sphinx reviewed Qualification: A Graphic Memoir in Twelve Steps (Pantheon Graphic Library) on + 97 more book reviews
Qualification is well-crafted: I made it all the way to the end despite not being incredibly interested in the main character and plot. The storytelling, writing, and drawing are all very good.
I found it hard to connect to the protagonist due to his narcissism and lack of self-awareness, both of which are typical of men in this society (and completely exhausting to have to deal with). It was painful to watch him refuse to connect emotionally with his own partner and children over and over and over again. He attempts endlessly to soothe his inner pain with various unhealthy coping mechanisms that he acts out with the other addicts in the novel, and for someone who understands where the protagonist's problems are originating--childhood--it's tiring to read about someone who just doesn't seem to put two and two together on his own.
Fortunately, there is a happy ending, with David finally finding a competent therapist who helps him develop respect for other people and some insight into his own childhood and emotional pain. I certainly hope Rebecca is doing well and being treated well, as she deserves. I'm kind of surprised she stayed with him.
3/5 stars.
I found it hard to connect to the protagonist due to his narcissism and lack of self-awareness, both of which are typical of men in this society (and completely exhausting to have to deal with). It was painful to watch him refuse to connect emotionally with his own partner and children over and over and over again. He attempts endlessly to soothe his inner pain with various unhealthy coping mechanisms that he acts out with the other addicts in the novel, and for someone who understands where the protagonist's problems are originating--childhood--it's tiring to read about someone who just doesn't seem to put two and two together on his own.
Fortunately, there is a happy ending, with David finally finding a competent therapist who helps him develop respect for other people and some insight into his own childhood and emotional pain. I certainly hope Rebecca is doing well and being treated well, as she deserves. I'm kind of surprised she stayed with him.
3/5 stars.
