Graphic Novel Depicts The Difficulty Of Coming Out

Graphic Novel Depicts The Difficulty Of Coming Out
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In the spirit of recent MacArthur "Genius" Grant recipient Alison Bechdel and other comic artists opting for realism over fantasy as their storytelling methods, a new graphic novel depicts the difficulties of growing up as a closeted gay man.

Writer Hubert's previous work has been of a less introspective variety -- his Miss Don't Touch Me series is a pair of thrillers set in 1930s Paris and starring an unconventional housewife -- but this departure from his typical themes is a welcome one. His newest book, Adrian and the Tree of Secrets, follows a shy student to gym class and on after-school escapades.

The protagonist's discomfort in the changing room is expressed by a subtly arched eyebrow -- same goes for his discontent when falling for a classmate who later seems to be in a heterosexual relationship. Adrian's adventures are imbued with thoughtful discussions of art and literature, and are made touchingly relatable by illustrator Marie Caillou.

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