Barricades
Book not yet available in English
Summary:
A graphic novel recounting Sam’s experiences as a trans teenager. Sam is supported by loving, understanding parents at her new school in a new town, after being bullied in her old one. She has a good voice and soon makes friends by joining a rock group. When they begin to build a fanbase on social media, Sam again becomes a target, leading her to reveal her trans identity to her new friends. She sinks into deep depression and begins self-harming again. The other group members treat her with empathy and solidarity, surrounding her on the walk to school to protect her against the insults hurled at her. The book closes ambiguously, on a note of hope.
Edited by: Université Sorbonne Paris Nord
Comment:
A graphic novel with a just, honest voice. Sam’s experiences are framed simply and modestly, never veering into intrusiveness or voyeurism. The question of physical gender reassignment is evoked, though the reader never knows if Sam has undergone the operation, as it is her business alone. All we know is that she has made her own decision. The author shows transitioning is not an easy path and strikes the right note in discussing transphobia, bullying, and self-harm. Family relationships are also portrayed thoughtfully: Sam’s parents are unconditional in their support, but her grandmother simply does not understand. Yet transitioning is also framed positively. Sam gets great pleasure from music, and with the support of her parents, her new friends, and her psychologist, she gradually discovers her own true self.
The highly poetic style is sometimes close to a stream of consciousness. The beautiful illustrations are unusual in the choice of dark colours, reflecting Sam’s difficult journey alternating between depression and hope.