Review of How to Draw a Secret: A Graphic Novel
From the moment I heard about How to Draw a Secret, the latest graphic novel by Cindy K. S. Chen, I felt an undeniable pull toward the narrative. The mixture of art, family complexities, and the exploration of identity—especially as it relates to a bi-cultural upbringing—struck a personal chord in me. As someone who has navigated the intricacies of family relationships myself, I knew Cindy’s story would resonate deeply.
In this beautifully illustrated journey, we meet Cindy, a young artist living in California with her mother and her two older sisters, Jess and Em. The shadow of her father, who moved back to Taiwan four years ago, looms large over their lives, especially as he is not just absent but also part of a secret that will shake Cindy’s world. The heart of the narrative lies in a school assignment about "What Family Means to Me," a project that reveals just how complex those familial ties can be, particularly when your family is split across continents.
Cindy’s struggle with her father’s absence and the discovery that he has moved on with another family exemplifies a familiar yet poignant theme: the challenge of reconciling love and anger towards someone who has caused pain. Chen captures these emotions with a tender grace, illustrating how the smallest happenings, like a call from her father about her Nai Nai’s passing, can spark a whirlwind of feelings. The narrative flows smoothly, punctuated by both sorrowful and joyful moments, reflecting the duality of family life.
I appreciated how the setting of Taiwan was not just a backdrop but a vibrant character in itself. The detailed drawings of bustling streets and delicious food transport readers right into the heart of the culture, making it feel like a virtual trip for those of us who may never experience it in real life. The dynamic of Cindy and her sisters, their closeness mixed with the underlying tension from their father’s choices, adds layers to the story that make it rich and relatable.
The writing style is accessible but layered. Chen employs a clever mix of dialogue and inner thoughts to shed light on each character’s motivations, making their struggles palpable. The pacing is spot-on; moments of reflection seamlessly flow into scenes brimming with action, and I found myself fully immersed in Cindy’s world.
One memorable moment was when Cindy said, “Finding the perfect picture of my imperfect family feels impossible.” This beautifully encapsulates the essence of her journey—seeking peace even when everything seems broken. It’s this keen observation about family life that makes the narrative so impactful and relatable.
Though the graphic novel is rooted in real emotional struggles, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of concern that many contemporary graphic memoirs tread familiar, sorrowful waters. The haunting memory of artists like Jennifer and Matt Holm, who explore turbulent childhoods, reminded me that while the struggle is real, joy can coexist with hardship.
In conclusion, I would recommend How to Draw a Secret to readers who appreciate thoughtful explorations of family dynamics, especially those with multicultural contexts, similar to Gene Luen Yang’s Parachute Kids. It’s a beautifully illustrated reminder that families—despite their flaws—can be sources of love, art, and healing. This heartfelt journey not only opened my eyes to new cultural nuances but also encouraged me to reflect on my family’s tapestry, both imperfect and unique. In that way, it’s a journey worth taking.
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