The Drawing Lesson

It is so cool sad and happy

This is a graphic novel, it is a book on drawing, and it is a touching story and tribute to the author's mentor. The author was inspired by his teacher and this book tries to be that teacher to you. Even though you are supposed to read the little vignette and do the exercise at the end of each chapter, my girlfriend nearly read it in one sitting, and then finished it when I bought the print version. She said she found the tips immediately applicable and some essential tips (like negative space) and myths (like drawing from reality is not real drawing) are presented in memorable ways because of the story format. The drawing instruction is modern (post "Drawing on the Right Side"/"Keys to Drawing") methodology and less "classical" (drawing basic shapes and shading and building up from there). So, if you have a strong analytical bent, this instruction will help you overcome your symbol thinking, but if you are naturally more free-form, lateral then you may not get as much from this approach. The only minus is that it is digital. For things that are so visual like a graphic novel, it is nicer to have a print version, especially because it is easy to keep on the coffee table or lend to friends. However, since the instruction is short, room on a limited physical bookshelf may be better left for something that could be a reference you may come back to again and again. This is not that.