Just So Happens

There are not enough graphic novels on the mainstream market, and is this because putting pictures in books seems somewhat juvenile; taking us back to our childhood and making us think they aren’t ’grown up’ enough? Well, that thought is surely challenged in the reading of Fumio Obata’s Just So Happens.

Set across two very different cities and cultures, protagonist Yumiko travels from her home in London back to Japan for the funeral of her father.

Though the story itself doesn’t contain a huge amount of action, the interest lies in Yumiko’s journey of her culture, home and self.

It is told with great care and dignity on what is an extremely sensitive subject matter.

The illustrations reflect the mood of the story perfectly with many sepia tones and soft lines from a watercolour finish creating a sense of movement and transition which mirrors Yumiko’s journey.

Do not rule out graphic novels if you have never tried them; this would surely be the place to start.