The literary works previously featured in the varied and venerable (1915) Best American series have spotlighted short stories, mysteries, sports writing, and other literary forms. This book marks the debut of comics, which should, in theory, have made me run in the other direction, since this medium and I have never gotten along. But given the overall standard of the series and the choice of editor (Harvey Pekar, the author of American Splendor comics), I gave it a try.
Conclusion? What an old fart I've been.
Included in these 30 chosen pieces are comics of great tenderness and insight, featuring artists who understand the power of "less" in a genre I've often found too visually stressful to enjoy. Whether following the hazards of bus travel with a schizophrenic stranger (Justin Hall), or reading my own thoughts in a soliloquy about self-doubt (Lynda Barry), once tuned in, I stayed tuned.
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