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Que Sorte a Minha
Not yet published
Expected 17 Nov 26Fenômeno internacional criado pelo artista Christian Watson, a caveirinha Mr. Skelly conquistou milhões de pessoas nas redes sociais e agora chega à DarkSide no livro
Que Sorte a Minha
, obra que alcançou o primeiro lugar nas listas de mais vendidos do Sunday Times e do New York Times. Com delicadeza, humor e uma boa dose de melancolia, acompanhamos o personagem por paisagens exuberantes e terrenos traiçoeiros, atravessando momentos de alegria, perda, luto e amor em busca de sua família e de um lugar seguro para chamar de lar.
Ao longo do caminho, ele encontra pequenas reflexões e ensinamentos sobre aquilo que vale a pena guardar, o que precisamos deixar partir e a beleza que existe simplesmente em estar aqui. Um lembrete de que, no fim das contas, somos todos feitos de ossos.
Sensível, poético e inteiramente criado à mão por um artista que nasceu nas redes sociais e se transformou em um fenômeno internacional, com mais de 6 milhões de seguidores no Instagram, Que Sorte a Minha lança uma luz mais suave sobre aquilo que tantas vezes deixamos passar. Um livro para nos lembrar que não estamos sozinhos, e que viver é mesmo uma sorte.
Ao longo do caminho, ele encontra pequenas reflexões e ensinamentos sobre aquilo que vale a pena guardar, o que precisamos deixar partir e a beleza que existe simplesmente em estar aqui. Um lembrete de que, no fim das contas, somos todos feitos de ossos.
Sensível, poético e inteiramente criado à mão por um artista que nasceu nas redes sociais e se transformou em um fenômeno internacional, com mais de 6 milhões de seguidores no Instagram, Que Sorte a Minha lança uma luz mais suave sobre aquilo que tantas vezes deixamos passar. Um livro para nos lembrar que não estamos sozinhos, e que viver é mesmo uma sorte.
128 pages, Hardcover
First published July 28, 2026
About the author
Christian Watson
2 books116 followersChristian Watson is a designer living in Tasmania (Australia) as an American, and is the guy behind 1924us and Mr Skelly. Mr Skelly was created for Christian’s two children, Lavender-May and Alaska. Together with his wife, they run a little general store where they collect, design, and sell their own goods.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 676 reviews
March 22, 2026
wonderful lil illustrations of a skeleton enjoying nature, embracing life and death - but the accompanying platitudes are unbearably trite.
the soft art is certainly the high point! i love to see a skelly out in the wild. sun dappled forests, wildflower lined streams, crumbling moss covered walls, grassy cliffsides - i want to fall inside these scenes and soak them up.
but unfortunately much of the text is a mishmash of ~DON'T GIVE UP~ inspo crap. it's often incongruous with the illustrations, and can be redundant from page to page. "it is what it is" and "do the best you can" are oft-repeated and feel utterly meaningless. i almost wish the text was omitted entirely, as its hollowness detracts from the beautiful art.
the one exception is a passage toward the end, written across a handful of pages: "i hope death feels like being picked up from the backseat and carried to my bed half asleep, where tucked in and eyes closed i can hear those who love me talking through a cracked door." this section nearly redeems all of the clunky cliches that precede it.
this is worth picking up for the charming art, but be prepared to roll your eyes at the corny text!
Thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
the soft art is certainly the high point! i love to see a skelly out in the wild. sun dappled forests, wildflower lined streams, crumbling moss covered walls, grassy cliffsides - i want to fall inside these scenes and soak them up.
but unfortunately much of the text is a mishmash of ~DON'T GIVE UP~ inspo crap. it's often incongruous with the illustrations, and can be redundant from page to page. "it is what it is" and "do the best you can" are oft-repeated and feel utterly meaningless. i almost wish the text was omitted entirely, as its hollowness detracts from the beautiful art.
the one exception is a passage toward the end, written across a handful of pages: "i hope death feels like being picked up from the backseat and carried to my bed half asleep, where tucked in and eyes closed i can hear those who love me talking through a cracked door." this section nearly redeems all of the clunky cliches that precede it.
this is worth picking up for the charming art, but be prepared to roll your eyes at the corny text!
Thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
August 2, 2026
At its heart, this book is a collection that reminds us that we are human, we are part of nature, we are alive, and we will die.
It weaves these simple truths together through gorgeous illustrations that bring together the outdoors, the wild, the simple, and the details. 🎨
All of it is paired with thoughtful reflections from another human sharing their own experiences and observations. 🌿
Thank you Clarkson Potter and Netgalley for the ARC.
It weaves these simple truths together through gorgeous illustrations that bring together the outdoors, the wild, the simple, and the details. 🎨
All of it is paired with thoughtful reflections from another human sharing their own experiences and observations. 🌿
Thank you Clarkson Potter and Netgalley for the ARC.
October 24, 2026
This reminded me a bit of the book The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse. The illustrations are so beguiling. I agree with some of the other GR reviews that the captions sometimes don't feel necessary - often the pictures seem to be conveying more, in their atmosphere and subtle details, than a caption could. The artist has an Instagram page which gives a taste of what 'How Lucky Am I' is like: https://www.instagram.com/1924us/
September 27, 2026
This is almost like a series of "Hang in there" posters from a kid's bedroom but with a skeleton in the poster. Mr. Skelly is a skeleton drawn in rural settings with affirmational sentences written in the background.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"How lucky am I to be broken so the light could come in."
We all believe that certain aspects of life are taboo and steer clear of those while having a conversation. It's something every single one of us does to not hurt anyone else's feelings or to be deemed morbid. We spare those feelings and keep them hidden deep inside. Skelly is here to tell us that it's part of life and okay to talk about.
I came across Skelly while doom-scrolling (I probably should have been reading my book) and I couldn't help but love the illustration and the uplifting/positive message. Usually, those aren't two things that go hand in hand but it really worked. I was hooked from that day and actively sought out more.
This collection is fantastic and gave me a lot of hope. You can never tell what kind of support you need in your everyday life and this seemed to hit everything perfectly.
We all need a little extra boost and Skelly is here to save the day. I don't know what we would do without Skelly.
We all believe that certain aspects of life are taboo and steer clear of those while having a conversation. It's something every single one of us does to not hurt anyone else's feelings or to be deemed morbid. We spare those feelings and keep them hidden deep inside. Skelly is here to tell us that it's part of life and okay to talk about.
I came across Skelly while doom-scrolling (I probably should have been reading my book) and I couldn't help but love the illustration and the uplifting/positive message. Usually, those aren't two things that go hand in hand but it really worked. I was hooked from that day and actively sought out more.
This collection is fantastic and gave me a lot of hope. You can never tell what kind of support you need in your everyday life and this seemed to hit everything perfectly.
We all need a little extra boost and Skelly is here to save the day. I don't know what we would do without Skelly.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
How Lucky Am I is a beautiful book that is both comforting and thought provoking told through illustrations of art created by the author and short one line reflections that are weighty by inspirational and uplifting at the same time. Each section has notes from the author about why he started his art of Mr Skelly and how he began and other personal snippets.
I've been a huge fan of Mr Skelly for a year now, and each illustration and message always moves me and captures my heart, and this book was just a pure joy to read. I hope to one day get the physical book so I can treasure each illustration and message forever.
How Lucky Am I is a beautiful book that is both comforting and thought provoking told through illustrations of art created by the author and short one line reflections that are weighty by inspirational and uplifting at the same time. Each section has notes from the author about why he started his art of Mr Skelly and how he began and other personal snippets.
I've been a huge fan of Mr Skelly for a year now, and each illustration and message always moves me and captures my heart, and this book was just a pure joy to read. I hope to one day get the physical book so I can treasure each illustration and message forever.
August 1, 2026
What an absolutely beautiful book. The artwork... the words... everything about it. In a world of AI, it's nice to see someone get back to the basics, and Christian has the talent to do so. I don't think there's any other character on social media like Mr. Skelly that has touched my soul so deeply. It's what I needed to hear at this time in my life. I'd recommend this book to anyone - I think it has something in it for everyone.
March 2, 2026
The artwork is absolutely beautiful, and the messages are easy to digest while still carrying weight. It’s the kind of book that reminds you to live in the present, let go of what you can’t control, and trust that hard seasons will pass. Sometimes we all just need that soft reminder and this book delivers it in a really lovely way.
October 12, 2026
A primeira coisa que me conquistou neste livro foi a arte gráfica. As ilustrações são lindíssimas, cuidadas ao pormenor, as cores, as sombras, e acompanham uma personagem invulgar que se torna cada vez mais simpática ao longo da leitura.
Mr. Skelly nasceu de um desenho que Christian Watson criou para os filhos, para lhes falar de amor, da cabeça e da vida. Quando partilhou a imagem nas redes sociais, o sucesso inesperado levou-o a transformá-la num livro ilustrado. A escolha de um esqueleto é curiosa, sobretudo porque estamos habituados a associá-lo à morte. O autor propõe outro olhar: «Mas só tenho vida por causa da morte.» Há magia naquilo que não vemos, mas que nos sustenta e nos permite viver.
Em cada página, magnificamente ilustrada, existe uma mensagem curta. De tempos a tempos, o autor desenvolve uma reflexão em prosa, abordando temas como a perda, o medo, o controlo, a mudança e a possibilidade de recomeçar.
A história acompanha Mr. Skelly que decide abandonar o que conhece ( a cidade) e procurar outro lugar por se encontrar insatisfeito. Pelo caminho, enfrenta a incerteza, o caos, atravessa momentos em que parece não saber para onde vai e procura uma forma de encontrar estabilidade. Não há uma mudança instantânea: há um percurso, com momentos de dúvida, até conseguir construir uma vida diferente.
«Não tem de carregar tudo.»
«Se continuar a transportar tijolos velhos, irá construir a mesma casa.»
Nem todas as mensagens me convenceram da mesma forma. Algumas aproximam-se da autoajuda e apresentam-se como simples possibilidades que nem sempre estão ao alcance de todos. «A vida irá encontrar maneira de levá-lo onde tem de ir» é uma ideia em que não acredito inteiramente. Para chegar a algum lugar, também é preciso agir, trabalhar e procurar caminhos. E a frase «Vai correr tudo bem» fez-me lembrar a pandemia. Nem tudo ficou bem para todos, e não há garantias de que assim seja.
Acredito na possibilidade de mudar, mas não penso que tudo dependa apenas da vontade. Há circunstâncias que dificultam o caminho, situações que não podem ser abandonadas de um dia para o outro e momentos em que a estabilidade demora a chegar. Talvez seja precisamente por isso que a mudança representada no livro me interessou: não tanto pela ideia de que tudo acaba bem, mas pela decisão de enfrentar o caos e continuar até encontrar um lugar onde seja possível viver de outra maneira.
«Que sorte a minha por ter perdido o que queria, para encontrar o que merecia.»
Às vezes, aquilo que tanto se quer deixa de fazer sentido, e deixar ir permite libertar espaço para outras possibilidades. Não porque todas as perdas tragam necessariamente algo melhor, mas porque há coisas, pessoas e situações que já não têm de ocupar o mesmo lugar na vida.
Gostei deste livro, sobretudo pela beleza das ilustrações e pela simplicidade com que aborda questões importantes. Algumas reflexões pareceram-me demasiado próximas da autoajuda, mas outras são pertinentes.
«Que sorte a nossa por termos chegado até aqui.»
Mr. Skelly nasceu de um desenho que Christian Watson criou para os filhos, para lhes falar de amor, da cabeça e da vida. Quando partilhou a imagem nas redes sociais, o sucesso inesperado levou-o a transformá-la num livro ilustrado. A escolha de um esqueleto é curiosa, sobretudo porque estamos habituados a associá-lo à morte. O autor propõe outro olhar: «Mas só tenho vida por causa da morte.» Há magia naquilo que não vemos, mas que nos sustenta e nos permite viver.
Em cada página, magnificamente ilustrada, existe uma mensagem curta. De tempos a tempos, o autor desenvolve uma reflexão em prosa, abordando temas como a perda, o medo, o controlo, a mudança e a possibilidade de recomeçar.
A história acompanha Mr. Skelly que decide abandonar o que conhece ( a cidade) e procurar outro lugar por se encontrar insatisfeito. Pelo caminho, enfrenta a incerteza, o caos, atravessa momentos em que parece não saber para onde vai e procura uma forma de encontrar estabilidade. Não há uma mudança instantânea: há um percurso, com momentos de dúvida, até conseguir construir uma vida diferente.
«Não tem de carregar tudo.»
«Se continuar a transportar tijolos velhos, irá construir a mesma casa.»
Nem todas as mensagens me convenceram da mesma forma. Algumas aproximam-se da autoajuda e apresentam-se como simples possibilidades que nem sempre estão ao alcance de todos. «A vida irá encontrar maneira de levá-lo onde tem de ir» é uma ideia em que não acredito inteiramente. Para chegar a algum lugar, também é preciso agir, trabalhar e procurar caminhos. E a frase «Vai correr tudo bem» fez-me lembrar a pandemia. Nem tudo ficou bem para todos, e não há garantias de que assim seja.
Acredito na possibilidade de mudar, mas não penso que tudo dependa apenas da vontade. Há circunstâncias que dificultam o caminho, situações que não podem ser abandonadas de um dia para o outro e momentos em que a estabilidade demora a chegar. Talvez seja precisamente por isso que a mudança representada no livro me interessou: não tanto pela ideia de que tudo acaba bem, mas pela decisão de enfrentar o caos e continuar até encontrar um lugar onde seja possível viver de outra maneira.
«Que sorte a minha por ter perdido o que queria, para encontrar o que merecia.»
Às vezes, aquilo que tanto se quer deixa de fazer sentido, e deixar ir permite libertar espaço para outras possibilidades. Não porque todas as perdas tragam necessariamente algo melhor, mas porque há coisas, pessoas e situações que já não têm de ocupar o mesmo lugar na vida.
Gostei deste livro, sobretudo pela beleza das ilustrações e pela simplicidade com que aborda questões importantes. Algumas reflexões pareceram-me demasiado próximas da autoajuda, mas outras são pertinentes.
«Que sorte a nossa por termos chegado até aqui.»
October 19, 2026
A beautifully illustrated book, with a couple of nice insights on life (including death) ("you don't have to set yourself on fire to keep others warm", "I hope death feels like being picked up from the backseat and carried to my bed half asleep, where tucked in and eyes half closed, I can hear those who love me talking through a cracked door"), and what to me seemed a whole lot of self-helpy platitudes ("it is what it is", "do the best you can").
I guess I'm just not the audience for this.
(Thanks to Ten Speed Press for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley)
I guess I'm just not the audience for this.
(Thanks to Ten Speed Press for providing me with a review copy through NetGalley)
August 28, 2026
kao osoba koja se boji smrti, ovo mi je stvarno trebalo.
July 30, 2026
I picked this up on a whim to read on my lunch break at work, not knowing much about it or it's origins - apparently its got a big online following but I don't frequent those spheres very often - and for a small, illustrated self-help/mindfulness book, largely made up of simple yet specific-feeling affirmations, featuring a hand-drawn skeleton, I found this to be surprisingly affecting, philosophical and moving.
Am I getting old? Is this why this kind of book is suddenly appealing to me? Maybe.
Is this book and it's message just finding me at the right time in my life? Also maybe.
But I nonetheless I very much appreciated what this book shared with me and I found it unexpectedly profound.
Am I getting old? Is this why this kind of book is suddenly appealing to me? Maybe.
Is this book and it's message just finding me at the right time in my life? Also maybe.
But I nonetheless I very much appreciated what this book shared with me and I found it unexpectedly profound.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Sometimes just being alive is an act of courage"
How Lucky Am I is one of those graphic novels that captivated me from the very first page to the last. It came into my life at exactly the right moment, helping me get back up after a difficult period I’ve been going through these past months.
Both the illustrations and the words by Christian Watson are beautiful. In his writing I found many small reminders and reasons to keep moving forward.
Within these pages I found so much to reflect on and carry with me, little thoughts and feelings that I want to hold onto and bring into my everyday life.
Some books arrive when you need them the most, and this was definitely one of them. I’m really grateful I found it when I did.
I’m truly grateful to Christian Watson for creating Mr. Skelly and for letting me experience his journey.
"Sometimes just being alive is an act of courage"
How Lucky Am I is one of those graphic novels that captivated me from the very first page to the last. It came into my life at exactly the right moment, helping me get back up after a difficult period I’ve been going through these past months.
Both the illustrations and the words by Christian Watson are beautiful. In his writing I found many small reminders and reasons to keep moving forward.
Within these pages I found so much to reflect on and carry with me, little thoughts and feelings that I want to hold onto and bring into my everyday life.
Some books arrive when you need them the most, and this was definitely one of them. I’m really grateful I found it when I did.
I’m truly grateful to Christian Watson for creating Mr. Skelly and for letting me experience his journey.
August 6, 2026
I wish everyone would read this. When I tell people I’m fascinated with death they think I’m morbid… no I don’t think so. Death is a constant reminder to live and be thankful. Find what you’d die for.. and live for it.
September 20, 2026
"How Lucky Am I" Christiana Watsona nije samo knjiga, to je meditacija o životu, gubitku i onome što nas čini ljudima. Kroz lika Mr. Skellyja, nježnog kostura koji hoda kroz bujne pejzaže, teške trenutke i male radosti, Watson nam nudi riječi i slike o kojima razmišljamo dugo nakon što knjigu zatvorimo.
Crteži su izvanredni. Ručno oslikane ilustracije spajaju jednostavnost karikaturalnog lika (Mr. Skelly podsjeća na toplog, prijateljskog lika iz starih animiranih crtića iz ranih dvadesetih ala Silly Symphonies ili Betty Boop) s bogatim, luminiscentnim prirodnim pozadinama. Detalji su promišljeni: svjetlost u sumrak, tekstura drveća, mir mora ili tišina livade. Kostur stoji jarko i gotovo djetinjasto usred svega, a taj kontrast čini svaku stranicu emotivno snažnom i vizualno nezaboravnom.
Sviđa mi se što knjiga ne bježi od tuge, gubitka, žalosti ni ljubavi. Mr. Skelly prolazi kroz uspone i padove, a tekstovi su tihi podsjetnici kako pustiti ono što ne možemo kontrolirati, kako cijeniti ono što je nevidljivo, kako prepoznati sreću upravo u krhkosti sadašnjeg trenutka. Posebno snažno djeluje suočavanje sa smrću. Watson je ne dramatizira niti je pretvara u strah već ju pretvara u nježan, gotovo utješan dio života. Smrt nije kraj kojeg se treba bojati, već podsjetnik da živimo punije, da volimo jasnije i da cijenimo ono što imamo.
Nije preduga ni pretenciozna, te svaka stranica djeluje kao mali, pažljivo odabrani trenutak. Poruka je univerzalna: svi smo napravljeni od istih kostiju. U vremenu koje često traži buku i dramu, Watson nudi tišinu, toplinu i iskrenost. To je knjiga koju želiš držati blizu, vraćati se njoj u teškim danima i dijeliti s ljudima koje voliš.
Crteži su izvanredni. Ručno oslikane ilustracije spajaju jednostavnost karikaturalnog lika (Mr. Skelly podsjeća na toplog, prijateljskog lika iz starih animiranih crtića iz ranih dvadesetih ala Silly Symphonies ili Betty Boop) s bogatim, luminiscentnim prirodnim pozadinama. Detalji su promišljeni: svjetlost u sumrak, tekstura drveća, mir mora ili tišina livade. Kostur stoji jarko i gotovo djetinjasto usred svega, a taj kontrast čini svaku stranicu emotivno snažnom i vizualno nezaboravnom.
Sviđa mi se što knjiga ne bježi od tuge, gubitka, žalosti ni ljubavi. Mr. Skelly prolazi kroz uspone i padove, a tekstovi su tihi podsjetnici kako pustiti ono što ne možemo kontrolirati, kako cijeniti ono što je nevidljivo, kako prepoznati sreću upravo u krhkosti sadašnjeg trenutka. Posebno snažno djeluje suočavanje sa smrću. Watson je ne dramatizira niti je pretvara u strah već ju pretvara u nježan, gotovo utješan dio života. Smrt nije kraj kojeg se treba bojati, već podsjetnik da živimo punije, da volimo jasnije i da cijenimo ono što imamo.
Nije preduga ni pretenciozna, te svaka stranica djeluje kao mali, pažljivo odabrani trenutak. Poruka je univerzalna: svi smo napravljeni od istih kostiju. U vremenu koje često traži buku i dramu, Watson nudi tišinu, toplinu i iskrenost. To je knjiga koju želiš držati blizu, vraćati se njoj u teškim danima i dijeliti s ljudima koje voliš.
October 12, 2026
This is a beautiful offering and one that I desperately needed. This time of year, as we head towards the holidays, is difficult for me. I seriously dread the final quarter of the year. This book felt like a breath of fresh air or a dip in the perfect swimming hole. I checked it out from the library, but after only a few pages, I set the book aside to order my own copy. It is just the right amount of reading for stepping back from life and getting the affirmations one needs to tackle reality once again. I don't know who read it or recommended it, but I am mighty thankful!
July 30, 2026
How Lucky Am I by Christian Watson is less of a traditional story and more of a quiet conversation about life, loss, gratitude, and what it truly means to be alive. Through the gentle journey of Mr. Skelly, a lovable skeleton wandering through breathtaking landscapes, Watson reminds us that our mortality isn't something to fear, but something that makes every ordinary moment extraordinary.
The illustrations are absolutely stunning. Every page feels like a piece of art, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the beauty hidden in simple moments. Mr. Skelly is both whimsical and deeply comforting, proving that even a skeleton can become one of the warmest, most relatable characters you'll meet.
What makes this book special is its message. It encourages readers to let go of what they cannot control, embrace change, and cherish the people and moments that make life meaningful. Rather than offering loud, dramatic inspiration, it speaks with quiet honesty, making its reflections feel sincere and heartfelt.
Some of the affirmations can feel familiar if you've read many inspirational books before, and there are moments where the messages lean into well-known life advice. However, the combination of Watson's beautiful artwork and gentle storytelling gives those ideas a fresh emotional weight that lingers long after the final page.
How Lucky Am I is a book to return to whenever life feels overwhelming. It's a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the fragile beauty of simply being here. If you enjoy illustrated books filled with hope, mindfulness, and reflections on the human experience, this is one you'll want to keep close and perhaps revisit whenever you need a little perspective.
The illustrations are absolutely stunning. Every page feels like a piece of art, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the beauty hidden in simple moments. Mr. Skelly is both whimsical and deeply comforting, proving that even a skeleton can become one of the warmest, most relatable characters you'll meet.
What makes this book special is its message. It encourages readers to let go of what they cannot control, embrace change, and cherish the people and moments that make life meaningful. Rather than offering loud, dramatic inspiration, it speaks with quiet honesty, making its reflections feel sincere and heartfelt.
Some of the affirmations can feel familiar if you've read many inspirational books before, and there are moments where the messages lean into well-known life advice. However, the combination of Watson's beautiful artwork and gentle storytelling gives those ideas a fresh emotional weight that lingers long after the final page.
How Lucky Am I is a book to return to whenever life feels overwhelming. It's a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the fragile beauty of simply being here. If you enjoy illustrated books filled with hope, mindfulness, and reflections on the human experience, this is one you'll want to keep close and perhaps revisit whenever you need a little perspective.
Read
March 11, 2026Thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter for an eARC in exchange for an honest review
I am very familiar with Christian Watson's work, having followed him on Instagram from many years. At this point, I'm sure most social media users will have seen at least a clip or two of his uniquely styled animation of Mr Skelly and the life-affirming sayings that accompany the art. There is something inherently peaceful about the design of these pages, the soft haze to the backgrounds and the use of colours creating landscapes that a reader can project their own locations onto. It's a book of hope for the future and trusting in whatever process you believe in, I don't doubt that the physical print will be a true thing of beauty.
I am very familiar with Christian Watson's work, having followed him on Instagram from many years. At this point, I'm sure most social media users will have seen at least a clip or two of his uniquely styled animation of Mr Skelly and the life-affirming sayings that accompany the art. There is something inherently peaceful about the design of these pages, the soft haze to the backgrounds and the use of colours creating landscapes that a reader can project their own locations onto. It's a book of hope for the future and trusting in whatever process you believe in, I don't doubt that the physical print will be a true thing of beauty.
July 29, 2026
I love these skelly animations online, and I feel like the content creator is a really cool guy that believes in & stands for something. His dedication to keeping things human made, from his animations and art to his organic plushie in the work, he just… seems like he cares in a really soft way that the world needs right now. You can really feel that in his work too, there is a very deep warmth and softness to his art that makes them feel cozy and a bit like coming home after a long day.
I think that this book would make a great gift to someone who is struggling or depressed, because there is also a level of melancholia thats familiar and comfortable, but in a way thats safe, not destructive. It speaks to your soul — the weariness that many of us are no doubt feeling right now — in an encouraging way, a gentle way that doesn’t invalidate those low feelings but instead let’s you feel a little flicker of hope.
For a lot of people this will be just another illustrator putting together an art book, but for the right people it’ll be a comfort and a tangible reminder that even if things are bad now, they can always get better… even if life is short and wears us down to our bones, it can get better.
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy!
I think that this book would make a great gift to someone who is struggling or depressed, because there is also a level of melancholia thats familiar and comfortable, but in a way thats safe, not destructive. It speaks to your soul — the weariness that many of us are no doubt feeling right now — in an encouraging way, a gentle way that doesn’t invalidate those low feelings but instead let’s you feel a little flicker of hope.
For a lot of people this will be just another illustrator putting together an art book, but for the right people it’ll be a comfort and a tangible reminder that even if things are bad now, they can always get better… even if life is short and wears us down to our bones, it can get better.
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mr. Skelly has always been a comfort character with wise words of affirming the truth. I have been a huge fan of the author's work and it always elevates me from my overthinking.
In this book, Mr Skelly travels far and wide while letting various emotions run its course. With any desperation and short- cuts, he inspires others to not let fear manipulate you into thinking negative things. Every emotion has its unique impact. The life lessons that Mr Skelly shares speaks of experiences of living in the moment, letting go of uncertainties and overwhelming thoughts and believing that each sunrise is a new beginning.
With beautiful illustrations, this book also highlights masterful storytelling with one page explanation. Mr Skelly makes it easier to talk about grief, loss, vulnerabilities and more. He then reaches home- a place of safety and warmth that makes the entire journey worth it.
In this book, Mr Skelly travels far and wide while letting various emotions run its course. With any desperation and short- cuts, he inspires others to not let fear manipulate you into thinking negative things. Every emotion has its unique impact. The life lessons that Mr Skelly shares speaks of experiences of living in the moment, letting go of uncertainties and overwhelming thoughts and believing that each sunrise is a new beginning.
With beautiful illustrations, this book also highlights masterful storytelling with one page explanation. Mr Skelly makes it easier to talk about grief, loss, vulnerabilities and more. He then reaches home- a place of safety and warmth that makes the entire journey worth it.
October 20, 2026
This is a lovely read for camping or to feel the camping vibe. The author is from Oregon after all. A lovely inspirational read for spooky season that felt like a warm hug as well as a therapy session. I felt a strong vibe and connection to the lighthouses too. The book has gentle but important reminders about life. I loved the little hearts places in random spots.
July 30, 2026
This was so sweet, cozy, and full of so many important messages! This is such a beautiful blend of a self help book and a beautiful art book! I’ve followed Christian Watson on Instagram for a few years now and it was so nice to see his art compiled into such a lovely book!
I definitely recommend this for any finds of creepy cute art or anyone who’s looking a book with a positive message!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I definitely recommend this for any finds of creepy cute art or anyone who’s looking a book with a positive message!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 27, 2026
Was wäre, wenn wir das Leben bewusster betrachten und seine Vergänglichkeit nicht als etwas Trauriges, sondern als Teil seiner Schönheit und Einzigartigkeit sehen würden? Der Autor und Illustrator erinnert uns durch seine Figur Mr. Skelly auf eindrucksvolle Weise daran, wie kostbar das Leben ist und daran, was wirklich wichtig ist, was wir festhalten und was wir loslassen dürfen.
💀
Dieses Buch hat mich durch seine positive und lebensbejahende Botschaft berührt. Im Alltag übersieht man oft die schönen Momente und konzentriert sich stattdessen auf Sorgen und negative Gedanken. Das Buch hat mir gezeigt, dass es nicht immer die großen Erlebnisse sein müssen, die glücklich machen. Oft sind es die kleinen Augenblicke, liebe Menschen, besondere Begegnungen und Dinge, für die man dankbar sein kann.
🥰
Es ist eine Aufforderung, das Leben trotz schwieriger Zeiten bewusster wahrzunehmen und die schönen Seiten mehr zu schätzen. Es regt zum Nachdenken an, gibt Inspiration und macht Mut.
❤️
Besonders hervorzuheben sind natürlich die wundervollen Illustrationen rund um das Skelett Mr. Skelly, die farbenfroh, voller Leben und Liebe zum Detail sind.
🧑🎨
💀
Dieses Buch hat mich durch seine positive und lebensbejahende Botschaft berührt. Im Alltag übersieht man oft die schönen Momente und konzentriert sich stattdessen auf Sorgen und negative Gedanken. Das Buch hat mir gezeigt, dass es nicht immer die großen Erlebnisse sein müssen, die glücklich machen. Oft sind es die kleinen Augenblicke, liebe Menschen, besondere Begegnungen und Dinge, für die man dankbar sein kann.
🥰
Es ist eine Aufforderung, das Leben trotz schwieriger Zeiten bewusster wahrzunehmen und die schönen Seiten mehr zu schätzen. Es regt zum Nachdenken an, gibt Inspiration und macht Mut.
❤️
Besonders hervorzuheben sind natürlich die wundervollen Illustrationen rund um das Skelett Mr. Skelly, die farbenfroh, voller Leben und Liebe zum Detail sind.
🧑🎨
August 1, 2026
How Lucky I am features Mr. Skelly, a skeleton character that I've known and loved ever since it blew up online. Chriatian Watson created it for himself and his family, so they could more easily come to terms with themes of life and death, but it ended up resonating with so many of us.
The book contains a few reflective essays with motivational messages for the reader, while in between are l full-page and double-page illustrations of Mr. Skelly's cozy adventures, arranged to fit into a story, but mostly just reminiscing on the joys and beauties of life. I think most will both enjoy the artwork, and find at least some quotes that will resonate with while reading.
This book is great for existing or soon to be fans of Christian's work, and ideal for a calm and cozy read or a pick-me-up after a hard day.
I thank Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for access to an advance reading copy of this illustrated book!
The book contains a few reflective essays with motivational messages for the reader, while in between are l full-page and double-page illustrations of Mr. Skelly's cozy adventures, arranged to fit into a story, but mostly just reminiscing on the joys and beauties of life. I think most will both enjoy the artwork, and find at least some quotes that will resonate with while reading.
This book is great for existing or soon to be fans of Christian's work, and ideal for a calm and cozy read or a pick-me-up after a hard day.
I thank Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for access to an advance reading copy of this illustrated book!
August 31, 2026
Iako sam ovaj čudesan imspirativan stripić Christiana Watsona već neko vrijeme pratila na Instagramu, iznenadilo me koliko mi je sjela i knjiškom formatu.
Gode mu papirnate stranice, usporilo se vrijeme i te divne, jednostavne, začudne misli i ilustracije samo su dublje prodrle u vrlo, vrlo umornu mene koja se ovih dana sama bori s nekim egzistencijalnim temama vezanima uz ono kako želim provesti sljedećih 40 godina života.
Divna knjiga, još bolji poklon, svakako je imajte na umu kad vam treba nešto jednostavno da vas podigne iz groba (ha!). ❤️
Gode mu papirnate stranice, usporilo se vrijeme i te divne, jednostavne, začudne misli i ilustracije samo su dublje prodrle u vrlo, vrlo umornu mene koja se ovih dana sama bori s nekim egzistencijalnim temama vezanima uz ono kako želim provesti sljedećih 40 godina života.
Divna knjiga, još bolji poklon, svakako je imajte na umu kad vam treba nešto jednostavno da vas podigne iz groba (ha!). ❤️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my worst case of reader-work mismatch.
Christian Watson, under the username 1924us, has accumulated 5.7 million followers on Instagram (as of writing) through his photography and eventually his comics featuring Skelly the skeleton. His book How Lucky Am I is a compilation of this art from his page plus some bonus mini-essays related to the text. Had I known that prior to requesting and reading this ARC, I would've set my expectations appropriately.
While the autumnal-themed art is pretty, the text itself is made up of hollow and generic advice straight out of millenial eatery wall decorations such as "Never stop being a good person because of bad people." and "You are more than enough.". Even the few short write-ups that are interspersed among the comics carry the same quality and do nothing to strengthen or deepen the quotes.
This led me to his page and I found it weird that the pieces there have more variety in terms of characters, art, and narration. He wasted a chance to have something new for his the book by skipping creative possibilities such as a longer narrative style or a even a minor shake-up/experimentation to Skelly's character.
I would point anyone to check out his online work before proceeding to this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the eARC.
Christian Watson, under the username 1924us, has accumulated 5.7 million followers on Instagram (as of writing) through his photography and eventually his comics featuring Skelly the skeleton. His book How Lucky Am I is a compilation of this art from his page plus some bonus mini-essays related to the text. Had I known that prior to requesting and reading this ARC, I would've set my expectations appropriately.
While the autumnal-themed art is pretty, the text itself is made up of hollow and generic advice straight out of millenial eatery wall decorations such as "Never stop being a good person because of bad people." and "You are more than enough.". Even the few short write-ups that are interspersed among the comics carry the same quality and do nothing to strengthen or deepen the quotes.
This led me to his page and I found it weird that the pieces there have more variety in terms of characters, art, and narration. He wasted a chance to have something new for his the book by skipping creative possibilities such as a longer narrative style or a even a minor shake-up/experimentation to Skelly's character.
I would point anyone to check out his online work before proceeding to this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely fell in love with the illustrations—they were beautiful and perfectly complemented the message of the book. Every page felt deeply moving and reflective, and I found myself resonating with so much of it. I think many readers will feel the same.
This book really made me pause and think about how little time we have on this planet, and how easy it is to waste it worrying and stressing over things that may not matter in the end. Of course, that is much easier said than done—especially for us women with our hormones and overthinking! 😆
An easy five-star read for me. Honestly, if I could give it 100 stars, I would.
This book really made me pause and think about how little time we have on this planet, and how easy it is to waste it worrying and stressing over things that may not matter in the end. Of course, that is much easier said than done—especially for us women with our hormones and overthinking! 😆
An easy five-star read for me. Honestly, if I could give it 100 stars, I would.
March 21, 2026
5/✨ for How Lucky Am I by Christian Watson.
First of all, thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the ARC of this beautiful e-comic.
I am honestly on the verge of tears thinking about how something so short could make me feel so much. Beauty, sadness and above all gratitude. In this comic, the author explains that he is not afraid of death, which is why skeletons play such a central role in his art. He shares how deeply grateful he is for life. For who he is and also for who he did not become.
What truly stayed with me is the message that it’s okay not to be okay and that we should be gentle with ourselves. We don’t get extra time in life, but we do get the time we have. And we can choose to fill that time with kindness, especially toward ourselves.
I will 100% be buying a physical copy of this book and returning to it whenever I doubt myself, when life feels like it’s working against me or when I need to learn how to believe in myself again.
This was genuinely beautiful. I’m going to sit with this for a while now… and hug my children and loved ones a little tighter.
First of all, thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for the ARC of this beautiful e-comic.
I am honestly on the verge of tears thinking about how something so short could make me feel so much. Beauty, sadness and above all gratitude. In this comic, the author explains that he is not afraid of death, which is why skeletons play such a central role in his art. He shares how deeply grateful he is for life. For who he is and also for who he did not become.
What truly stayed with me is the message that it’s okay not to be okay and that we should be gentle with ourselves. We don’t get extra time in life, but we do get the time we have. And we can choose to fill that time with kindness, especially toward ourselves.
I will 100% be buying a physical copy of this book and returning to it whenever I doubt myself, when life feels like it’s working against me or when I need to learn how to believe in myself again.
This was genuinely beautiful. I’m going to sit with this for a while now… and hug my children and loved ones a little tighter.
July 30, 2026
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review, but I also ended up buying a copy!
There’s a reason why I requested this (other than my weird love of skeletons). I normally use Pinterest just for recipes, but sometimes when I can’t sleep, I’ll scroll through it, and because when I'm spiralling at night I tend to look at pithy posts or poetry snippets, a few of these Skelly posts popped up in my feed. I thought they were really nice reminders to be present in life, especially when I was stressed out.
It’s a graphic novel/coffee table book, and it’s basically just beautiful pictures combined with an artfully placed skeleton character (or two), with a few pages here and there providing some explanations or content to a set of following images. Some (jaded) people might consider them trite, but sometimes when you’re in a shitty spot in life, gentle reminders that this life is all we have and to take the time to just breathe and be kind to yourself do work to calm you down.
The pictures are soothing and often whimsical, which serve to heighten the ideas behind it. It's a lovely little book.
There’s a reason why I requested this (other than my weird love of skeletons). I normally use Pinterest just for recipes, but sometimes when I can’t sleep, I’ll scroll through it, and because when I'm spiralling at night I tend to look at pithy posts or poetry snippets, a few of these Skelly posts popped up in my feed. I thought they were really nice reminders to be present in life, especially when I was stressed out.
It’s a graphic novel/coffee table book, and it’s basically just beautiful pictures combined with an artfully placed skeleton character (or two), with a few pages here and there providing some explanations or content to a set of following images. Some (jaded) people might consider them trite, but sometimes when you’re in a shitty spot in life, gentle reminders that this life is all we have and to take the time to just breathe and be kind to yourself do work to calm you down.
The pictures are soothing and often whimsical, which serve to heighten the ideas behind it. It's a lovely little book.
July 30, 2026
„Warum ich das Leben liebe“ von Christian Watson, aus dem Englischen von Angelika Hansen übersetzt, ist für mich persönlich wesentlich mehr als nur ein unheimlich schön vom Autor selbst gestaltetes Buch und so viel mehr, als ich zu Beginn gedacht hatte. Es ist letztlich eine liebevolle Erinnerung daran den Blick wieder auf die kleinen und oft übersehenen Momente des Lebens zu richten und aus den negativ behafteten Dingen etwas gutes zu machen und in den schweren Schatten auch das Licht zu sehen. Die kurzen Texte und Illustrationen haben mich immer wieder zum Innehalten angehalten und mich einmal mehr daran erinnert, dass das Glück nicht in den großen Ereignissen steckt sondern so so oft in den ganz alltäglichen kleinen, oft auch auf den ersten Blick unscheinbaren Augenblicken. Neben den wie ich finde sehr schön gestanlteten Illustrationen, hat mich persönlich besonders die Mischung aus tiefgehenden Impulsen und der Leichtigkeit und Hoffnung, die allgegenwärtig ist sehr gefallen und abgeholt! Gerade die Figur „Mr. Skelly“, die der Autor geschaffen hat, schafft es durch Einfachheit die ernsten Themen wie Vergänglichkeit, Dankbarkeit und Hoffnung sehr schön und immer auch mal mit einer kleinen Prise Humor zu verbinden. Ich habe das Buch an einem Stück gelesen, und das wird nicht das letzte Mal gewesen sein, denn eben durch die kleinen feinen Impulse, denke ich, kann man sich immer wieder auch etwas mitnehmen, jenachdem, was einem gerade auf dem Herzen liegt oder beschäftigt.
Mein Fazit: Ein ganz wunderbares Buch für all jene, die sich gerne durch kleine Impulse anregen und durch Illustrationen abholen und begeistern lassen und sich ein bisschen an die kleinen Dingen, die so wertvoll sind erinnern lassen möchten.
Mein Fazit: Ein ganz wunderbares Buch für all jene, die sich gerne durch kleine Impulse anregen und durch Illustrationen abholen und begeistern lassen und sich ein bisschen an die kleinen Dingen, die so wertvoll sind erinnern lassen möchten.
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