How to Love

September 15, 2023
An illustrated guide to love, feelings, and relationships that originally launched as a WEBTOON comic. Written from a much-needed queer perspective that invites in readers of all genders and orientations, the book features chapters that each present a different question about relationships: for example, "How do I know how fast or slow to take things?" and "Can I be friends with my ex?" The focus isn't on providing perfectly correct answers but on prompting readers to think about what the answer is for them. The importance of respecting one's own values while also engaging in honest, introspective self-questioning is a pervasive theme. The book celebrates individual differences, acknowledges different types of loneliness, challenges assumptions around gender and sexuality, and encourages unique expressions of love. Open and clear communication in friendships as well as romantic relationships is also emphasized. In fact, Norris highlights the value of friendship by criticizing phrases like "more than friends," which implies that friendship is less significant than romance, "despite good friendships being just as likely to be intense, enjoyable, and long-lasting." Readers are also reminded of the importance of self-love and warned about exciting but ultimately toxic relationships. At times hilarious and at others just embarrassingly accurate, the book feels like a warm hug. The unshaded, candy-colored, geometric illustrations are simple, yet they still manage to celebrate diversity and inclusion. Refreshing, funny, and comforting. (Graphic nonfiction. 13-18)

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January 12, 2024

Gr 9 Up-It's not easy for people of any age to face their emotions, but it's especially difficult for teenagers. While navigating the world around them, they're often confused by their emerging feelings. Seeing relationships portrayed in TV shows, movies, and social media only adds to unrealistic expectations. Norris's inviting comics deconstruct the world of feelings and relationships in a way that's accessible to all teens. Starting from the basics, they explore the universal desire to connect to another human and stresses the importance of loving oneself before being able to fully commit to another. Other areas touched upon are the act of falling in love, how to handle awkward interactions, decoding mixed signals from potential partners, dealing with jealousy, and how to move on after a breakup. Though the author tackles serious topics, their drawings are lighthearted and uplifting. The bright colors and whimsical characters add to the allure. Detailing specific hypothetical conversations, they use humor to diffuse uncomfortable situations so that readers will be able to internalize the messages with ease. Highlighting all types of relationships, the graphics are inclusive and inviting. VERDICT A joyful, substantive look at the feelings and emotions that go along with romantic relationships. Recommended for all high school libraries.-Karin Greenberg

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