Dyke Watch

The Book(s): Dykes to Watch Out For: Split-Level and Dykes and Sundry Other Carbon Based Lifeforms
Author: Alison Bechdel
Publisher: Firebrand Books

TMI Alert: I have a vested investment in the appreciation and acceptance of the GBLT community, partially for my belief in basic human rights but also in the form of my very awesome and brave Grandfather and many awesome friends. I won't turn this into a political entry, as we here all love our comics. But why I felt inclined to explain my reasons to read these books makes me sad. As Alison addressed in her introduction to Dykes and Sundry Other Carbon Based Lifeforms, she shouldn't be narrowed down as an artist catering to the queer community or limiting her readership because she writes stories including lesbians. It's a story, regardless of who it is about. And I totally agree.

The Story: The two (out of eleven) DTWOF books I read followed the tightly interwoven lives of a group of friends consisting of men and women in both home and work environments. The characters vary from cocky and confident Lois at Madwimmin Books to Stuart, a non-profit working man whose dating history shows a man falling for lesbians. The colorful cast of this story reads much like everyday modern adult life dealing with politics, debt, family, work, sex, love, and everything in between.

The Art: Alison has a very clean and consistent style that is laid out in a traditional strip format. It relays emotion without being messy, which can be difficult to accomplish. I particularly enjoyed the way she draws hair, which may be a weird thing to appreciate. But this is my blog entry, not yours, so stuff it.

Overall: If you are into character stories that are engaging to read, check out these books. If you want a preview, check out Alison's blog which is updated with new stories. If you want to read more about the cast, order her books, or learn more about Alison, check out her website.