I may be in my late thirties but I’m a big kid at heart and still take great pleasure in reading comics, and why not? There’s plenty of adult comics out there and I can completely understand why as adulting ain’t all it’s cracked up to be – it’s far from easy and it’s not all that often that we get the chance to sit down and to enjoy a book, so when we do at last manage to park our backsides on the bed, sofa or wherever we may land, it’s quite the welcome break to be able to enjoy some easy reading and a comic is just that…
Addressing The Unspeakable
I was recently sent John Cei Douglas’s ‘All The Places In Between’ to read and review; a wordless, black and white, silent sequential narrative journey exploring mental health and our sense of self.
John Cei Douglas
John Cei Douglas is a freelance illustrator based in London with a particular interest in stories and comics. John has a narrative approach to illustration, he has worked with various clients and projects throughout the years and has developed a strong, lyrical style to his work, which closely links to the themes of mental health and relationships through picture books, comics and editorial pieces.
All The Places In Between
Published by Liminal 11, All The Places In Between features simplistic, black and white sketches which encapsulate and express the light and shadow of life. This beautiful book empathetically illustrates the common issues that many of us face as we attempt to communicate our thoughts and feelings during tough times.
This beautiful book has quite literally drawn the concept of depression and anxiety, whilst addressing the seemingly endless paths that we try to take in order to get back to the place we think that we should be, and all the obstacles that we encounter along the way through a simple but surprising journey.
‘There are empty spaces that must be respected, those often long periods when a person can’t see the pictures or find the words and needs to be left alone.’ – Tove Jansson, Fair Play
Having struggled with my own mental health over the years, I found this book to be rather refreshing as it silently and subtly addresses a range of thoughts and emotions that many of us will have encountered throughout time yet may not have wished to or have felt able to share.
Purchasing & Pricing Information
All The Places In Between retails at £11.99 and is available to order directly from Liminal 11.
To Summarise
The artwork within ‘All The Places In Between’ may be subtle and simple in style but the message behind the images is self-evident and very straightforward. Art is such a bold and beautiful way in which to express emotions, especially for those who are unable to verbally share such information. ‘All The Places In Between’ is a stunning example of sharing thoughts and feelings through the media of art and is also a quiet, caring and comforting read.
Having read through this book, I would certainly recommend it to those who wish to explore emotions through imagery or those who simply enjoy a quiet, easy, comforting read.
For further information upon All The Places In Between or alternative Liminal 11 publications visit www.liminal11.com
Disclosure: I was sent the above product for the purpose of this post however all opinions are my own.