I am not sure what I expected from How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual by Rebecca Burgess, but this was not it.
There is some repetition with the authors feeling and actions (they mention more than once that they “might grow into wanting to have sex” or “it’s something that once happens will feel right.” They also repeat saying how it is uncomfortable with touching people/being touched and repeated mentions of their social anxiety. I think I was looking for more of a “light bulb understanding” of what it means to be Ace. Or understanding you are asexual.
There are some points that show that like many identities, there is no “one true way” and that there is a spectrum. Demisexual and aromantics are also included in the “Asexual Umbrella.” As well as some other areas that are “technical” but not “scientific” or dense with the definitions or explanations.
However, even though it is a very light tone for the majority of the book, it is not for an immature reader. This is due to some sexual images that are shown. (One is a kink situation another of a woman nude/her breasts showing without nipples showing). However, I do feel they are done tastefully. I would assume that it was meant for teens but might not be the best for an “overall understanding” of the subject, but a look into how one person learned who they were, why they felt the way they did and that they were not alone.
There are books and resources mentioned for more information at the end of this graphic novel. Other publisher books are also mentioned.