I have been meaning to read Good-bye, Chunky Rice, a graphic novel by Craig Thompson, since reading one of his other works, Blankets, a couple years back. Whereas Blankets is a personal memoir, Chunky Rice is the sweet story of a turtle who feels compelled to discover what lies beyond the horizon, leaving behind his beloved companion, a mouse named Dandele. Chunky boards a ship manned by a crusty but endearing captain, and works alongside his fellow shipmates, a pair of conjoined sisters. Back on shore, we learn more about the brother of the captain and his pet bird, Merle (who were Chunky’s neighbors).

Each of these characters could justifiably have their own book, and that would probably be my only complaint about this book – it was too short! Thompson has a talent for creating empathetic and interesting characters, whether they be human or animal. I wanted to know more about each and every one of them. A sweet tale of friendship and love in its many forms – it would be a difficult task indeed to read this book and not have it touch your heart.

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