REVIEWS+

Zodiac: A Graphic Memoir

Ten Speed Graphic. Jan. 2024. 176p. Tr $28.99. ISBN 9781984862990.
COPY ISBN
Gr 9 Up–This graphic memoir is beautifully crafted. Structurally, it details the main characteristics of the 12 animal signs in the Chinese zodiac, and then presents ancient Chinese folktales that depict the theme of each animal. These Chinese folktales interweave with artist Ai Weiwei’s life, including his family, imprisonment, and career during the Chinese Cultural Revolution era. Poets, teachers, and artists who were commonly accused and condemned during Mao’s Hundred Flowers Movement are also illustrated in great detail. The narrative shifts back and forth through years of events, charting Weiwei’s memory. Living in exile since he was a young child, with no formal education, and being restricted only to Chinese Communist Party–approved comic books all act to cultivate Weiwei’s ability to express his thoughts and create art.
VERDICT Readers will enjoy learning about the extraordinary life journey of artist Ai Weiwei. Recommended.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?