By
Hazel Speed
In general terms graphic novels in former years were not easy on the older eye – the art was too busy but then again they were aimed for the youth of the day, not me.
Then in recent times I discovered Self Made Hero Publishing and am positively hooked by the artistic layouts within biographical storylines, the writing humorous while also retaining historical facts of the subject matter.
The first graphic novel I came across is called Vincent and is all about the artist Vincent Van Gogh.
What really impressed me were the mini replicated famous paintings referenced therein. Very clever. The writing is skilful and on numerous levels. Nothing is cluttered and the reader is not swamped as the colour and text throughout is spacious and as minimal as possible.
After reading Vincent, I was hooked for the next book – Agatha. It is all about Agatha Christie and even referenced the infamous ‘missing weekend’. Not to include any ‘spoiler detail’, sufficient to say the way Hercule Poirot is written in is positively inspired and very funny.
On to the next book(s)
I have just ordered two books about Freud the psycho-analyst.
Apparently an Andy Warhol graphic novel may be available in the future and I cannot wait for same as I am a great fan of his work.
The official website for Self Made Hero gives free taster pages and if you check the above books therein I am sure you will be intrigued to obtain them for yourself. Libraries take note, these are ‘a must’.
Quite a few well known stockists in London have these publications in store or can order and mail to customers. Please consult Self Made Hero’s website first as full detail appears therein regarding various methods of purchase, etc.
I would go so far as to say that these books would make great presents for either adults or children and will provide them with a fantastic start to building a unique library.
In my humble view these publications are not only a true art form but will become collectors’ items of the future.
This is a superb niche market. Well done to all concerned.
Hazel Speed
Photo (c) Hazel Speed – used by kind permision to Tuck Magazine
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