Parable of the Sower (graphic novel) - Octavia Butler

⭐ 8.0/10

(Originally written by Magdalene)

I read the graphic novel version of this book, which was a neat experience. The original was written in the early 90s, I think, but this was just released this year. It was my first time reading it, but I felt like the art style matched Butler's writing perfectly. One thing the illustrations did was show how bleak this story is.

It's the near future and Americans are living in a post-apocalyptic world, because of course they are. (They do mention that Canada is much better off!) Chaos, danger, drugs, violence, no water, all of that. Lauren lives with her family in a walled community, but she knows it can't last and is trying to convince everyone to leave. And then looters come and attack the community and HER WHOLE FAMILY DIES. Lauren finds some people and they start making their way north, and Lauren forms her own beliefs on God and kind of tries to start a new religion. 

Almost nothing good or happy happens in this whole book, and that's one reason why I'm glad I went with the graphic novel instead, because at least I suffered for a shorter amount of time. It is about resilience and maintaining your humanity amidst so much violence and destruction, as well as clinging to hope. I'm not sure what I think yet about Lauren's Earthseed theories ("God is change"), but it was interesting seeing her form her own religion because of what she was experiencing. The writing and art are both amazing, but the book is mostly a big bummer. I think I need some nice middle grade fiction after this.