Graphic Novel Group - Habibi (Tuesday 3rd April)

[Arun Hackett]

For April’s Mad Graphic Novel Group, we will be discussing Habibi, a
book by Craig Thompson, the creator of the book Blankets that we
discussed previously in our group. Thompson began working on Habibi at
the end of 2004 and chose to create this book as part of a desire to
better understand and humanize Islam, and focus on the beauty of
Arabic and Islamic cultures, in contrast to their vilification.
The 672-page book is set in a fictional Islamic fairytale landscape,
and depicts the relationship between Dodola and Zam, two escaped child
slaves, who are torn apart and undergo many transformations as they
grow into new names and new bodies, which prove to be obstacles to
their love when they later reunite.
The book since its recent release has had mixed reviews, many praising
it and some relating Craig Thompson’s artwork to that of Will Eisner’s
and Joe Sacco’s quality, while others commented on the book's
treatment of sexuality as something forbidden or shameful dimension,
as well as the sexual violence endured by the characters as a negative
aspect.
As usual, please bring money if you are interested in chipping in for
takeout but also bring a donation (suggested £2) for the Madlab
itself.

(http://www.facebook.com/events/351783214859893/) link for facebook
group.