A User’s Guide to Neglectful Parenting softcover graphic novel
Writer/Artist/Cover artist: Guy Delisle
Translation: Helge Dascher
Publisher: Drawn & Quarterly
Price: $12.95 US/CAN
I’m almost ashamed to say this is my first exposure to Guy Delisle’s work. I’ve heard his name uttered in glowing terms often in recent years, and on top of that, he’s Canadian (though apparently now living in Europe). I wish I could say it was as a patriotic Canuck that I put my cash on the counter to buy this book, but in reality, it was the title alone that grabbed my attention. I can’t imagine there’s a parent of a baby, toddler or pre-teen that wouldn’t have his or her interest piqued at the title. Delisle’s sense of humor is thoroughly relatable, as are the scenarios he presents here of lazy or impatient parenting. I was entertained from start to finish when reading this book. My main problem with it, though, is how short-lived that entertainment was. As a father, I know real life offers no shortage of material on the subject of bumbling parenting, but this book struck me as surprisingly brief. I suppose in a way it’s a good thing. The book was fun enough that I didn’t want it to be over — they say always leaving them wanting more — but I was also left with the impression the digest didn’t merit the price on the back of the book.
Recent Comments