A review by crystalisreading
Animal Crackers by Gene Luen Yang

4.0

I have no idea how to categorize this story, other than graphic novel. Like, and even more so than, American Born Chinese, there's strong elements of the fantastical in the story. And yet there's also a sense of strong grounding in reality, especially the harsh realities of high school. So even though the story is at some points so fantastical as to seem silly, it also feels REAL. and that's quite an accomplishment. it's especially an accomplishment how the author works philosophical and religious considerations into the story without seeming preachy or didactic. Saint Danger made some points I've thought of in the past (and felt guilty for thinking with my tender, humanitarian heart), but he takes it to that inevitable conclusion that is so horrifying to most humans. and then the author, through Loyola, spins that concept around on its head. Totally caught me by surprise...and delighted me. It's not a perspective I get often in the graphic novel and fantasy worlds, and I really appreciated it. I'll definitely be seeking out more work by Gene Luen Yang. Keep them coming!