Graphic Novel Review: How Lucky Am I by Christian Watson

By Corina De Armas for Aber Stoat Books

Rating: 10 out of 10

Cover: A

Expressed through the character of an adorable skeleton set against scenic backdrops, the book shares thoughtful perspectives on life’s many ups and downs, highlighting the lessons learned along the way that shape who we become.

“Sometimes, the very best things that happen to us come from our response to the very worst. We learn who we are through the hardships we endure. Our reactions, our responses, the way we answer the call of circumstance—the call of life—show us who we are. Things didn’t work out the way you anticipated, but you’re still here.”

The illustrations are already a big hit on social media. I instantly fell in love with the beautiful artwork and the gentle reminders woven into each piece.

“You are allowed to take up space in this world, you’re allowed to ask for things the way you’d like them to be.”

None of me other than I need another volume asap!

I love the message the author carries throughout these pages—it’s okay to be yourself, and there’s so much beauty in the perspective you bring to the world.

“HOW LUCKY AM I TO BE BROKEN SO THE LIGHT COULD COME IN” (10/10)

Thank you to Christian Watson, Ebury Digital, and NetGalley. I received advance review copies for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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More Titles by Christian Watson

How Luck Am I: A Gratitude Journal (print)

Venture Onward: The Design and Curiosities of 1924us (print)

Publisher: Clarkson Potter | Penguin Random House

ISBN: 9798217036370

128 pages

Categories:

Self-Help / Motivational & Inspirational

Self-Help / Affirmations

Self-Help / Death, Grief, Bereavement

In this poignant, affirming, and beautifully illustrated journey, social media sensation Mr Skelly explores the ups and downs of existence and discovers the makings of a meaningful life.

"How lucky am I, to have lost what I wanted, to find what I deserved"

Join beloved Mr Skelly, a gentle skeleton wandering across lush landscapes and treacherous terrains, through times of joy, loss, grief and love, to find his family and – ultimately – a safe home.

Along the way, he discovers life lessons which help us remember what to hold onto and what to let go of, to realise how lucky we all are, because this beautifully fragile present moment is truly all we have.

Mr Skelly invites you to shift your lens, make peace with what you can’t control, appreciate what can’t be seen, and live your life to the utmost of your ability.

How Lucky Am I is a simple reminder that, in the end, we're all made of the same bones. With gentle words and hand-painted imagery, this book hopes to shine a softer light on what's often overlooked - and maybe, in doing so, help us remember what truly matters.

Author Bio:

From Myrtle Creek, Oregon, animator and designer Christian Watson has longlived by the creed that a person ought to remain a student of many things. Actualizing this, he founded the 1924us studio, a workshop devoted tothoughtful design and the preservation of simpler virtues, talents and fadingskillsets. In 2023, while residing in Tasmania with his wife Elle-May and theirtwo children, he sketched the first likeness of Mr Skelly, a small figure that, tohis surprise, came to hold meaning for millions. Christian writes as he works: with plain earnestness, an eye for the unseen and a belief that even the quietestlife is extraordinary.

His work, as well as his studio, can be found at www.1924.us

Author Residence: Tasmania, Australia

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