A review by jshawreads
I Feel Awful, Thanks by Lara Pickle

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Thank you to Netgalley, Lara Pickle, and Oni Press for providing me with a free electronic copy of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.

I Feel Awful, Thanks is the story of Joana, a young witch, moving to a new city to work in a new job, and slowly learning about herself, her boundaries, and the true depth and meaning of her own happiness.

Frank and honest discussions about mental health between characters are always wonderful to read, and Joana's journey of self-discovery and self-love is a beautiful one to be brought along on. Mix all this into a world of fantasy and magic, and you have an emotional, joyous read as Joana seeks help and is assisted in finding and developing the tools and tricks she needs to manage her emotions and anxieties.

Also, one of my favourite things about I Feel Awful, Thanks, is the art. To see the panels splinter, crack, and shatter as Joana tells people "I'm fine" or as she spirals into negative thought patterns was mindblowing. Simple, yet incredibly effective. I loved this graphic novel, so much.