As a series draws to a close, it's often with a heavy heart that we bid adieu to characters who've become, in a sense, our companions. This sentiment rings true for John Allison’s Giant Days, the delightful graphic novel series that captured my heart (and many others, I’m sure) with its genuine portrayal of university life. Bidding farewell to this series feels less like closing a book and more like saying goodbye to a dear friend, but like all good things, it’s better to part ways while the series is still at its peak (You hear that Lost?)
At its core, Giant Days thrives on the fantastic interplay between its ensemble cast of a trio of incredibly likable and quick-witted young women – Daisy, Esther, and Susan – whose distinct personalities and shared experiences form the backbone of the narrative. Their dynamic is nothing short of magic, complemented by a couple of easily identifiable male characters who add further layers to the group's endearing chemistry. It's their collective charm and authentic personalities that make them so wonderful, drawing you into their world with every turn of the page.
One of the series' standout features is its bantery, Whedon-esque wordplay (before Whedon became problematic). The dialogue is sharp, humorous, and always feels natural, perfectly capturing the quirky, often awkward, yet ultimately relatable conversations of young adults navigating their formative years.
Beyond the witty banter, the storylines themselves are incredibly identifiable, echoing the universal experiences of late teens finding their way through the myriad challenges and triumphs of university life – from academic anxieties and romantic entanglements to the everyday absurdities of dorm living.
What truly sets Giant Days apart, and what lingers long after the final page, is its poignant ending. The series concludes with a flash-forward, allowing us a glimpse into the ladies' lives a year on, settled into their respective jobs. This glimpse offers a dose of bittersweet realism, starkly contrasting the successes and recognition often found within the insulated world of university. It's a raw, honest look at the real cruelties of life after graduation, demonstrating how even the most brilliant and promising individuals can find themselves chewed out by the corporate machine and the relentless pace of big city life. It's a testament to the series' depth that it doesn't shy away from this challenging transition, grounding its vibrant characters in a reality that resonates deeply.
In a landscape often saturated with ongoing series, Giant Days stands as a shining example of how to conclude a story gracefully. Its decision to wrap things up while still delivering top-tier quality ensures it avoids the common pitfalls of decline and diluted storytelling that can plague longer-running narratives. It's a series that will be missed, but fondly remembered for its humor, heart, and its honest, charming portrayal of friendship and growing up.
LINK- The Rise of Retro Gaming During Covid
LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East
LINK- Blood, Sweat and Pixels- Book Review
LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review
LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art