isabella Purdy
With the classic “Smile” still fresh in fans’ minds, author Raina Telgemier brings a new novel to the scene that is just as incredible as the complex first book we know and love. This novel, titled “Guts” is a prequel that covers Raina’s youth in a unique and new take.
This highly anticipated book shows us Raina in the fourth and fifth grade as she deals with friend trouble and family trouble. As a prequel to Smile, this book does not feature any dental drama, but food related anxiety and drama. After getting the stomach flu one night, Raina throws up for the very first time. To make matters worse, Raina’s stomach doesn’t stop hurting after that.
Her stomach issues coincide with her problems at home and at school. Her thoughts, fear of friends, food and relationships have caused her stomach to be painful and constantly upset. “Guts” isn’t afraid to show the gross sides of growing up in a light-hearted and humorous way for all audiences to enjoy.
Telgemier has given us an incredible graphic memoir with a truly unique art style. This story that she presents is a thought provoking, funny and charming story based on Telgemier’s youth.
“Guts” conveys the troubles of growing up and finding the courage within to face your fears. Telgemier uses bright color schemes to bring this novel to life with her cartoonish drawings to really capture the essence of the graphic novel.
If you are a fan of “Smile,” this book is for you. It can be enjoyed by anyone and all ages – no one is too old for an inspirational story about growing up.
