Flawed

Gr 9 Up—In this graphic memoir based on the short film of the same name, Dorfman looks back on the beginnings of her relationship with her boyfriend Dave. The two started dating when Dorfman was in Halifax, Nova Scotia, one summer, working on a film script. She was conflicted when she learned that Dave was a plastic surgeon, as she had always believed that cosmetic surgery makes people feel flawed. As the relationship deepened, Dorfman reflected on her adolescence. Teased in school over her big nose, she grew up with a negative self-image that carried into adulthood; her connection with Dave forced her to confront her feelings. Eventually, she realized that she was responsible for her happiness and that acceptance of so-called flaws is what makes everyone extraordinary. This is an important story about body positivity, and the keen observations about the societal concepts of beauty will resonate deeply with readers. The work is presented in a storybook format, without frames or panels. The illustrations are vibrant yet vulnerable, conveying the challenges that the author faced in her youth.