School Library Journal Review
Gr 8 Up--Feder's tender memoir of coping with a parent's death deftly and sensitively blends joy, anguish, and even whimsy. The author was just 19 when her mother, Rhonda, was diagnosed with stage-four cancer, with little chance of survival. Feder was often away at college while her family oversaw Rhonda's treatment in Florida. During a visit home, Feder was shocked to find Rhonda had taken a turn for the worse, passing away mere days later. Equal parts celebration, reflection, and mourning, this graphic memoir touches on the unpredictable path of grief. Feder shares her experience of navigating death with beauty and raw honesty. At times, the pastel coloring belies the somber moments, but the powder soft pinks also celebrate Feder's memory of Rhonda and emphasize Tyler's youth. The minimal backgrounds center the focus on Feder and her family, and the controlled but loose lines speak to the ever present conflict between Feder's need for stability and the chaos into which she was thrust. The chapters end with illustrated tips, lists, and other quirky yet informative extras. VERDICT Grieving teens will find incredible solace in Feder's story; all readers will be stirred by this wrenching yet uplifting musing. Hand this one to readers who are ready to move past Raina Telgemeier's work and take a step closer to Lucy Knisley's memoirs.--Alea Perez, Elmhurst Public Library, IL
Publisher's Weekly Review
After the author's mother dies of uterine cancer when her oldest daughter is 19, Feder (Unladylike for adults) finds herself longing for something "that cradles my grief without smothering it." Emphasizing the awkward and silly moments surrounding death, she has created the book she wanted to read. Her mom "wasn't some sad sack in a sickbed waiting to die (even when she WAS a sad sack in a sickbed waiting to die)," nor was she a saint, and Feder brings her meaningfully to life. In one of many sweetly evocative scenes, she recalls the intimate surprise of knowing immediately which font her creative mother would have wanted on her own funeral pamphlets. Feder's simple art features light pink backgrounds, a diverse cast of supporting characters, and details that make the story feel real (covered mirrors during the shivah, for example). The so-called pity party is illustrated in charming family scenes and flights of fancy such as "the app I wish existed: Dead Mom" ("Look up any movie to find out if the mom dies in it!"). Until that app exists, this book offers a wealth of perspective about coping with grief. Ages 12--up. Agent: Monica Odom, Odom Media Management. (Apr.)