''Guts'' is a 2019 American
graphic novel
A graphic novel is a long-form, fictional work of sequential art. The term ''graphic novel'' is often applied broadly, including fiction, non-fiction, and anthologized work, though this practice is highly contested by comic scholars and industry ...
written and illustrated by
Raina Telgemeier
Raina Diane Telgemeier (/'ɹeɪna 'tɛlgə'maɪəɹ/, born May 26, 1977) is an American cartoonist. Her works include the autobiographical webcomic ''Smile'', which was published as a full-color graphic novel in February 2010, and the follow-up ...
and colored by Braden Lamb. The book received positive reviews from critics, who praised Telgemeier's normalization of mental health problems. The book also received two
Eisner Awards
The Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, commonly shortened to the Eisner Awards, are prizes given for creative achievement in American comic books, sometimes referred to as the comics industry's equivalent of the Academy Awards. They are named in ...
.
Background
As with the 2 other books in the ''Smile'' series, ''Guts'' is an
autobiographical novel
An autobiographical novel is a form of novel using autofiction techniques, or the merging of autobiographical and fictive elements. The literary technique is distinguished from an autobiography or memoir by the stipulation of being fiction. Bec ...
detailing events of Telgemeier's life. In an interview with Reading Rockets, Telgemeier explains that originally, she did not want to write about her stomach problems as she thought it would be too "gross" and "disgusting". However, she later realized that the more open she was, "the better".
''Guts'' was written and illustrated in about 2 years.
Reception
''Guts'' received positive reception. Scott Stossel from ''
The New York Times
''The New York Times'' (''the Times'', ''NYT'', or the Gray Lady) is a daily newspaper based in New York City with a worldwide readership reported in 2020 to comprise a declining 840,000 paid print subscribers, and a growing 6 million paid d ...
'' said "'Guts' is dedicated to 'anyone who feels afraid.' For anyone that includes, this book’s warmth, humanity and humor provides a balm more soul-soothing than any pill." Karen Jensen from ''Teen Librarian Toolbox'' said "Far too many of our young people are wrestling with mental health issues and we need to do better for them. ''Guts'' is just one of the ways that we can help. And that’s the power of story." ''
Kirkus Reviews'' said: "With young readers diagnosed with anxiety in ever increasing numbers, this book offers a necessary mirror to many."
Awards
See also
References
American children's books
2019 children's books
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