Memoirs in Pictures

Ever hear the quote “The only constant in life is change?” That bit of wisdom has been credited (in its many variations) to the likes of Heraclitus and Gautama Buddha, among others. Sometimes change is viewed as good. Other times people see change as bad. Changes can be ambivalent or make no real difference in the landscape of the world. It is what it is. It’s how you react to change that matters.

One of the most recent changes I have seen (and love) is the rise of graphic memoirs. These titles give their creators the chance to pull you directly into their memory. They share heartbreak, joy, struggle, and perseverance. As a reader, you can experience what they have, and gain empathy and understanding. They can provide you with change.

I enjoy a good graphic memoir and here are a few of my most recent favorites:

     Mexikid by Pedro Martin won the 2024 Pura Belpre Award (both for illustrations and author) and was a 2024 Newberry Honor book for good reason. This memoir takes you on the road of exploration with Pedro as he connects with his legendary grandfather as well as his own Mexican identity and culture. It’s a moving portrait of learning where you came from and what it can mean for your future self. This title resonates in the heart.

     This Country: Searching for Home in (Very) Rural America by Navied Mahdavian is a moving portrait of finding a place to call home. Their struggle for identity and acceptance in an area where things have always been a certain way could be a new experience to many, and one everyone should share in. Growing up in rural USA, this story was like witnessing history and so very accurate.

     Akim Aliu: Dreamer by Akim Aliu takes you not only into the world of ice hockey, but also to growing up in Ukraine and Toronto. Akim tells (and shows) us what it’s like to be judged by the color of his skin, but to still hold on to that dream and achieve his goals. I love ice hockey and this memoir gave me even more to absorb about the depths of the sport and the players themselves.

Graphic Memoirs will touch your heart, give you more to think about, and expand your horizon. They will change you. If you are interested in reading/sharing more of these real life moments, check out these lists for Juvenile, Teen, and Adult graphic memoirs.