Books in Bites 27: A Varied Collection

Books in Bites: A Fresh Take on Comics and Beyond

Belly Full of Heart

Madeline Mouse brings a vibrant splash of color to the world with Belly Full of Heart. This comic, published by Silver Sprocket, distills the sweet chaos of falling in love. It’s a whirlwind romance captured with vivid, dream-like imagery. The narrative invites readers into a world where love is both heavy and light, a paradox wonderfully explored.

Mouse uses the medium to transport us into that intoxicating "crush" stage—much like Gatsby’s legendary smile, it’s all-consuming. It’s about being seen as our best selves. This comic is unabashed in its celebration of love’s multifaceted nature. It’s bold, it’s audacious, it’s beautiful—a tribute to lovers of the past, present, and future. The artistry within these 40 pages captures the raw essence of connection.

Gaytheist: Coming Out of My Orthodox Childhood

Lonnie Mann and Ryan Gatts delve into the complexities of self-discovery in Gaytheist, a narrative of bold vulnerability. Published by Street Noise Books, this work is a compelling exploration of a coming-out journey intertwined with religious orthodoxy. Transitioning from one identity to the next, Mann’s story navigates the rivers of tradition and self-expression.

While the comic medium might not be its strongest suit, the story doesn’t falter within its panels. Instead, it delivers a narrative rich with reflection on the intersections of religion and identity. Mann challenges the orthodox norms to find a slice of personal happiness. Although it treads familiar ground, Gaytheist offers a modicum of comfort through its familiar structure.

Nugget Number 3 and 4

Tony DiPasquale unleashes a surreal exploration with his self-published series Nugget Number 3 and 4. This wordless series is a deep dive into a universe swirling with loss, hope, and brutal beauty. DiPasquale echoes the works of Andy Barron and Theo Ellsworth in these full-color fever dreams.

Each vignette plays with the expectations of rising only to fall. Yet, there is hope amidst the setbacks, perhaps the hope of Sisyphus, perpetually pushing his boulder uphill. Each attempt mirrors our own struggles in a relentless world. These tales leave readers pondering the resilience of spirit against impossible odds. Is it a tale of heroism, or is it a poignant critique of our times? The metaphor invites contemplation.

Lou Reed: The King of New York

Will Hermes captures the enigmatic essence of Lou Reed in Lou Reed: The King of New York. Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux, the biography does not sugarcoat Reed’s stark complexities. Hermes paints a candid picture of Reed—flawed, brilliant, and fiercely individualistic.

Reed’s life was a dance on societal fringes, creating both wounds and wonders. The biography neither glorifies nor condemns but rather offers an honest look at Reed’s artistry. Readers gain insights into a man whose music reflects the beauty and brutality of life. Lou Reed, remembered as both a legend and a chronicler of the marginalized, continues to wield influence. His music resonates, transcending his lifetime, a testament to enduring artistry.

Each narrative stands as a testament to the unique power of storytelling, from graphic tales of love to introspective journeys of identity and endurance. With every turn of the page, stories unfold, crafting a mosaic of human experience in vivid color and poignant depth.