Awhile back, I was looking at a list of graphic novels. One that stood out was Noise: A Graphic novel based on a true story. It sounded interesting. I was expecting this 100 plus page book about how the noises around us affect us. Or how the main character has issues with noise (who doesn’t? But sometimes a noise, or too much/too many noises can really overstimulate the system). I figured the main character might be autistic and too much noise/stimulation does not usually end well.
I had a few other thoughts, but it was not until I found a pre-loved copy that I ordered it. Kathleen Raymundo, I am sure you are lovely person, but um… you did not live up to my expectations. Not that there is anything wrong with Noise, it is a good short story that would fit perfectly in a collection of stories/graphic novel stories. It is the chicken wings of the literature world: it tastes good, but not filling.
I wanted more. Thankfully I got some of that with the illustrations. The minimalist nature of them is refreshing. It does allow for focus on the story. Another reason more meat to the story would have worked. The bold colors and sharp lines are classic almost anime. The wide eyes and body types are old school. But everything is new and fresh. However, I never did really grab what Noise was. My English major eye saw noises, but not so much how they worked. The only obvious one is the noise of the young boy our main character befriends. My aged 8 to 11 (young 12) self just enjoyed a story.
I probably will pass this along to a friend of mine to see if her children can give me a true reading of it, but in the meantime, curious to know what everyone else might think.