Gin and Comic #31: It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth – A Masterpiece in Graphic Memoir
For this 31st edition of Gin and Comic, we delve into It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth by Zoe Thorogood. We paired this emotional rollercoaster of a read with an Evolve Double IPA from Progression Brewing Company, enjoyed on the patio after a long day of yardwork. As huge fans of indie books, Thorogood’s work struck a personal chord. This graphic memoir presents raw emotion, stunning visuals, and storytelling that digs deep into the human experience.
Award-Winning and Critically Acclaimed
Thorogood’s It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth isn’t just another graphic memoir—it’s a landmark in the genre. The book was nominated for two 2023 Eisner Awards, including Best Graphic Memoir and Best Writer/Artist. It also took home the 2023 Ringo Award for Best Graphic Novel. These accolades underscore the impact this book has had, highlighting its importance in the comic world as well as its emotional resonance with readers. Its critical reception shows just how much Thorogood’s personal story resonates on a universal level.
A Brave and Honest Exploration of Mental Health
Thorogood doesn’t sugarcoat her struggles with depression and anxiety. Instead, she invites readers into her chaotic inner world, sharing six months of her life in unflinching detail. The honesty in this book is striking, and while the subject matter is heavy, Thorogood manages to weave humor into the narrative, giving readers a balanced emotional experience. It’s rare to find a graphic novel that tackles mental illness with such openness while maintaining a sense of hope, albeit a fragile one.
Visually Stunning and Emotionally Raw
Thorogood’s art is as bold as her storytelling. She shifts between different styles throughout the book—sometimes realistic, sometimes cartoonish, and other times abstract—to mirror the emotional turbulence she experiences. The use of color is particularly striking, with bright bursts interrupting muted tones to reflect moments of clarity or chaos. Her visual metaphors, such as depression portrayed as a grotesque figure lurking in the background, add depth to her story, making readers feel the weight of her mental state. The book’s art is not just an illustration but an extension of her emotions, pulling readers deeper into her world.
Pacing and Dialogue: Nonlinear and Reflective
The narrative unfolds in a nonlinear fashion, reflecting the disjointed nature of memory and mental health. Thorogood’s dialogue is sharp, introspective, and often breaks the fourth wall as she comments on her storytelling process. This self-awareness creates a personal connection between Thorogood and her readers, as if you’re right there with her, experiencing every doubt and triumph. The fragmented storytelling mirrors her mental state, making the pacing feel organic and immersive.
A Similar Vibe to…
If Thorogood’s brutally honest narrative style resonates with you, there are other indie graphic memoirs you’ll likely appreciate. Marbles: Mania, Depression, Michelangelo & Me by Ellen Forney tackles mental illness with the same level of raw honesty. Similarly, The Best We Could Do by Thi Bui explores family trauma through deeply personal storytelling and evocative artwork. These books, like It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth, dive into the complexities of human emotion and identity using unique visual styles.
Why You Should Read It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth
It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth offers 196 pages of Zoe Thorogood’s deepest thoughts, packaged in a beautifully illustrated graphic memoir that leaves a lasting impact. Whether you’re drawn to personal stories, bold artistic choices, or just love indie comics that push boundaries, this book is a must-read. Thorogood’s vulnerability, combined with her creative talent, makes this graphic novel one of the most authentic portrayals of mental health in recent years. As indie book enthusiasts, we can confidently say this is a standout in the graphic novel genre.
This review is part of our Amazon Associates program. We were already reading It’s Lonely at the Centre of the Earth, and by trying out this program, we hope to support our site. If you’re interested in purchasing it, you can do so through this link. Your support helps us continue to bring you the best in indie comic reviews, graphic novel news, and trade paperback exchanges.
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