A Very Human Story Presented in a Graphic Novel

Cover for The Strange Ones. Graphic novel cover by Jeremy Jusay.

Where to buy this graphic novel:

Credits:

Jeremy Jusay – Writer, Artist, Cover Artist, Creator

Published by Simon & Schuster

SPOILER-FREE ZONE

The Strange Ones by Jeremy Jusay isn’t an action-packed superhero comic book. It’s a well-grounded story of two people who meet by chance, and how they enhance each other’s lives just by being around each other. This one will touch your heart. If you’re looking for a book about friendship, grief, and life in general, this is the one for you.

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You are now exiting the spoiler-free zone. Do yourself a favor and stop reading if you don’t want any spoilers.

This graphic novel is about Franck and Anjeline. The entire story is narrated by Anjeline from her own point of view. It takes place in the 90’s, and the two meet in the New York punk rock scene. What makes this story so remarkable is how unremarkable the interactions between Franck and Anjeline are. They’re not madly in love with each other (although there is mention of love). They’re not making plans to spend the rest of their lives together. They just enjoy each other’s company while living in the here-and-now.

Although they both were born and raised in New York, they take advantage of their encounters to go sight-seeing around the city. The two young adults take in and share the beauty that the city has to offer. They even attend a Rocky Horror Picture Show viewing; a first for both. Over time, Franck is able to open up to Anjeline about his romantic past. At the same time she is able to chip away at his comfort zone. The graphic novel does a good job at conveying just how close they come, despite the relationship being completely platonic.

Some major stuff happens with both Franck and Anjeline, but I can’t bring myself to spoil it for you. You’ll just have to pick up this graphic novel and see for yourself. The Strange Ones explores a wide range of human interaction and emotion, & even goes into the power of dreams. Grief is a big theme, and is part of why Anjeline has trouble opening up to Franck completely. The book also goes into the power of friendship, and how a relationship with one person can blossom into multiple friendships with other people. I recommend you purchase this graphic novel and read it in one sitting. It’s one of those stories that really sticks with you. I know that it will stick with me for years to come.