Member Reviews
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and Theo Parish for a review copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
I really liked this. I think it will resonate with a lot of teens, regardless of how they identify or if they're making a journey of self-discovery. The illustrations were great, even if making the metaphor of being at home in your own body literal is a really weird flex. Also really liked the intermittent use of color for some of the more profound moments.
Loved the message of learning how to love yourself, even if that's a slow process that might not always feel as monumental at any given moment. I don't think that the reader needs to identify with being nonbinary to identify with not feeling comfortable with themselves, or the process to eventually become comfortable as a human.
Can't wait to see it in print!
(Cross-posted to Goodreads)
I thought this was a very relatable and great read. Similar to Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe, but unique in the way that each person's relationship with gender is. It's always nice to be able to read about people who have had similar experiences and know that you're not alone.
Thank you to NetGalley for making this available in exchange for an honest review!
Easy, empathetic, and informative read for most ages. Homebody does a great job explaining not only the life of being transgender and nonbinary, but also all of the thoughts, feelings, and outside influences that many members of the LGBTQIA+ go through. I think this would be a great introduction to kids and honestly even for adults that are struggling to understand. The graphics are beautiful and there were multiple times I teared up reading this. Highly recommend
I will definitely be purchasing this book for my library. It is giving off Tillie Walden meets Alice Oseman vibes and I loved every second of it. It is a great graphic novel.
I loved every minute of reading this! The illustrations were wonderful, and the biography of the artist hit home in a lot of ways! (No pun intended!) A fantastic addition to LGBTQIA+ shelves and lists. I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy!!
Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"Theo Parish's "Homebody" is a profound and beautifully crafted graphic novel that offers an intimate glimpse into the journey of self-discovery and acceptance. This memoir, which marks Parish's comics debut, skillfully combines traditional comics with journal-like interludes, taking readers through the myriad experiences of a nonbinary person navigating the complexities of high school, gender identity, and sexuality.
The narrative is both intimate and universally relatable, delving into Theo's personal struggles and triumphs in finding a home within themselves. The exploration of gender binary rules and the emotional journey towards the realization and acceptance of being nonbinary is handled with sensitivity and insight. Parish's storytelling is honest and reflective, resonating with anyone who has ever grappled with their identity.
The graphic novel format is used to great effect, with the visuals adding a powerful dimension to the narrative. The artwork complements the text, conveying emotions and experiences in ways that words alone cannot. The blend of traditional comics and journal entries creates a dynamic and engaging reading experience, making complex themes more accessible and relatable.
"Homebody" is not just a story about gender identity; it's a reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and the courage it takes to embrace one's true self. Parish's voice throughout the book is clear and reassuring, offering hope and affirmation to those who may be questioning or exploring their own identity.
However, readers unfamiliar with graphic novels or those expecting a more traditional memoir may need time to adjust to the format. The book's focus on personal experiences and introspection, while powerful, might not appeal to those seeking a more action-driven narrative.
Content warnings for themes of gender identity, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating high school as a nonbinary individual are appropriate. The book will appeal most to readers interested in LGBTQIAP+ stories, particularly those who enjoy graphic novels and memoirs about personal growth and identity.
In conclusion, "Homebody" by Theo Parish is a heartfelt, insightful, and visually striking graphic novel that offers a window into the journey of discovering and accepting one's gender identity. Its honest storytelling and unique format make it a valuable and compelling read for anyone interested in exploring the nuances of identity and self-acceptance.
I loved every single thing about this graphic novel! It is important to have stories like this so that everyone has the opportunity to see themselves in a book, no matter how they identify.
Theo weaved this story which such great quotes that just stuck with me! I felt their struggle throughout the story and was cheering for them the whole time. Every person should feel free to be authentically themselves and not be judged. I can't imagine how I would feel trying to get my haircut and being pressured into something more "feminine" when all I wanted was short.
Bravo to Theo for this story on how we all have a journey to find homes in ourselves!
A wonderfully illustrated memoir about the author, Theo Parish's, journey to feeling at home with themself through gender identity and sexuality. The book meanders through the everyday moments that led up to them coming out as nonbinary and to discovering their name, Theo. I found a lot of similarities between myself and the author and it was very reassuring to read about another person who enjoys the journey rather than the destination.
I am so glad I was able to read this book early. Homebody beautifully explores learning about and embracing one's identity. The artwork represents the story perfectly, especially with the body as a house image. The author does a wonderful job sharing their story, while sharing the research they did on trans and non-binary individuals. Following Theo on their journey through the book brought joyful moments as we the reader get to see their journey to feel more right in their body. I definitely want to buy this book for the school library and recommend it to students.
A beautiful illustration style for a beautiful story. The story was candid and relatable, and it was so special to get this peek into Theo’s journey towards feeling at home in their body.
I liked the graphic nature of this book and how the author demonstrated their journey to finding their "home." I also liked how this book, and many other books of the same nature, show that everyone's journey is different and there is no set path.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Alley for the eARC of this title. I picked this up because the art style called to me. I didn't read a synopsis at all before reading it, so it was a pleasant surprise to find it was my dream book. Ever since N.D Stevenson's "The Fire Never Goes Out" I have been looking for something similar but focused on gender. Maia Kobabe's "Gender Queer" is an amazing book but it wasn't exactly the vibe I was looking for. "Homebody" married what I loved about both of those titles, and made me feel so incredibly seen. There are multiple pages that I wish I could have full-sized prints of to hang in my home. I am so excited to add this to the library's collection when it comes out. I know this will be important to many others.
A heartwarming and beautiful story about the journey of discovering your identity and the path to identifying as nonbinary. Theo Parrish is learning about their identity, they are trying to find out what they identify as and what they feel most comfortably represents who they are. This was such a touching story and this book would be a wonderful one for people trying to discover their own identities to read.
*Thanks Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books, HarperAlley for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*