Review: Kirby’s Lessons for Falling [in Love] by Laura Gao
When I first stumbled upon Kirby’s Lessons for Falling [in Love] by Laura Gao, I was immediately drawn in by its vibrant cover and the promise of a bold exploration of love in all its messy, unapologetic forms. Little did I know, this graphic novel would become a treasure trove of emotions, a delightful mix of joy and sorrow that left me grinning and teary-eyed in equal measure. The quote, "There ain’t nothing more metal than loving who you want," encapsulates the essence of this story, urging us to embrace love in its most authentic forms.
Let’s dive into the art first, because wow! Gao’s illustrations are a feast for the eyes. Each panel bursts with life—moveable, detailed, and highly expressive. It’s clear that every brushstroke was guided by love and intention. The way characters’ emotions peak through their expressions, paired with clever layouts and witty one-liners, balanced the deeper themes perfectly. The humor never felt forced; it was as though the characters were sharing inside jokes with us, which made the more serious moments all the more poignant.
And poignant they are! Gao doesn’t shy away from heavier themes like grief, anxiety, and insecurities that many of us grapple with. However, rather than feeling overwhelmed, I found comfort in the warmth that threads through Kirby’s journey—almost like having a friend say, “You’re not alone.” One line that particularly resounded with me was, "Insecurity alone is one hell of a drug." It’s a raw acknowledgment of how fear can warp our perception and self-worth, and watching Kirby navigate this landscape felt like a shared experience.
Kirby herself is an incredibly relatable protagonist. Awkward yet courageous, she had me rooting for her from start to finish. Her growth and struggles were deeply moving, and I felt an urge to protect her from the tumult around her. The narrative flows seamlessly between past and present, adding emotional depth, even if at times I felt slightly disoriented. But the payoff is worth it—trust me, that epilogue had me in full-on ugly cry mode, and I couldn’t have been more grateful for it.
The “lessons for falling” at the start of each chapter serve as an ingenious framing device, guiding us through Kirby’s emotional landscape. As someone who has dabbled in bouldering, the notion that sometimes falling is an integral part of the climb felt incredibly relatable. Gao illustrates beautifully that these falls can lead to the most transformative stories.
The supporting cast deserves their moment in the spotlight, too. Characters like Eric, Bex, and Astrid aren’t just side notes; they have their own arcs that intertwine with Kirby’s beautifully. Their found family dynamic felt real and earned, making their interactions some of my favorite moments.
Equally important is the book’s representation. From the tender portrayal of a lesbian romance to the thoughtful depiction of a trans character, Gao covers the spectrum of identities with sincerity and respect. The term "rainbow person" resonated with me, encapsulating the internal and cultural complexities faced by many.
On a personal note, I appreciated the bilingual elements woven into the story. I didn’t mind hopping onto Google Translate every so often; it deepened my connection to Kirby’s cultural identity and made her experience feel all the more authentic.
In conclusion, Kirby’s Lessons for Falling [in Love] is one of those rare gems that beautifully balances tenderness with power. It’s a reminder that love—in its many forms—can help us piece together shattered parts of ourselves. This book is a rich experience for those grappling with their identities or anyone seeking a heartfelt coming-of-age tale. I adored every moment and can’t recommend it enough. If you’re looking for a story that will resonate deeply and leave you reflecting on your own experiences, pick this book up—you won’t regret it!
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