The
Soap Lady exists in so many ways that it's hard to immediately
categorize. Of course it's a graphic novel; after all, it
has words and pictures. Simultaneously, its design and style
evoke classic children's literature, ranging from Goodnight
Moon to (one of my favorites) Harold and the Purple Crayon.
Ultimately, its contradictory nature reveals one of its greatest
strengths; The Soap Lady is simply a beautifully told tale
for readers of any age. The art and story by Renee French
are lovingly crafted; the art itself stands out readily, with
muted tones against dreamy images. It is touching without
being overbearing, and speaks to the travails of the outsider
with the ease and eloquence of a Tim Burton or a Chris Ware.
I
enjoy being able to glean different interpretations from art,
and I'll gather that a different interpretation will appear
here for every reader at every age level. The Soap Lady's
initial appearance evoked for me images of Aphrodite, but
she could just as easily appear in a fantastic manner because
that's just what magic people do. The gentle friendship that
blossoms between the Lady and the young boy Rollo put me in
mind of other gems like "The Snowman". However, despite the
wide range of references and influence evident in the work,
The Soap Lady remains steadfastly original with every turn
of the page.
Of
course, as is the inevitable wont in a tale of this type,
society will reject the outsider. That theme recurs so frequently
in literature in general and comics specifically only because
it's true. Our society is given to rash action and overreaction.
Rollo's soft words and earnest nature don't deflect the inevitable.
Mobs have minds of their own; or rather, they don't. And therein
lies the problem. However, French leaves the reader with continued
hope, and that becomes the last lingering, floating image.
Obviously,
The Soap Lady has earned by highest recommendation. It doesn't
just belong on your bookshelf, but in the hands of your friends
and children. Top Shelf Productions has a habit of distributing
incredible work by extremely talented people. The Soap Lady
isn't just a lovely book; it's a gift.
Troy
Brownfield is the Editor-in-Chief of Shotgun Reviews. Other
suitable-for-all-ages classics that he enjoys include the
works of Roald Dahl, Richard Adam's Watership Down, and of
course, The Suess. Email Troy at psikotyk@aol.com
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