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How to Completely Lose Your Mind: A Graphic Novel Memoir of One Indie Band's Attempt to Break a World Record
“As a touring musician, I absolutely adored this heartfelt, honest, and beautifully illustrated account of the unique pitfalls and victories of DIY touring.” ― Tommy Siegel , cartoonist and guitarist/singer in Jukebox the Ghost #1 New Release in Biographies and History Graphic Novels From the indie band Pocket Vinyl and the artists behind the documentary Drive. Play. Sleep. and the popular webcomic The Touring Test , this hilarious artists’ graphic novel memoir chronicles a couple’s road trip across the USA as they break a world record. A world record smashing music tour through 50 States in 45 Days. Together, Eric Stevenson and Elizabeth Jancewicz perform as the band Pocket Vinyl, where Eric slams on the piano and sings while Elizabeth creates a large oil painting on stage. In these artists’ graphic novel, watch as they take on their biggest challenge to tour the whole nation in just 45 days, breaking the record for the fastest time a band has played in all 50 U.S. states. A wild road trip of performance highs, self-doubt lows, and determination. As co-author Elizabeth Janceqicz says, “I knew that embarking on such a monstrous adventure would provide me with stories to tell, but I hadn't realized how much those stories would change me... In retrospect, we learned so about how our art helps people, how interconnected we all are, and how easily our minds can descend into mental illness without us even realizing it’s happening.” Inside If you liked It's Lonely at the Centre of the Earth , Marbles , or Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant? you'll love How to Completely Lose Your Mind .
296 pages, Paperback
Published October 10, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 4, 2023
I watched Elizabeth pour her heart and soul into this book, putting in 50 to 60 hours a week to complete this 300 page graphic novel within a year. She focused on every line, every curve, every caricature, every scene. She dissected the jokes, plot points, character arcs, and emotional pivots over and over again. I have never seen a human put more of themselves into their work than when Elizabeth worked on this.
When we got the first box of copies at our house, Elizabeth burst into tears while opening them up. I've never seen her react this way. We've self-published books, and done a few zines with small publishers, but this was the first nationally published book she's made. She told me that since reading Calvin and Hobbes as a child, flipping through book and book of Peanuts, and exploring the worlds of indie comics as a teen, she's always dreamed on joining their ranks. Of having her own book. Of being a published author.
I did co-write this book with her, but it's really Elizabeth's book. She is an absolutely amazing artist and dynamic storyteller.
If you get the pleasure of reading this work, that love she submerged it in will be obvious. You're going to love it.
When we got the first box of copies at our house, Elizabeth burst into tears while opening them up. I've never seen her react this way. We've self-published books, and done a few zines with small publishers, but this was the first nationally published book she's made. She told me that since reading Calvin and Hobbes as a child, flipping through book and book of Peanuts, and exploring the worlds of indie comics as a teen, she's always dreamed on joining their ranks. Of having her own book. Of being a published author.
I did co-write this book with her, but it's really Elizabeth's book. She is an absolutely amazing artist and dynamic storyteller.
If you get the pleasure of reading this work, that love she submerged it in will be obvious. You're going to love it.
August 13, 2023
I was introduced to Pocket Vinyl in 2018 and have loved their art and music ever since. This graphic novel reminded me of exactly why I love them. Not only are Elizabeth and Eric both incredibly talented, but they are also so down to earth. The art they put out into the world makes so much of an impact on the people who experience it—this graphic novel included. I watched their journey to break the world record for fastest time a band has played in all 50 states online, but seeing it from their perspective was emotional and exciting. There were parts of the story that were so raw and authentic, things you don’t always see as a fan. Seeing the challenges they faced (both internally and externally) and how they persevered as a team was touching.
The illustrations and storytelling were fantastic to say the least. I found myself giggling during some moments, tearing up during other moments, and often spending lots of time looking at all of the small details on a single page. The emotions captured on each page were depicted perfectly. I found that this graphic novel was hard to put down once I started reading.
Overall, regardless of whether you are a current fan or have never heard of Pocket Vinyl, Its worth the read. If not for the beautiful visuals or engaging storytelling, then simply to see that there are other people in the world who are navigating the world just like you.
I plan to read this a couple more times and then pass it on for the next lucky reader and will be buying a copy for myself when it is officially released. It is absolutely worth it!
The illustrations and storytelling were fantastic to say the least. I found myself giggling during some moments, tearing up during other moments, and often spending lots of time looking at all of the small details on a single page. The emotions captured on each page were depicted perfectly. I found that this graphic novel was hard to put down once I started reading.
Overall, regardless of whether you are a current fan or have never heard of Pocket Vinyl, Its worth the read. If not for the beautiful visuals or engaging storytelling, then simply to see that there are other people in the world who are navigating the world just like you.
I plan to read this a couple more times and then pass it on for the next lucky reader and will be buying a copy for myself when it is officially released. It is absolutely worth it!
October 18, 2023
Shout-out to Pocket Vinyl! This book rocks! I loved it a LOT. Five stars!☝️ Cover art's great, and the book was 🤩. U gotta try it!!!!!!! I also went 2 a show, and got an Mp2 and dis BOOK! Pocket Vinyl da 🐐S
February 27, 2024
A cute, charming, and repetitive look at what it's like to be in a very small, modestly successful band. The repetitive part largely stems from the book's narrative drive, in which the two-member band (one of whom is actual a painter) attempt to play a gig in every state over the course of 45 days.
Not surprisingly, it's an exhausting affair, particularly as the finish line nears. You certainly do feel for Elizabeth and Eric, the heartwarming couple at the center of the band/book. They're trying so hard! And they're so nice! And other people are also very nice!
I'm sure life imitates art here as the many, many small concerts in strange dive bars, tiny bookstores, and empty coffee shops begin to blend together - for both the reader and the band members. Fortunately, there's a big finale and a surprising coda. All told, though, How to Completely Lose Your Mind is maybe just a little too...nice. You want Elizabeth and Eric to achieve their goal, and then they do, and there's very little question of like, so why did you try so hard anyway?
Not surprisingly, it's an exhausting affair, particularly as the finish line nears. You certainly do feel for Elizabeth and Eric, the heartwarming couple at the center of the band/book. They're trying so hard! And they're so nice! And other people are also very nice!
I'm sure life imitates art here as the many, many small concerts in strange dive bars, tiny bookstores, and empty coffee shops begin to blend together - for both the reader and the band members. Fortunately, there's a big finale and a surprising coda. All told, though, How to Completely Lose Your Mind is maybe just a little too...nice. You want Elizabeth and Eric to achieve their goal, and then they do, and there's very little question of like, so why did you try so hard anyway?
August 13, 2023
I've known about Pocket Vinyl thanks to my fiance and I's friend Jonas since 2018, and have met and talked with Eric and Elizabeth 3 times over the course of 5 separate shows we've seen the two of them at. Having personally had a dream since I was around 16 of being a touring musician, this book kind of impacted me in a very specific way. While certainly not making me want to give up on said dream, it certainly has made me reconsider the "full time + touring" aspect of it.
Elizabeth's art is absolutely adorable and audibly made my fiance and I laugh out loud on more than one occasion as well as shared disheartenment for our favorite indie duo in Alabama, Eric having a total chracter break at a heckler, Elizabeth having a blackout, and seeing the process of what happened with Dr. Perriwinkle AFTER the tour had concluded! As someone who feels like I'm going insane at roughly the 4 hour mark of driving that hit different too and the overwhelmed feelings they were expierecing... good lord.
Highly, highly recommend reading this yourself with a cup of coffee (sorry Eric, it's delicious) for an honestly emotional ride and someone genuinely entertaining moments! My fiance and I are absolutely going to be picking up our own copies to support them
Elizabeth's art is absolutely adorable and audibly made my fiance and I laugh out loud on more than one occasion as well as shared disheartenment for our favorite indie duo in Alabama, Eric having a total chracter break at a heckler, Elizabeth having a blackout, and seeing the process of what happened with Dr. Perriwinkle AFTER the tour had concluded! As someone who feels like I'm going insane at roughly the 4 hour mark of driving that hit different too and the overwhelmed feelings they were expierecing... good lord.
Highly, highly recommend reading this yourself with a cup of coffee (sorry Eric, it's delicious) for an honestly emotional ride and someone genuinely entertaining moments! My fiance and I are absolutely going to be picking up our own copies to support them
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
4.5 stars
This book is refreshingly genuine and kind throughout every page and made me feel deeply connected to the members of Pocket Vinyl - you can just tell they're wonderful people. I became really inspired to reach for my own dreams and find myself more as an artist while reading this - this was a wonderful thing to experience and something I look for in graphic novels. It was really hard for me to put this book down and I'm so glad I picked it up solely because I recognized the art from webcomics.
Go Pocket Vinyl, world record breakers!!
This book is refreshingly genuine and kind throughout every page and made me feel deeply connected to the members of Pocket Vinyl - you can just tell they're wonderful people. I became really inspired to reach for my own dreams and find myself more as an artist while reading this - this was a wonderful thing to experience and something I look for in graphic novels. It was really hard for me to put this book down and I'm so glad I picked it up solely because I recognized the art from webcomics.
Go Pocket Vinyl, world record breakers!!
November 15, 2023
Our library received an advanced readers copy of this book. If you are not familiar with The Touring Test comics on Instagram, or the band Pocket Vinyl (also has an Instagram page), this graphic novel follows Elizabeth and her husband Eric as they try to play a show in every state in the United States in less than 50 days. It shows the struggles and fun times of trying to support yourselves as artists: how to find and book shows, how to make enough merchandise, how to find inexpensive or free places to stay, and how to feed yourselves for very little money. With humor and honesty, this graphic novel shows life on the road, and how we all need support of friends and strangers in this world.
September 3, 2023
I just could not put this wonderful graphic novel down. I have been a big fan of the band Pocket Vinyl as well as Elizabeth’s art and The Touring Test comic for quite a while. I saw them on the tour that this book documents and the novel really digs into the highs and lows that such an intense undertaking can yield. The story is easy to follow and presents each stage in a very fun and conversational way. Musicians and artists will completely relate to so much, but so will anyone else. There is a lot of info that universal to all people. You really get to know Eric and Elizabeth and want them to succeed. I highly recommend this book!!
October 11, 2023
I loved following along with the original journey to beat the world record for the fastest tour of all 50 states. It was obviously a labour of love and one depicted beautifully in this amazing graphic novel.
There is so much heart in this book. From its creators, from their loved ones, and from the family, friends, and fans along the way.
Congrats on the successful tour and climbing the mountain as well as publishing this work of heart.
Highly recommend listening to the music alongside your read 💞
https://pocketvinyl.bandcamp.com/albu...
There is so much heart in this book. From its creators, from their loved ones, and from the family, friends, and fans along the way.
Congrats on the successful tour and climbing the mountain as well as publishing this work of heart.
Highly recommend listening to the music alongside your read 💞
https://pocketvinyl.bandcamp.com/albu...
February 26, 2024
I heard about this memoir from Sophie Lucido Johnson's mailing list. I absolutely loved it! What an adventure and what a beautiful reminder about the power of community and human kindness.
August 19, 2023
Full Transparency - I did receive an advanced copy of this book in exchange for promos/reviews.
That said, I genuinely enjoyed this book. I practically ate it, having read it in two sittings. It has so so so much heart, and a nonbinary Toyota Camry that is also a doctor (unclear if MD or PHD). It tugged at my little artist heartstrings and managed to never veer into corny territory, which is quite the accomplishment considering so much of the book is about the importance of believing in yourself and having others believe in you.
I only find it lacking in that so much of the audience told Pocket Vinyl they were "counting on" them to complete their world record tour, but they never elaborated much on why or how these people were so invested. I would have liked to see more of that, but I also understand that as a graphic memoir, the story is going to reflect Pocket Vinyl's experience, not their fans'. They did have a great visual at the end of the book, that was a callback to the first chapter, showing how their friends, family, and fans helped them accomplish their goal, and my heartstrings were again, tugged.
Anyway, this book is a testament that no man (or band) is an island.
That said, I genuinely enjoyed this book. I practically ate it, having read it in two sittings. It has so so so much heart, and a nonbinary Toyota Camry that is also a doctor (unclear if MD or PHD). It tugged at my little artist heartstrings and managed to never veer into corny territory, which is quite the accomplishment considering so much of the book is about the importance of believing in yourself and having others believe in you.
I only find it lacking in that so much of the audience told Pocket Vinyl they were "counting on" them to complete their world record tour, but they never elaborated much on why or how these people were so invested. I would have liked to see more of that, but I also understand that as a graphic memoir, the story is going to reflect Pocket Vinyl's experience, not their fans'. They did have a great visual at the end of the book, that was a callback to the first chapter, showing how their friends, family, and fans helped them accomplish their goal, and my heartstrings were again, tugged.
Anyway, this book is a testament that no man (or band) is an island.
September 13, 2023
This was so lovely! The illustrations are delightful and the story is sweet and wholesome. I read it in two parts in one day, and that was only because I had to work in the middle. I could have happily read it all the way through. The ARC was on the shelf in this hostel and I am glad I picked it up. I’ll have to look up the music and paintings now…
August 23, 2023
Good grief, where to start...
As an insanely busy human with a lot on her plate at any given time of day, sitting down to read *any* book is often relegated to wishful thinking and snippets here and there. This book, however, proceeded to hijack my brain, heart, and sleeping hours for two days until the last line was read. I laughed. I empathized. I got SO. ANGRY. And page 291 made me bawl like a baby. I can't encourage any reader enough to pick up this book and buckle up for the ride, because it truly is a glimpse into what seems to be one of the most life-changing events someone could experience.
Having known Elizabeth since college, it is mind-boggling to me how much we have changed since those simpler days. I am honored to have been a staunch supporter of Pocket Vinyl (with the 1,000th painting proudly displayed on my wall), and an even bigger supporter of Eric and Elizabeth's journey, lifestyle, and overall endeavor to be just about the nicest humans I have ever known. Also, they have ridiculously adorable cats. Bonus points!
As an insanely busy human with a lot on her plate at any given time of day, sitting down to read *any* book is often relegated to wishful thinking and snippets here and there. This book, however, proceeded to hijack my brain, heart, and sleeping hours for two days until the last line was read. I laughed. I empathized. I got SO. ANGRY. And page 291 made me bawl like a baby. I can't encourage any reader enough to pick up this book and buckle up for the ride, because it truly is a glimpse into what seems to be one of the most life-changing events someone could experience.
Having known Elizabeth since college, it is mind-boggling to me how much we have changed since those simpler days. I am honored to have been a staunch supporter of Pocket Vinyl (with the 1,000th painting proudly displayed on my wall), and an even bigger supporter of Eric and Elizabeth's journey, lifestyle, and overall endeavor to be just about the nicest humans I have ever known. Also, they have ridiculously adorable cats. Bonus points!
November 29, 2023
A beautiful graphic memoir documenting Pocket Vinyl's (look them up) world record tour. This book took me far too long to pick up, and when I did, I couldn't put it down. The heart and passion of Elizabeth and Eric is evident on every page.
As far as memoirs go, this one does exactly what it says on the tin- it's a documentary account of an extremely stressful and rewarding tour, with a good few little "how tos" thrown in the middle! The artwork is brilliant, and fans of The Touring Test will absolutely love it! Overall, I only wish there was more in it. There were sections that jumped aroind a bit and broke the flow of the reading, but the fourth-wall-breaking "how to" segments were breaths of fresh air along the way - the "How to Accept a Compliment" bit was particularly resonant.
This story was so refreshing in so many ways, from the kindness shown by friends and strangers alike to the companionship and support evidenced by Elizabeth and Eric throughout. A heartfelt and fun story, and a recommended read for anyone that enjoys life and music!
As far as memoirs go, this one does exactly what it says on the tin- it's a documentary account of an extremely stressful and rewarding tour, with a good few little "how tos" thrown in the middle! The artwork is brilliant, and fans of The Touring Test will absolutely love it! Overall, I only wish there was more in it. There were sections that jumped aroind a bit and broke the flow of the reading, but the fourth-wall-breaking "how to" segments were breaths of fresh air along the way - the "How to Accept a Compliment" bit was particularly resonant.
This story was so refreshing in so many ways, from the kindness shown by friends and strangers alike to the companionship and support evidenced by Elizabeth and Eric throughout. A heartfelt and fun story, and a recommended read for anyone that enjoys life and music!
December 26, 2023
I finished this book in a single day. Not because it is short or because it is a simple read, but because it is so engaging that I couldn’t put it down.
There may be some bias here, because I am Elizabeth’s brother, but I love the book.
I had followed their progress across the country as best as I could while it was happening, but social media algorithms being what they are, I didn’t really know the whole story of what it happened.
I have done several cross country trips of my own, and I was surprised to learn all of the places that we had visited that were in common. The anxieties of sleeping in new spaces. The stress of having to work while traveling.
This is fundamentally an adventure book. It has all of the hallmarks of one. But it does not shy away from the personal toll that it takes. The guilt and worry of accepting charity. It lays the mental stresses and difficulties of accomplishing something great.
It’s a beautiful book. And I can’t recommend it enough.
There may be some bias here, because I am Elizabeth’s brother, but I love the book.
I had followed their progress across the country as best as I could while it was happening, but social media algorithms being what they are, I didn’t really know the whole story of what it happened.
I have done several cross country trips of my own, and I was surprised to learn all of the places that we had visited that were in common. The anxieties of sleeping in new spaces. The stress of having to work while traveling.
This is fundamentally an adventure book. It has all of the hallmarks of one. But it does not shy away from the personal toll that it takes. The guilt and worry of accepting charity. It lays the mental stresses and difficulties of accomplishing something great.
It’s a beautiful book. And I can’t recommend it enough.
October 22, 2023
I loved being able to follow Elizabeth and Eric on their record-breaking tour! Pocket Vinyl’s art, music, stage show, and tour tales are perfectly captured in the graphic novel medium. I was continuously engaged with the story thanks to the excellent pacing, focus, and evocative interpretation of the emotional highs and lows. Even those who aren’t familiar with Pocket Vinyl will enjoy a wholesome journey of partners overcoming insurmountable setbacks driven by their passion, support for each other, and the generosity of friends and strangers. This is a one-of-a-kind book by a one-of-a-kind pair of artists!
February 14, 2024
Elizabeth and Eric are Pocket Vinyl, an experimental indie band that makes music and art during their performances. In 2019 they set out to break a world record by performing 50 shows in all 50 different states in only 45 days. This is their story of that crazy tour, of their ups and downs, their setbacks and triumphs, and all the wonderful support they received along the way.
This was a delightful graphic novel memoir that really captures the joys and anxieties of doing a big tour as an indie band, and how much help basic kindnesses can be.
This was a delightful graphic novel memoir that really captures the joys and anxieties of doing a big tour as an indie band, and how much help basic kindnesses can be.
January 19, 2024
This was so good! I've been fan/friends with Elizabeth and Eric for years and have always felt overwhelmed by their talents and personalities. They feel so friendly and personable to be as...famous?...as they are, and they are way too talented to not be even more...famous? Notorious? The music and art are always spectacular, but I didn't anticipate feeling all these FEELINGS while reading a graphic novel, too!
February 1, 2024
I loved this. It made me feel good about humanity.
February 12, 2024
What an adventure!
January 10, 2025
As a musician and artist (who gets very anxious about performing in front of others), the sheer fact that the premise behind this graphic novel is REAL is dumbfounding to me - in a good way, of course! The authors of this book have a lot of courage and strength to go on such a mind-boggling journey.
The premise is for sure the most exciting thing about the story. The art is also great, and you can tell the artist/author has so much experience in her craft (like dang, those glimpses of the first painting done in CT are incredible)! However, my problem with this book - and maybe this is a good thing - is that it left me wanting MORE.
This is especially true when it comes to the story’s narration. The introspective comments about the tour added emotional depth and flavor to the monotony of the sometimes monotonous pacing/format, and it would have been great to see it more consistently shown. And even with the how-to tutorials, I feel like there was still a lot more to say about the touring life and how the band deals with it. But at the same time, I do understand that Pocket Vinyl already has several projects more suited toward commentating on that, so it doesn’t bother me that much.
Kind of tying in with the pacing thing I was talking about, I also wish that the chapters themselves had a clearer structure with a bit more trimmed off. I understand the point of this graphic novel is supposed to be accurate and acknowledge everyone who helped PV, but it sometimes takes a toll on the story when there are so many named characters introduced and little side quests.
But hey, overall, it’s a great story! This graphic novel is a perfect example of two people (+ a car) extremely dedicated to their craft. It’s nice that they broke the record not to be official, but to climb the mountain. The fanbase also sounds sweet as well, and it makes me want to hop on the PV train. I’m quite the music nerd, so I might check their catalog out. Their latest album looks pretty promising!! :D
The premise is for sure the most exciting thing about the story. The art is also great, and you can tell the artist/author has so much experience in her craft (like dang, those glimpses of the first painting done in CT are incredible)! However, my problem with this book - and maybe this is a good thing - is that it left me wanting MORE.
This is especially true when it comes to the story’s narration. The introspective comments about the tour added emotional depth and flavor to the monotony of the sometimes monotonous pacing/format, and it would have been great to see it more consistently shown. And even with the how-to tutorials, I feel like there was still a lot more to say about the touring life and how the band deals with it. But at the same time, I do understand that Pocket Vinyl already has several projects more suited toward commentating on that, so it doesn’t bother me that much.
Kind of tying in with the pacing thing I was talking about, I also wish that the chapters themselves had a clearer structure with a bit more trimmed off. I understand the point of this graphic novel is supposed to be accurate and acknowledge everyone who helped PV, but it sometimes takes a toll on the story when there are so many named characters introduced and little side quests.
But hey, overall, it’s a great story! This graphic novel is a perfect example of two people (+ a car) extremely dedicated to their craft. It’s nice that they broke the record not to be official, but to climb the mountain. The fanbase also sounds sweet as well, and it makes me want to hop on the PV train. I’m quite the music nerd, so I might check their catalog out. Their latest album looks pretty promising!! :D
October 12, 2023
I intended to read this book in segments over a few days, but after opening it up when it came in the mail, I COULDN'T put it down.
It's hard to pinpoint what makes it engaging enough to be a 5-star graphic novel. I think the pace is the highlight. I remember at times laughing out loud and at other times feeling incredibly anxious, and many times feeling heart warmed. The timing with which these moods are delivered inside the narrative that gives this book that can't-put-it-down level of engaging.
The art is on par with what you might expect from what is sort of a "feature length" presentation of Elizabeth's "Touring Test" comic strip. The published book format allows her to draw some large-panel artwork. This is utilized to draw some scenic vistas from the tour that this story follows, and a few other purposes.
The "How-to" gimmick is utilized with perfect timing throughout the book as a framing narrative. Eric and Elizabeth knew exactly when and how to incorporate it to make me want to keep reading "one more chapter".
Despite being a story of a cross-country tour, Eric and Elizabeth manage to find a way to include a big staple of the Touring Test: Cats! (And other cute animals). If you read The Touring Test just for the cats, you might be disappointed that there are less cats and more depictions of touring life, but you might be pleasantly surprised at the amount of cats (and other cute animals) manage to show up on the road.
That might be all I have to say.
Artwork: 5 stars
If you're familiar with The Touring Test, you'll know what to expect.
Plot: 4 stars
It's a true story, so no big world-shattering plot, but for two DIY-artists taking on a big project, it actually has some surprising ups-and-downs... especially toward the end (which I won't spoil).
Narrative: 5+ stars
Emotional roller coaster, narrative framing used to full effect.
It's hard to pinpoint what makes it engaging enough to be a 5-star graphic novel. I think the pace is the highlight. I remember at times laughing out loud and at other times feeling incredibly anxious, and many times feeling heart warmed. The timing with which these moods are delivered inside the narrative that gives this book that can't-put-it-down level of engaging.
The art is on par with what you might expect from what is sort of a "feature length" presentation of Elizabeth's "Touring Test" comic strip. The published book format allows her to draw some large-panel artwork. This is utilized to draw some scenic vistas from the tour that this story follows, and a few other purposes.
The "How-to" gimmick is utilized with perfect timing throughout the book as a framing narrative. Eric and Elizabeth knew exactly when and how to incorporate it to make me want to keep reading "one more chapter".
Despite being a story of a cross-country tour, Eric and Elizabeth manage to find a way to include a big staple of the Touring Test: Cats! (And other cute animals). If you read The Touring Test just for the cats, you might be disappointed that there are less cats and more depictions of touring life, but you might be pleasantly surprised at the amount of cats (and other cute animals) manage to show up on the road.
That might be all I have to say.
Artwork: 5 stars
If you're familiar with The Touring Test, you'll know what to expect.
Plot: 4 stars
It's a true story, so no big world-shattering plot, but for two DIY-artists taking on a big project, it actually has some surprising ups-and-downs... especially toward the end (which I won't spoil).
Narrative: 5+ stars
Emotional roller coaster, narrative framing used to full effect.
August 31, 2023
I am so honored to have been lucky enough to snag a promo copy of this book! Despite the excitement I feel from indulging in this delight early, as well as my status as a die-hard Pocket Vinyl fan, I must remain as honest as possible and provide a scathing review. I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Before diving into this, I had my worries that it would only be for us fans who have passionately followed our vinyl-crusaders over the years, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a very accessible read. Elizabeth did an amazing job crafting this project in a way that not only appeals to established fans, but allows newcomers to get a glimpse at the epic journey these two embarked on without losing any of the charm put into all of the other works by this band.
Much like everything else Elizabeth and Eric have done, this book is very intimate and doesn’t shy away from the gory details concerning the wear and tear the 50 states tour put on them. This journey gives you the grit and the glam, moving from heartwarming, inspiring moments, to tragic and stomach dropping bits, all while in Elizabeth’s cutesy Touring Test art style. This book very much plays out like “Pocket Vinyl: The Movie” (Sorry Drive. Play. Sleep.). You will laugh, you may even feel tense, but most importantly I’ll be damned if you don’t feel inspired by the end of the story.
As someone who doesn’t read as often as I would like to, I found this book to be extremely easy to read and follow. It was also pretty quick, and was hard to put down once I picked it up. I’ll definitely be re-reading it a few times, if only to soak in the beautiful attention to detail put into every panel.
Overall AMAZING! If you enjoy music, DIY artists, or love the idea of being in a touring band, this book is absolutely for you!
Before diving into this, I had my worries that it would only be for us fans who have passionately followed our vinyl-crusaders over the years, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a very accessible read. Elizabeth did an amazing job crafting this project in a way that not only appeals to established fans, but allows newcomers to get a glimpse at the epic journey these two embarked on without losing any of the charm put into all of the other works by this band.
Much like everything else Elizabeth and Eric have done, this book is very intimate and doesn’t shy away from the gory details concerning the wear and tear the 50 states tour put on them. This journey gives you the grit and the glam, moving from heartwarming, inspiring moments, to tragic and stomach dropping bits, all while in Elizabeth’s cutesy Touring Test art style. This book very much plays out like “Pocket Vinyl: The Movie” (Sorry Drive. Play. Sleep.). You will laugh, you may even feel tense, but most importantly I’ll be damned if you don’t feel inspired by the end of the story.
As someone who doesn’t read as often as I would like to, I found this book to be extremely easy to read and follow. It was also pretty quick, and was hard to put down once I picked it up. I’ll definitely be re-reading it a few times, if only to soak in the beautiful attention to detail put into every panel.
Overall AMAZING! If you enjoy music, DIY artists, or love the idea of being in a touring band, this book is absolutely for you!
August 23, 2023
This graphic novel is a heartfelt and genuine experience that allows readers to follow along with Elizabeth and Eric of Pocket Vinyl both in the physical and mental trials of their tour. The experience of seeking to achieve something difficult or absurd (most likely both) for nothing more than personal accomplishment is a universal concept that any reader, music fan or not, can resonate with. How to Completely Lose Your Mind is a story of the value of community, openness to new friends and experiences, and the daily struggles of both artist and musician. By the end of the book, you as the reader also feel like you have become a part of this wonderfully, absurdly improbable journey as another of Elizabeth and Eric's ever growing list of friends.
In addition to the touching story, the narrative is intercut with helpful segments used by the band to make touring easier. Many of these tips and tricks can be applied outside of band touring as well. As someone who has roundtripped across the country, I found many of the segments on how to make such drives easier both humorous and helpful.
Art wise, the book takes a beautifully simple art style that can be easily and quickly absorbed, but holds greater complexity to explore as you linger on each panel. Elizabeth transitions beautifully between abstract emotional representation of the characters inner worlds, and the beauty of the very real environments visited by the characters. From the first page to the last, the novel is pure eye candy, and can be enjoyed for the art just as much as it can for its story.
In addition to the touching story, the narrative is intercut with helpful segments used by the band to make touring easier. Many of these tips and tricks can be applied outside of band touring as well. As someone who has roundtripped across the country, I found many of the segments on how to make such drives easier both humorous and helpful.
Art wise, the book takes a beautifully simple art style that can be easily and quickly absorbed, but holds greater complexity to explore as you linger on each panel. Elizabeth transitions beautifully between abstract emotional representation of the characters inner worlds, and the beauty of the very real environments visited by the characters. From the first page to the last, the novel is pure eye candy, and can be enjoyed for the art just as much as it can for its story.
September 3, 2025
I started following Elizabeth Jancewicz on social media when she rescued a feral cat, which got named Pilgram, and started to write stories about the said cat. When I saw that she had written a book about her musical group, Pocket Vinyl, I figured I couldn’t go wrong, and I was correct.
The basic plot of this memoir is that there is a world record for a band touring all 50 of the US states. The current record is 50 days. And Eric, the singer of the group, looked at logistics, and figured it was possible to do it in 45. The trick being, of course, that the New England states are close together and quite small, and you can knock those off in a couple days.
But this isn’t just a journey through every one of the states, but also the fans, and the venues, and how to prepare for such an epic journey, from getting food sponsors to knowing how to pack your clothes.
Sad, funny, terrifying, and just such a delightful slice of life in each state, it is hard to sum up what this book is about, other than what the title says. If you go on tour, state after state, you get bone-tired, after a certain point, and, like Elizabeth did, just blank out, or have nightmares. There is something unsettling about sleeping in a different bed every night, and often with people who are friends of friends of friends.
I so highly recommend this book. I wanted to read it in one night, but fell asleep, but if I hadn’t, I probably would have. Available wherever books are sold, but if you get it from Elizabether’s etsy site, she loads it with bookmarks and stickers.
All the stars.
The basic plot of this memoir is that there is a world record for a band touring all 50 of the US states. The current record is 50 days. And Eric, the singer of the group, looked at logistics, and figured it was possible to do it in 45. The trick being, of course, that the New England states are close together and quite small, and you can knock those off in a couple days.
But this isn’t just a journey through every one of the states, but also the fans, and the venues, and how to prepare for such an epic journey, from getting food sponsors to knowing how to pack your clothes.
Sad, funny, terrifying, and just such a delightful slice of life in each state, it is hard to sum up what this book is about, other than what the title says. If you go on tour, state after state, you get bone-tired, after a certain point, and, like Elizabeth did, just blank out, or have nightmares. There is something unsettling about sleeping in a different bed every night, and often with people who are friends of friends of friends.
I so highly recommend this book. I wanted to read it in one night, but fell asleep, but if I hadn’t, I probably would have. Available wherever books are sold, but if you get it from Elizabether’s etsy site, she loads it with bookmarks and stickers.
All the stars.
October 10, 2023
While traveling for work, I spent some time in the airplane literally devouring this story! The pacing is fast, almost frantic on how to break a band tour record and I had to take moments to slow down and appreciate the hard work put into recounting this story.
You can’t help but root for Elizabeth and Eric. Doing something so out of the norm, and against so many people’s wishes, yet even without the need of a shiny medal or a trophy, breaking this record is a goal in itself. The way the story is set up in the first few pages already gets us into the stakes of what happens if breaking the record fails.
What would elevate the story even more and keep it top of mind is a discography of the songs from the lyrics displayed throughout the story. Like a literary playlist. It really threw me in an emotional mood when I listened to the last song towards the end of the book, and forced me to slow down and savor the journey (and maybe cry a little.)
***EDIT! There IS an official soundtrack to listen along to!
https://pocketvinyl.bandcamp.com/albu...
You’re going to love this book. I’m so happy to have had an early peek at this graphic novel. I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review, and it was honestly a pleasure going in this journey! This is perfect for someone who's into music, especially indie bands and how to do something daring like breaking a world record for themselves.
You can’t help but root for Elizabeth and Eric. Doing something so out of the norm, and against so many people’s wishes, yet even without the need of a shiny medal or a trophy, breaking this record is a goal in itself. The way the story is set up in the first few pages already gets us into the stakes of what happens if breaking the record fails.
What would elevate the story even more and keep it top of mind is a discography of the songs from the lyrics displayed throughout the story. Like a literary playlist. It really threw me in an emotional mood when I listened to the last song towards the end of the book, and forced me to slow down and savor the journey (and maybe cry a little.)
***EDIT! There IS an official soundtrack to listen along to!
https://pocketvinyl.bandcamp.com/albu...
You’re going to love this book. I’m so happy to have had an early peek at this graphic novel. I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review, and it was honestly a pleasure going in this journey! This is perfect for someone who's into music, especially indie bands and how to do something daring like breaking a world record for themselves.
February 28, 2025
I’ve been a fan of Pocket Vinyl for a while—a fan of the Touring Test for longer—and was looking forward to reading this book simply as a fan. I didn’t expect HOW TO COMPLETELY LOSE YOUR MIND to be one of the best graphic novels I’ve read in a long time.
I think I expected the book to be a collection of vignettes—tour stories, essentially—and it was. But it was also a story about ambition and kindness, about anxiety and taking care (of in self, of each other), about creativity and music. But more than anything, Eric and Elizabeth’s story was about the village it takes to do something phenomenal—and about graciously accepting that help.
The drawings were fun and expressive, but the story here really made HOW TO COMPLETELY LOSE YOUR MIND an amazing read. I loved the routine starting each set, how each characters’ small conflicts built up into a larger one, how these “wacky your stories” built up into a tight story with a clear conflict and dynamic character that are easy to root for.
I recommend this book for fans of Pocket Vinyl and the Touring Test, but also anyone who loves stories about musicians—and anyone who likes graphic memoirs. Seriously, if you dig that genre, you’ll find something to love in this book.
I think I expected the book to be a collection of vignettes—tour stories, essentially—and it was. But it was also a story about ambition and kindness, about anxiety and taking care (of in self, of each other), about creativity and music. But more than anything, Eric and Elizabeth’s story was about the village it takes to do something phenomenal—and about graciously accepting that help.
The drawings were fun and expressive, but the story here really made HOW TO COMPLETELY LOSE YOUR MIND an amazing read. I loved the routine starting each set, how each characters’ small conflicts built up into a larger one, how these “wacky your stories” built up into a tight story with a clear conflict and dynamic character that are easy to root for.
I recommend this book for fans of Pocket Vinyl and the Touring Test, but also anyone who loves stories about musicians—and anyone who likes graphic memoirs. Seriously, if you dig that genre, you’ll find something to love in this book.
October 11, 2024
Outstanding!!! Can't recommend HOW TO COMPLETELY LOSE YOUR MIND enough. A true page-turner, I had to stop myself from trying to finish the entire book in one evening (I ended up parceling it up into chapters, but I wanted to just plow through it). It's funny, it's interesting, it's got good drama, and above all, it *feels*. I've seen PV play live, but I'm more of a listener than a reader, so I have (now regretfully) not seen much of Jancewicz's Touring Test webcomic. This book follows in that style, and I was floored to learn that it was pencil & markered with very little digital intermediary. What a HUGE amount of work this book must've been! Each panel is lovingly rendered with small details while maintaining the clean and simple web-comic style. The larger panels of wildlife and the American outdoors are magical!
An awesome reminder that optimism and anxiety don't have to be mutually exclusive! I appreciated the honest way emotions are rendered. It's a good story but it also has a lot of great practical advice for touring musicians / creatives. Loved it.
Inspiring work of art. Immediately recommended to my friends.
An awesome reminder that optimism and anxiety don't have to be mutually exclusive! I appreciated the honest way emotions are rendered. It's a good story but it also has a lot of great practical advice for touring musicians / creatives. Loved it.
Inspiring work of art. Immediately recommended to my friends.
October 10, 2023
As a musician/artist, retired librarian, this book speaks volumes to me. It is a well thought out, well laid out graphic novel that flows and reads like a memoir, like you are a little mouse in Elizabeth's pocket on tour with Eric and Elizabeth. I have had the opportunity to see and hear this couple in real life on several occasions, and this book takes you along for the ride of their whirlwind tour and their drive that gives them backbone to do it. I am impressed with the book, as well as this spunky young couple and their enormous creativity and bravery to tackle world records, painting a new painting every show accompanied by eclectic creative piano and vocal. This book is like a delicious box of chocolates. It is so hard to put down! Run, don't walk to your independent book seller and buy this book for yourself and as gifts. Get to a Pocket Vinyl concert and see Elizabeth paint lovely, and hear Eric sing his heart out, and play non-generic creative music. Please. Thank you.
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October 19, 2023
How to Completely Lose Your Mind is a wonderful graphic novel that kept my interest from start to finish. The adventures (and some misadventures) of Eric and Elizabeth as Pocket Vinyl tried to set a world record of performing in all 50 states in 45 days is captured in a way that had me turning page after wondering what would happen next. I think it's amazing that this young couple either already knew people or would find folks their age who were willing to give them a place to sleep and feed them from start to finish. While the audiences in some venues were very small, Eric and Elizabeth stayed positive throughout their journey knowing everything that happened was meant to be just the way it turned out. I learned something new while reading the book as well. I now know how to better fold my clothes when I go on vacation to get more into a smaller suitcase. A very entertaining read that I'm sure readers of all ages will enjoy.
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