Perfect Example

John Porcellino's Perfect Example is exactly what comics need. It's got a sense of emotion and angst and beauty and fun that I frankly wish more people would aspire to instead of trying to be clever. Perfect Example isn't clever -- it's funny, it's genuine, it's beautiful, and it's moving. Check it out if you've ever been (1) sad and didn't know why (2) into skateboarding (3) on an impromptu a road trip (4) into Husker Du (5) a teenager.Plus, I can't speak highly enough of Highwater Books' presentation of the material, originally printed in black and white in John P.'s excellent King-Cat Comics and Stories zine. It's gorgeously put-together with fine paper and multi-colored inks (as with Highwater's also excellent presentation of Brian Ralph's Cave-In). Highwater makes gorgeous books and this is certainly one of their best.One of my favorite comics, I can't speak highly enough of it.

If you've ever been an angst-ridden, depressed teenager with out-of-touch parents, this book will resonate with you. Even if you've only experienced tinges of these things, or had friends who did, Porcellino's book will say something special. It is charmingly illustrated, and nicely written. A well-crafted book. His King-Cat Comics and Stories are worth a look too, if you can find them. Listening to his old Denver band Felt Pilotes while reading this book provides the compleat Porcellino experience.