After The Spring: Story of Tunisian Youth, from IDW, takes a look at the disillusioned young people of Tunisia, Africa, in the early 2010s.
In the midst of political unrest and economic hardship, four young people are profiled in this graphic novel. Set in both large and small Tunisian centres, the story proceeds chronologically. As Saif, Aziz, Merien, and Cheyma make their way through the uncertainties of the delicate balance of life in Tunisia, we get to understand the dilemmas they face.
After The Spring: Story of Tunisian Youth is written and illustrated by Hélène Aldeguer. Translated for the first time into English, this black and white illustrated book has a very unique and controlled feel. The dialogue is clear and concise. The drawings, for me, are fascinating. Made with line, (little or no halftone throughout) the panels follow a simple grid, in essence, becoming invisible frames. But within the panels are blocks of light and dark, interesting proportions and textures. It’s visually very sophisticated but masquerading as simplicity. Much perhaps like the intricately woven complexity of life in Tunisia.
There is additional background text included in the book, giving depth and analysis to the events of 2013.
IDW, After The Spring: Story of Tunisian Youth, $21.99 for 138 pages of content
Newsdesk