Blankets

The first UK publication for this modern classic, described by the Guardian as 'one of the best graphic novels of all time'.

'Moving, tender, beautifully drawn, painfully honest and probably the most important graphic novel since Jimmy Corrigan.' - Neil Gaiman

Almost 15 years on from its American publication, finally the UK can enjoy its own edition of Blankets, Craig Thomson’s matchless and largely autobiographical tale of adolescence, heartbreak and the unshackling of faith. Winner of both Harvey and Ignatz Awards, Blankets stands as a shining example of the potential of the comic strip medium.

Set against the snowbound, rural isolation of Wisconsin, Thomson’s story charts the progress of Craig, a boy born into a devoutly Christian family. A childhood darkened by abuse later flowers into companionship and love as Craig meets Raina, a girl whose faith is rather more challenged than his own. What follows will lead Craig to question his most cherished of beliefs and open doors to a life far beyond the confines of his family’s small-town expectation.

Sensitively observed and lyrically written, from the outset Blankets made waves in the graphic novel industry as an elegant counterpoint to what was then a rarely literary form. Influential and beautifully drawn, it’s a pleasure to see Blankets finally receive proper recognition on this side of the Atlantic.

Readers are also recommended to investigate Habibi, Thompson’s later epic the Independent felt earned him the right to be considered as “not only the most masterful of graphic novelists but our finest contemporary writers, regardless of medium.”