Graphic Novel Review: So Long Sad Love by Mirion Malle

Posted on August 22, 2024 at 6:31 am by Gene Ambaum

So Long Sad Love by Mirion Malle. Translated by Aleshia Jensen. Drawn & Quarterly, 2024. 9781770466975. 204pp.

This graphic novel opens with a scene where Cléo is considering having disappeared, how everything seems easier and how right the decision was. The rest of the book is about why she decided to disappear. it starts with her tabling at a small press comic show and hanging out with friends. She meets Farah Mahdi, who talks about joining a women-only collective that’s been helpful for her comics. During their conversation, it comes out that Cléo is dating Charles Mercier. Farah is shaken, and later, when Cléo talks with Charles, he’s worried about what Farah might have said about him. His behavior gets worse when he finds out Farah offered Cléo the opportunity to publish some of her work in a magazine.

What happens next feels honest and real. It’s worth noting the book ends on a positive note as Cléo’s life continues past that opening scene and she finds a community that suits her.

Malle’s art is wonderful, and I particularly like the way her color choices and the way she draws characters work together to give a sense of who people are. (The book is mostly scenes of folks talking, so this is critical to its success.)