Adam de Souza

3.5
I won a copy of this book from a giveaway on LibraryThing in exchange for a review. This is the first graphic novel I've ever read (outside of my elementary school bit strips experience). I think it's a solid story. It was an easy and quick read. I enjoyed the illustrations and use of colour. I wish there was more character development between the core 3 who started the trip. I could connect with some of the concepts Oli felt. But the characters felt shallow and not very deep. I also wasn't the biggest fan of the info dump message at the end of the story (info dumpings are not my cup of tea that said I liked the message just not the execution). Overall I enjoyed reading it. It took me less than 24 hours on a workday, I was engaged and interested the entire time.

PS. Neopets still exists, I loved that game.… (altro)

If you're looking for an engaging and thought-provoking graphic novel, Adam de Souza's The Gulf is a compelling choice. This young adult (YA) graphic novel combines the elements of a coming-of-age story with a road trip adventure, capturing the complexities of teenage life and the quest for identity.

The Gulf follows a group of high school friends who, disillusioned with their current lives and facing the pressures of impending adulthood, decide to run away to join a commune on a remote Gulf Island off the coast of Vancouver. The story centers around Oli, who has long dreamt of escaping to this commune. As graduation looms, she convinces her friends Milo and Alvin to join her on this journey. The narrative explores their interpersonal dynamics, the challenges they face, and the profound realizations they encounter along the way.

The artwork in The Gulf is both striking and evocative. De Souza uses a limited color palette that shifts to reflect the emotional landscape of the characters, enhancing the storytelling through visual means. The hand-inked drawings and varied panel compositions create a dynamic reading experience that keeps the audience engaged.

For anyone seeking a graphic novel that is both visually stunning and rich in narrative, The Gulf by Adam de Souza is a must-read. It offers a free-spirited exploration of youth, friendship, and the search for meaning in an increasingly complex world. Whether you're a fan of YA literature or graphic novels, this book promises an enriching experience that resonates on multiple levels.… (altro)