Every Picture Tells A Story

I just read Daniel Clowes graphic novel Wilson.  Didn't take long.  At 77 pages and not that many words, it can easily be read in a sitting.  (Though at 12 by 9 inches, it's won't fit so easily on a shelf.)

Each page shows a self-contained comic strip, usually six panels, starring the sad-sack Wilson.  Making each feel even more separate, they're done in diferent graphic styles.  But taken as a whole, they tell a story.  Though it's short, it covers a lot of ground--years in the life of the protagonist, as he struggles to make sense of his life.

Wilson is a self-righteous, self-doubting and bitter man who leads a fairly miserable life.  You wouldn't expect anything less from Clowes.  Wilson goes from one unfortunate experiences to another, but he manages to find some meaning.  Or at least tries.  I don't want to give away the whole thing, so check it out yourself.

PS  Looks like Wilson may become an Alexander Payne movie.