Reality Check: A for Better or for Worse Collection

Another Great book to visit the Patterson's with. "For Better / For Worse" has to be one of the best comic strips of all time. It really makes you think, "They are just like my family", and if you do not have kids, read the books so you know what to prepare for.

Lynn Johnston and Robb Armstrong of "Jump Start" fame are comic geniuses in a class by themselves. No two ways about that. Johnston has created a believeable and appealing family who, unlike most strips contend with controversial issues such as homosexuality; divorce; infidelity; physical challenges; racial issues; crime; death. It is always a treat to read her strip in the daily paper and it makes for something to anticipate daily. Michael, the oldest Patterson child, now married has a child on the way. Readers follow Deanna's pregnancy up to the birth of daughter Meredith Anne. It makes for a riveting story line that is sure to delight most readers and maintain their interest. Middle Patterson child, Elizabeth, now an adult and working towards her teaching degree moves in with her boyfriend, only to discover what a mistake that was. Her way of exacting revenge upon him was funny and resourceful. April, the youngest Patterson child went from obnoxious pain to obnoxious teen and patriarch Grandpa Jim, a delightful character marries a woman whom he meets at a senior citizens' gathering. A truly delightful collection that will not only evoke smiles, but will undoubtedly remind readers of milestones in their own lives.

This, like all the FBorFW books, is fine comfortable family viewing. It is such a shame that everyone who reads it can't see the simple beauty of having a family (though 'fictional')like the Pattersons who really care for each other, their friends and their pets. Some of the other "reviews" I have read of this book seem extremely bitter and anxious to put down those of us who enjoy simple comics and stories of families where no one is on drugs or in prison for a hate crime or murder. If you want "gruesome", go watch TV and leave our Lynn Johnston alone!

I became a fan of FBOFW after reading "Lives Behind the Lines". My favorite aspect of the strip is that, while Johnston generally sticks with chronicalling the so-called "normal, everyday day occurances" of nucular family life, she isn't afraid to write about serious issues. Aside from the well known (and VERY well done) story dealing with Lawrence, Johnston has dealt with such issues as the death of a parent and the ethics of journalism ( when Michael and Weed photographed a vehicle accident, then later learned that Deanna Sobieski had been involved). Lynn continues that tradition in ths book by addressing an issue that I, for one, have NEVER seen addressed in a mainstream, syndicated comic strip - sexual abuse. This story, which involves Elizabeth's roommate Candace, was published in December 2001. As usual, Johnston wrote the story well, and showed a great deal of sensitivity. As a survivor of abuse, this story has alot of meaning to me. Another issue brought up in the book is the fact that Elly's father is showing signs of Alzheimer's. I look forward to seeing how Johnston deals with this.P.S. : As Elizabeth continues her training to become a teacher, I was pleased to FINALLYsee the adition of some First Nations characters. Given that Johnston's strip is both Canadian and, usually multicultural, this omission had always struck me as odd.

I always like seeing a new book by Lynn Johnston. Her comic strips find the humor in everyday things, and I think most of us can relate to at least one of her characters. Her latest book is funny, extremely well-drawn, and continues the adventures of the Pattersons and their friends and relatives. Buy it for the fun and insights that it offers.