Stone Fruit by Lee Lai

 

This is a very strange graphic novel and I didn't really like the art style but it fit the story, which made it easier to appreciate once I started to get a better sense of the characters. I think the best comparison that I can really think of is the TV show, Bojack Horseman. STONE FRUIT is a book about messy (and sometimes toxic) relationships and mental health and LGBT+ issues and family and parenting and all of this other stuff, only there's no gloss here.

When Rachel and Bron are playing with Rachel's niece, the author chose to draw them as, like, spirit-like monsters to capture the feral nature of child's play. This serves as an interesting juxtaposition to the more grounded adult storylines, such as Bron going back to reconnect with her Christian family members that she left after coming out as trans, or Rachel trying to build her relationship with her single mother sister who is stressed and worried that all of her issues are keeping her from being a good/fun parent.

This isn't the happiest story in the world, but it isn't sad, either. It just feels like a serious slice-of-life drama about figuring out your life as an adult and trying to salvage you can from relationships that aren't perfect.

Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review!

3.5 out of 5 stars