A delight to read and a sumptuous gala for the heart.
Dad vs. The World (Life Lessons from a UFO Catcher: An Autobiographical Manga) is a witty and intriguing autobiographical manga and the latest offering by award-winning author, Kenny Loui. This graphic novel sheds light on the person who shaped much of Kenny’s formative years, his father. An immersive experience characterized by stunning artwork and thought-provoking themes, this sequel takes us back into the childhood years of the endearing UFO catcher. The book comprises a compilation of fond memories by Kenny in a series of flashbacks describing his father’s hilarious and incessant battles, from well-meaning cops, sluggish snails, a stray cat with apple-stealing skills, and a disgruntled neighbor to befuddled fast food cashiers and an unexpected guest in the bathroom. The more you read about Kenny’s father, the more your admiration for him grows, such as when he gets his son a practical typewriter instead of a computer or purchases Power Ranger toys just to make young Kenny happy. Despite his impetuous attitude and a penchant for digging his heels in on many situations, Kenny’s dad is, as Kenny constantly reminisces, a great father and husband.
Full of warmth and vibrancy, this latest offering by Kenny Loui will enthrall readers of all ages. The mini-stories here are impactful, not only providing escapist entertainment but also offering valuable lessons and successfully evoking your childhood recollections. Manga illustrator Yamawe does a brilliant job capturing the emotions of the characters through anime expressions, compounding this with visually aesthetic slender silhouettes. The detailed backgrounds and effective lighting connect the illustrations to the story, effortlessly compelling readers to look for hidden little details and nuances so as not to miss out on anything. Each story offers substantial comic relief through the characters’ facial expressions, kinetic movement, and the choice of words to amplify the scenes. The result is a juicy gallop of manga that will keep readers turning the pages. Told from Loui’s childhood eyes, his father takes center stage throughout his son’s narration. Dad vs. The World is a delight to read and a sumptuous gala for the heart. Told from the third person narrative, the book offers a realistic portrait of life and will appeal to comic book enthusiasts everywhere.