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Waves
A young woman and her wife's attempts to have a child unfold in this poetic tale that ebbs and flows like the sea.
After years of difficulty trying to have children, a young couple finally announces their pregnancy, only to have the most joyous day of their lives replaced with one of unexpected heartbreak. Their relationship is put to the test as they forge ahead, working together to rebuild themselves amidst the churning tumult of devastating loss, and ultimately facing the soul-crushing reality that they may never conceive a child of their own.
Based on author Ingrid Chabbert’s own experience, coupled with soft, sometimes dreamlike illustrations by Carole Maurel, Waves is a deeply moving story that poignantly captures a woman’s exploration of her pain in order to rediscover hope.
After years of difficulty trying to have children, a young couple finally announces their pregnancy, only to have the most joyous day of their lives replaced with one of unexpected heartbreak. Their relationship is put to the test as they forge ahead, working together to rebuild themselves amidst the churning tumult of devastating loss, and ultimately facing the soul-crushing reality that they may never conceive a child of their own.
Based on author Ingrid Chabbert’s own experience, coupled with soft, sometimes dreamlike illustrations by Carole Maurel, Waves is a deeply moving story that poignantly captures a woman’s exploration of her pain in order to rediscover hope.
96 pages, Hardcover
First published February 15, 2017
18 people are currently reading
3056 people want to read
About the author
Ingrid Chabbert
155 books69 followersIngrid Chabbert est née en 1978 en Aveyron et vit aujourd'hui à Carcassonne.
Elle écrit depuis sa plus tendre enfance, partout et sur n'importe quoi.
Elle n'a pas fait d'études de lettres mais jouer avec les mots, parler de la vie aux enfants, c'est sa passion.
Son tout premier album jeunesse est paru en 2010.
Depuis, c'est prés d'une trentaine de titres qui ont vu le jour.
Elle écrit depuis sa plus tendre enfance, partout et sur n'importe quoi.
Elle n'a pas fait d'études de lettres mais jouer avec les mots, parler de la vie aux enfants, c'est sa passion.
Son tout premier album jeunesse est paru en 2010.
Depuis, c'est prés d'une trentaine de titres qui ont vu le jour.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 699 reviews
August 9, 2019
An achingly beautiful and of course sad story of Chabbert's miscarriage and (emotional) recovery with the help of her so sweet wife. Waves function as metaphor on various levels throughout, with pastel watercolors. Very few medical details are shared, as the focus is on the emotional sea they both sail on, waves of grief and recovery. Many wordless panels and wave-y clouds and dreams of waves, and wavey hair in the wind and wavey dog tails. Another reason for few details is so that readers, maybe reflecting on their own similar experiences, could better live in the story and experience it for themselves through her.
Chabbert has published dozens of children's books and her journaling the occasion of this experience led to her decision to become a writer, though it took many y/tears for her to be ready to share this story, reaching out as she does now to her readers. In the process she kept a journal, or several books of journals, and also wrote her first children's book for her unborn child.
One special moment: In the process of grieving she sort of spontaneously begins to laugh, and her wife asks, "What?" and she says, "Oh, nothing. I just wanted to see my laughter in your eyes." I wish I could say that made me laugh, but it actually made me cry, it was so lovely and insightful about what grief and depression do to others you love, not that you can help it. You see yourself in the way others see you sometimes. Been there.
I won't (completely) spoil the ending, but it involves the reading, by her wife, of her first published book, sitting with her on a dock at the edge of the water. I am thankful for this book.
On a personal note, I was well into my thirties when I discovered my mother had had a miscarriage (and she had been pregnant for more than three months) a couple year before she had me. Why hadn't I known this before? I think in part because miscarriages work for some women/families as a kind of failure, a secret shame. Then, I am a man and this (in my family, and at that time--it may just have been contextual in my family at that time and place, I don't know) seemed to be a "women's" issue, connected to the intimate secrets of menstruation and childbirth and so on. Not for boys to know about.
I was a little hurt, though, as the closest person to me ever on this planet was my mother, and I had not known this (what I learned to be) serious loss for her. And yet it explained something: My mother was 38 when I was born. She had already had 4 children and didn't "need" any more children to be happy or fulfilled or whatever. But the family story about me is that I was welcomed into the world with more joy than any of the others. As my mother said to me, "You were such a happy baby. I think it was that we were so happy to see you come into the world. Most births are causes for celebration, but yours was kind of special, everyone was particularly excited."
But it was not until I was in my thirties that I knew part of the reason for that joy, that my birth was part of her and our family's recovery from grief. And now you know another reason why I so appreciated this book: That it was not just written for herself or grieving women, though those are the most important audiences for it. It also spoke to me (and I also have had other experiences with miscarriage, as well).
Chabbert has published dozens of children's books and her journaling the occasion of this experience led to her decision to become a writer, though it took many y/tears for her to be ready to share this story, reaching out as she does now to her readers. In the process she kept a journal, or several books of journals, and also wrote her first children's book for her unborn child.
One special moment: In the process of grieving she sort of spontaneously begins to laugh, and her wife asks, "What?" and she says, "Oh, nothing. I just wanted to see my laughter in your eyes." I wish I could say that made me laugh, but it actually made me cry, it was so lovely and insightful about what grief and depression do to others you love, not that you can help it. You see yourself in the way others see you sometimes. Been there.
I won't (completely) spoil the ending, but it involves the reading, by her wife, of her first published book, sitting with her on a dock at the edge of the water. I am thankful for this book.
On a personal note, I was well into my thirties when I discovered my mother had had a miscarriage (and she had been pregnant for more than three months) a couple year before she had me. Why hadn't I known this before? I think in part because miscarriages work for some women/families as a kind of failure, a secret shame. Then, I am a man and this (in my family, and at that time--it may just have been contextual in my family at that time and place, I don't know) seemed to be a "women's" issue, connected to the intimate secrets of menstruation and childbirth and so on. Not for boys to know about.
I was a little hurt, though, as the closest person to me ever on this planet was my mother, and I had not known this (what I learned to be) serious loss for her. And yet it explained something: My mother was 38 when I was born. She had already had 4 children and didn't "need" any more children to be happy or fulfilled or whatever. But the family story about me is that I was welcomed into the world with more joy than any of the others. As my mother said to me, "You were such a happy baby. I think it was that we were so happy to see you come into the world. Most births are causes for celebration, but yours was kind of special, everyone was particularly excited."
But it was not until I was in my thirties that I knew part of the reason for that joy, that my birth was part of her and our family's recovery from grief. And now you know another reason why I so appreciated this book: That it was not just written for herself or grieving women, though those are the most important audiences for it. It also spoke to me (and I also have had other experiences with miscarriage, as well).
March 11, 2020
Una historia dura.
En Espuma se narra un suceso basado en la experiencia real de Ingrid Chabbert, escritora de cuentos infantiles francesa. En esta novela gráfica contada con mimo, podemos ver cómo es la superación de un aborto en una pareja.
El uso de los colores me ha parecido magnífico: en blanco y negro para la depresión post-aborto, y poco a poco con toques de color en cosas muy concretas. Por ejemplo: la protagonista ve todo en tonos de gris, pero el cuaderno donde escribe tiene un color vivo, al igual que su mujer, y poco a poco, la psicóloga, un café que se toma... Cada viñeta va adquiriendo nuevas tonalidades, y con el paso del tiempo, se ve claramente la superación del trauma.
Espuma es una novela gráfica dura, bien narrada y que te remueve por dentro.
En Espuma se narra un suceso basado en la experiencia real de Ingrid Chabbert, escritora de cuentos infantiles francesa. En esta novela gráfica contada con mimo, podemos ver cómo es la superación de un aborto en una pareja.
El uso de los colores me ha parecido magnífico: en blanco y negro para la depresión post-aborto, y poco a poco con toques de color en cosas muy concretas. Por ejemplo: la protagonista ve todo en tonos de gris, pero el cuaderno donde escribe tiene un color vivo, al igual que su mujer, y poco a poco, la psicóloga, un café que se toma... Cada viñeta va adquiriendo nuevas tonalidades, y con el paso del tiempo, se ve claramente la superación del trauma.
Espuma es una novela gráfica dura, bien narrada y que te remueve por dentro.
February 4, 2019
A heart-wrenching autobiographical story about a lesbian couple dealing with a miscarriage. Carole Maurel's art is fantastic, especially how color or the lack of it is incorporated into the book. After tragedy strikes, the color shifts to black and white. Color slowly seeps back into the book as the couple processes their loss and learns how to move on with their life. It's a powerful use of the comics medium that really packs a punch and delivers the characters' emotions.
Received a review copy from Archaia and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Received a review copy from Archaia and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
September 16, 2021
LGBTQIAP representation, heartwarming illustrations, supportive partners, amazing storytelling.
A difficult read for me as it handles issues which I get to see some patients struggle with the most during most days. It's accurately presented. I liked how such difficult topics have been presented with sensitivity and care.
Also, appreciate the parts where therapy sessions have been shown (though I wish it was more elaborate) and how the process of journalling was actually helping the character to cope with everything.
And that random canine I would ever ask for when life gets tough like this.
Warnings for difficult pregnancy and loss.
***Taking a moment*** just to appreciate the illustrations and the art sequence.
One of the best I say.
A difficult read for me as it handles issues which I get to see some patients struggle with the most during most days. It's accurately presented. I liked how such difficult topics have been presented with sensitivity and care.
Also, appreciate the parts where therapy sessions have been shown (though I wish it was more elaborate) and how the process of journalling was actually helping the character to cope with everything.
And that random canine I would ever ask for when life gets tough like this.
Warnings for difficult pregnancy and loss.
***Taking a moment*** just to appreciate the illustrations and the art sequence.
One of the best I say.
July 4, 2023
WAVES, written by Ingrid Chabbert and beautifully illustrated by Carole Maurel, is a deeply personal and poetic graphic novel that explores the profound journey of a young couple trying to conceive. Drawing from the author's own experience, the story delves into the emotional depths of heartbreak, resilience, and the power of hope. The use of metaphors in Waves is exceptional, creating a mesmerizing reading experience. Chabbert skillfully weaves together the themes of writing, coping, and healing, forming a profound connection between the protagonist's pain and her quest for renewal. The dreamlike illustrations by Carole Maurel add an ethereal touch to the narrative, particularly in the visual depiction of the boat and waves of paper. While the subject matter is emotionally intense, WAVES is an extraordinary work that invites readers to embrace vulnerability and contemplate the complexities of life. I highly recommend this graphic novel to those who appreciate poignant storytelling and are open to exploring the depths of human emotions.
#dogsofinstagram #bookstagram #dogsandbooks #bookishlife #bookishlove #bookstagrammer #books #booklover #bookish #bookaholic #reading #readersofinstagram #instaread #ilovebooks #bookishcanadians #canadianbookstagram #bookreviewer #bookcommunity #bibliophile #WAVES #IngridChabbert #CaroleMaurel #Archaia #GraphicNovel #bookreview
December 22, 2018
Content warnings for miscarriage, loss of child, infertility, depression
I don't know what I was thinking requesting an eARC of this graphic novel.
It was beautiful, and tragic, and so honest, and well-done... and one of the most miserable things I've ever read. I couldn't stop sobbing. Waves is brutal and, despite how great of a graphic novel it is, I wouldn't even know who to recommend this to because it's so sad. That said, it easily deserves the 5-star rating I'm giving it. I especially loved the snippets with the woman in the boat, and the way her progress paralleled with her healing journey.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go hug my little rainbow baby and cry some more. I genuinely hope that Ingrid Chabbert and her partner have found peace and healing. ♥
Thank you so much to BOOM! Studios for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Based on the author's personal experiences with her partner, Waves follows a couple trying to have a baby, and the ways they are forced to find healing afterwards.
I don't know what I was thinking requesting an eARC of this graphic novel.
It was beautiful, and tragic, and so honest, and well-done... and one of the most miserable things I've ever read. I couldn't stop sobbing. Waves is brutal and, despite how great of a graphic novel it is, I wouldn't even know who to recommend this to because it's so sad. That said, it easily deserves the 5-star rating I'm giving it. I especially loved the snippets with the woman in the boat, and the way her progress paralleled with her healing journey.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go hug my little rainbow baby and cry some more. I genuinely hope that Ingrid Chabbert and her partner have found peace and healing. ♥
Thank you so much to BOOM! Studios for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 10, 2025
A heces nos ahogamos en un mar infinito.
Tan rojo como un corazón que deja de latir.
Miramos la superfície y la encrucijada submarina: ascender o dejarse levar.
“Espuma” é um romance gráfico que se lê de coração apertado desde a primeira ilustração, pois paira desde logo o presságio de que algo não vai correr bem. E, de facto, não corre na gravidez desta mulher que, depois da tragédia, boia apenas como espuma ao vogar das ondas, mas sem nunca perder o apoio da sua serena companheira, nem a vontade de passar para o papel os seus pensamentos, que no final dão origem a um conto infantil.
Uma forte dupla feminina num momento autobiográfico de Ingrid Chabbert, autora de livros infantis.
Tan rojo como un corazón que deja de latir.
Miramos la superfície y la encrucijada submarina: ascender o dejarse levar.
“Espuma” é um romance gráfico que se lê de coração apertado desde a primeira ilustração, pois paira desde logo o presságio de que algo não vai correr bem. E, de facto, não corre na gravidez desta mulher que, depois da tragédia, boia apenas como espuma ao vogar das ondas, mas sem nunca perder o apoio da sua serena companheira, nem a vontade de passar para o papel os seus pensamentos, que no final dão origem a um conto infantil.
Uma forte dupla feminina num momento autobiográfico de Ingrid Chabbert, autora de livros infantis.
December 31, 2018
This is a story of two lesbians journey of losing a child. Regardless of the gender of your spouse (or your own gender) this story of miscarriage is very poignant. The use of colour (or lack thereof) to demonstrate times of grief and depression is really well done. Especially when the colours slowly start to show up in the panels of this graphic novel.
Based on writer Ingrid Chabbert’s true story of losing a baby; there is no denying that this is a story that is difficult but important to tell. Even today in modern healthcare countries there is still an approximate 30% pregnancy loss rate. And 1 in 5 woman are infertile. They either cannot have a child or carry to term successfully. With these kinds of numbers you’d expect our society to be so much better at handling this kind of loss; but instead we often hide these stories of grief and despair, which is of no help to anyone.
As a woman who cannot carry a baby to term and who (it is believed) lost a child early on as a teenager; Waves invoked an emotional response in me. I don’t often regret that I can’t have children. If one in five women are unable to; I’m glad to be one of the five so that my friends who were desperate to have children have been able to. As my age reaches the inevitable “point of no return” to try to have a child (I’m 35) there is an odd sense of leaving something behind even if I don’t want a child. Damn biology.
I felt like the illustrations of being lost at sea in Waves really captured the feeling many women have that they are floating or drowning alone with no one to help them. Whether you mourn a child that you never saw, a child that was fully formed, or a child that took only a few breathes; I think you will find some comfort in Waves.
Graphic novels can tell a story so eloquently sometimes without needing to have the right words, or any words at all. Carole Maurel has illustrated the emotions felt when words are not enough to explain. The strong story boarding, use of colour and select words at just the right time make Waves a truly special book and one that will hopefully help others feel like they are not alone.
To read this and more of my reviews visit my blog at Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
Based on writer Ingrid Chabbert’s true story of losing a baby; there is no denying that this is a story that is difficult but important to tell. Even today in modern healthcare countries there is still an approximate 30% pregnancy loss rate. And 1 in 5 woman are infertile. They either cannot have a child or carry to term successfully. With these kinds of numbers you’d expect our society to be so much better at handling this kind of loss; but instead we often hide these stories of grief and despair, which is of no help to anyone.
As a woman who cannot carry a baby to term and who (it is believed) lost a child early on as a teenager; Waves invoked an emotional response in me. I don’t often regret that I can’t have children. If one in five women are unable to; I’m glad to be one of the five so that my friends who were desperate to have children have been able to. As my age reaches the inevitable “point of no return” to try to have a child (I’m 35) there is an odd sense of leaving something behind even if I don’t want a child. Damn biology.
I felt like the illustrations of being lost at sea in Waves really captured the feeling many women have that they are floating or drowning alone with no one to help them. Whether you mourn a child that you never saw, a child that was fully formed, or a child that took only a few breathes; I think you will find some comfort in Waves.
Graphic novels can tell a story so eloquently sometimes without needing to have the right words, or any words at all. Carole Maurel has illustrated the emotions felt when words are not enough to explain. The strong story boarding, use of colour and select words at just the right time make Waves a truly special book and one that will hopefully help others feel like they are not alone.
To read this and more of my reviews visit my blog at Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
April 14, 2021
sad sapphics
May 8, 2019
Waves is a heartbreaking and simultaneously hopeful graphic novel, that gives those who haven't experienced anything like this just a small glimpse into what it must feel like, and those who have, some hope and the feeling of not being alone.
The art is absolutely breathtaking. It especially portrays the emotions incredibly well and is what makes it so easy to understand what and how the characters are feeling. I don't think there is a way to express this pain in words and that is what really makes the art essential to this work.
This is a graphic novel that manages to portray one of the worst experiences that can happen to someone in a way that is absolutely devastating and painful but also so very beautiful and hopeful.
On top of all this, it is from the point of view of a woman in a same-sex relationship, which made getting pregnant a different and much more difficult experience than many couples will ever know. I'm glad Ingrid Chabbert decided to share this story with us.
I'd be careful going into it if you have experienced a miscarriage or loss of child yourself. While this can surely be a healing read, it is also A LOT. I have never experienced anything even close to this and it still absolutely broke me.
I don't think I could've handled this if I had first-hand experience, despite the hope in it. For everyone else this should be a must-read as this will bring you as close as possible to understanding this experience.
Content and trigger warnings for miscarriage, depression, blood.
♦ Booktube Channel ♦ Twitter ♦ Instagram ♦
I received an ARC of this through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
The art is absolutely breathtaking. It especially portrays the emotions incredibly well and is what makes it so easy to understand what and how the characters are feeling. I don't think there is a way to express this pain in words and that is what really makes the art essential to this work.
This is a graphic novel that manages to portray one of the worst experiences that can happen to someone in a way that is absolutely devastating and painful but also so very beautiful and hopeful.
On top of all this, it is from the point of view of a woman in a same-sex relationship, which made getting pregnant a different and much more difficult experience than many couples will ever know. I'm glad Ingrid Chabbert decided to share this story with us.
I'd be careful going into it if you have experienced a miscarriage or loss of child yourself. While this can surely be a healing read, it is also A LOT. I have never experienced anything even close to this and it still absolutely broke me.
I don't think I could've handled this if I had first-hand experience, despite the hope in it. For everyone else this should be a must-read as this will bring you as close as possible to understanding this experience.
Content and trigger warnings for miscarriage, depression, blood.
♦ Booktube Channel ♦ Twitter ♦ Instagram ♦
I received an ARC of this through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
January 4, 2020
Okay so I'm going to get a bit personal on here.
A few years back my wife miscarriage with our first child. It was probably one of the biggest challenges in our lives. Both together and dealing with our own loss. I shut myself away from her and just about everyone, and she went into depression. It took a long time, and many other stumbles, before we got back up. But it was one of the hardest points in our lives.
Waves is about two ladies who finally get pregnant and are ready to create the family they've been waiting for. But soon into the story they go through complications. It's not a secret that they lose the child, it's on the description. It's all about the journey of recovery. This book focuses on the trip back from the traumatizing events of both ladies, but mostly the one who had carried the child.
It's the brutal and honest look into it all that made me read this all in one go in twenty minutes. The complications at birth, or even before, ring too true to me. Even some of the things in our recent birth, where we did have our child, came up with huge complications (9 pound baby will do that, my poor little wife =O) but it's the loss and the fight to return to "normal" is the most powerful. I could relate to a lot of it.
With the art I really loved the idea of going from color to all black and white, and as life returned to normal (as normal as you can be) the color returned to certain items and people. It was dealing with depression in a way I haven't seen and I loved it.
The only negative is sometimes the dialogue seems a little off, mostly between the married couple, but it wasn't enough to bother me much. This is a must read, even if can't relate, I believe you can appreciate the honesty coming from this storyteller. A 4.5-5 out of 5.
A few years back my wife miscarriage with our first child. It was probably one of the biggest challenges in our lives. Both together and dealing with our own loss. I shut myself away from her and just about everyone, and she went into depression. It took a long time, and many other stumbles, before we got back up. But it was one of the hardest points in our lives.
Waves is about two ladies who finally get pregnant and are ready to create the family they've been waiting for. But soon into the story they go through complications. It's not a secret that they lose the child, it's on the description. It's all about the journey of recovery. This book focuses on the trip back from the traumatizing events of both ladies, but mostly the one who had carried the child.
It's the brutal and honest look into it all that made me read this all in one go in twenty minutes. The complications at birth, or even before, ring too true to me. Even some of the things in our recent birth, where we did have our child, came up with huge complications (9 pound baby will do that, my poor little wife =O) but it's the loss and the fight to return to "normal" is the most powerful. I could relate to a lot of it.
With the art I really loved the idea of going from color to all black and white, and as life returned to normal (as normal as you can be) the color returned to certain items and people. It was dealing with depression in a way I haven't seen and I loved it.
The only negative is sometimes the dialogue seems a little off, mostly between the married couple, but it wasn't enough to bother me much. This is a must read, even if can't relate, I believe you can appreciate the honesty coming from this storyteller. A 4.5-5 out of 5.
December 30, 2021
A devastating yet profound portrait of grief and healing about a queer woman's journey following a miscarriage.
December 11, 2018
When you are a lesbian, it is a little harder to conceive, and much more expensive. Trust me, I know all about this. I've been there, done that, have the kid to prove it.
So, this very moving story, based on the authors attempts to become a parent, cut to the bone, probably more so for me, than those out there who have not had to go through what she went through to try to become a parent.
The pictures are moving as well.
I was deeply touched by this story. Death of anyone is hard to take, but to lose a baby before it is even born is so hard.
The story is slow, and close to the heart. The outcome is pleasing, however, and reflects the authors journey as well.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
So, this very moving story, based on the authors attempts to become a parent, cut to the bone, probably more so for me, than those out there who have not had to go through what she went through to try to become a parent.
The pictures are moving as well.
I was deeply touched by this story. Death of anyone is hard to take, but to lose a baby before it is even born is so hard.
The story is slow, and close to the heart. The outcome is pleasing, however, and reflects the authors journey as well.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
February 6, 2021
Both heartbreaking and beautiful.
5 stars
5 stars
April 24, 2020
| Reader Fox Blog |
A children's book author, Ingrid Chabbert sets off to share the painful story of sharing her struggles with her inability to have a child and the loss of one via miscarriage in graphic novel format. A short, though not entirely sweet due to the sad nature of the story, the novel begins with a young woman and her wife as they embark on the journey to have a child together and face a number of struggles, many of which lead to the unending challenge of facing the days ahead of you after the loss of your child. Waves is a truly emotional story that, depending on who you are and how you feel about the subject, may be an easy or difficult graphic novel to read.
Though I have not yet reached a point in my life where I am trying to have a child nor have I ever had to experience the devastation that the author of this novel has I truly felt very close to this story. Infertility has always been a rather strong fear of mine, one that I am almost certain I will have a rather difficult time working through should it ever be an issue in the future. I have as a result, on occasion delved into these type of stories, I suppose in an almost preparation for the possibility.
Waves is a thoroughly personal journey that I feel a number of women may be able to connect with on some level, one that deserves respect and empathy. I couldn't appreciate more Ingrid's decision to share this difficult moment in her life with the rest of the world and I hope that someone somewhere out there is helped by her story and her words. The artwork is pretty phenomenal as well and definitely manages to impressively capture the moments and the emotions that go along with them. I'm very glad to have received a copy of this book.
I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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A children's book author, Ingrid Chabbert sets off to share the painful story of sharing her struggles with her inability to have a child and the loss of one via miscarriage in graphic novel format. A short, though not entirely sweet due to the sad nature of the story, the novel begins with a young woman and her wife as they embark on the journey to have a child together and face a number of struggles, many of which lead to the unending challenge of facing the days ahead of you after the loss of your child. Waves is a truly emotional story that, depending on who you are and how you feel about the subject, may be an easy or difficult graphic novel to read.
Though I have not yet reached a point in my life where I am trying to have a child nor have I ever had to experience the devastation that the author of this novel has I truly felt very close to this story. Infertility has always been a rather strong fear of mine, one that I am almost certain I will have a rather difficult time working through should it ever be an issue in the future. I have as a result, on occasion delved into these type of stories, I suppose in an almost preparation for the possibility.
Waves is a thoroughly personal journey that I feel a number of women may be able to connect with on some level, one that deserves respect and empathy. I couldn't appreciate more Ingrid's decision to share this difficult moment in her life with the rest of the world and I hope that someone somewhere out there is helped by her story and her words. The artwork is pretty phenomenal as well and definitely manages to impressively capture the moments and the emotions that go along with them. I'm very glad to have received a copy of this book.
I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
| Instagram | Twitter | Reader Fox Blog | Bloglovin’ | Facebook |
June 19, 2019
I admire the painful story of loss and recovery at the center of this book, especially since it is told from the perspective of a lesbian couple, an angle I have not seen before. However, the dream and fantasy sequences, writing samples from the protagonist’s journal, and heavy-handed metaphors just sank this book into a sea of pretentiousness. It also suffered in comparison to the unadorned and moving style of the graphic memoir I had read earlier the same day: Dear Scarlet: The Story of My Postpartum Depression.
March 31, 2019
Waves is a heartbreaking, profound and beautiful graphic novel.
The story is a simple one, an event repeated time after time throughout the world. A long awaited pregnancy brings hope and happiness to a young couple. What follows is reflected in the first few desolate scenes when a young woman and her wife come to terms with their tragic loss. The artwork is vivid, the colours reflective of the emotions of the moms and how they come to terms with the loss of their child. I don’t remember when I’ve been so moved by a story and have to think the visuals amplify the reader's response to the scenes on the page. it’s a beautiful combination and a book I will never forget.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
The story is a simple one, an event repeated time after time throughout the world. A long awaited pregnancy brings hope and happiness to a young couple. What follows is reflected in the first few desolate scenes when a young woman and her wife come to terms with their tragic loss. The artwork is vivid, the colours reflective of the emotions of the moms and how they come to terms with the loss of their child. I don’t remember when I’ve been so moved by a story and have to think the visuals amplify the reader's response to the scenes on the page. it’s a beautiful combination and a book I will never forget.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
February 9, 2019
"Think of yourself as dung beetles [...] Dung beetles lug their ball of dung around...we all have our own ball of dung to lug around. We're all dung beetles, in our own way."
This graphic novel is absolutely beautiful. Not only is the art stunning and well made but the story itself is so raw and heartbreaking. It fills me both with warmth and sadness.
Ingrid Chabbert tells us the story of a lesbian couple who finally gets pregnant after a long time trying. But things doesn't go as planned and because of what happens the main characters spirals down into a heavy and dark depression. What slowly helps her get back on her feet is writing.
The topics that is brought to the light in this graphic novel is so incredibly important and the story itself needs to be read by everyone. I'm so thankful for Ingrid Chabbert, Carole Maurel, BOOM! Studios and Net Galley for letting me read this pearl.
The illustrations are brimming with colors, life and imagination while at other times they are filled with sorrow, darkness and a cold blanket of sadness. I haven't seen any of Maurel's work before but I absolutely adore her way of portraying both the characters and feelings in this graphic novel. The way she so vividly showed the reader the difference between happy and sad moments is simply magnificent.
After this incredible read I barely can wait to read more of Ingrid Chabbert's work! I'm intrigued to find out what else she's written and if these stories also are filled with important topics and heartbreaking — and later on heartwarming — moments.
I can’t wait to have this book in my hands!
Thank you BOOM! Studios & Net Galley for the e-ARC of "Waves" by Ingrid Chabbert and Carole Maurel (illustrator).
❤️This review will soon be up on my Instagram @sannareads as well, along with a creative picture including the graphic novel!
This graphic novel is absolutely beautiful. Not only is the art stunning and well made but the story itself is so raw and heartbreaking. It fills me both with warmth and sadness.
Ingrid Chabbert tells us the story of a lesbian couple who finally gets pregnant after a long time trying. But things doesn't go as planned and because of what happens the main characters spirals down into a heavy and dark depression. What slowly helps her get back on her feet is writing.
The topics that is brought to the light in this graphic novel is so incredibly important and the story itself needs to be read by everyone. I'm so thankful for Ingrid Chabbert, Carole Maurel, BOOM! Studios and Net Galley for letting me read this pearl.
The illustrations are brimming with colors, life and imagination while at other times they are filled with sorrow, darkness and a cold blanket of sadness. I haven't seen any of Maurel's work before but I absolutely adore her way of portraying both the characters and feelings in this graphic novel. The way she so vividly showed the reader the difference between happy and sad moments is simply magnificent.
After this incredible read I barely can wait to read more of Ingrid Chabbert's work! I'm intrigued to find out what else she's written and if these stories also are filled with important topics and heartbreaking — and later on heartwarming — moments.
I can’t wait to have this book in my hands!
Thank you BOOM! Studios & Net Galley for the e-ARC of "Waves" by Ingrid Chabbert and Carole Maurel (illustrator).
❤️This review will soon be up on my Instagram @sannareads as well, along with a creative picture including the graphic novel!
April 13, 2020
Waves was a beautifully poignant story based on the author's real life experience of dealing with miscarriage/s. This book was painfully raw at times and made me pretty emotional. Whilst I have never been pregnant, I can only imagine the absolute devastation the two women in this book must have felt, alongside guilt, frustration, anger and hope that eventually they will have a child.
The story was pretty muted throughout - there wasn't a tonne of dialogue - but I thought this worked really well considering the tough subject mater; the artwork was beautiful too and I felt swept away in the plethora of emotions the characters felt.
My only reservation was that this was on the short side and I really think it could have been longer - I know I would have really appreciated a longer discussion on this.
The story was pretty muted throughout - there wasn't a tonne of dialogue - but I thought this worked really well considering the tough subject mater; the artwork was beautiful too and I felt swept away in the plethora of emotions the characters felt.
My only reservation was that this was on the short side and I really think it could have been longer - I know I would have really appreciated a longer discussion on this.
August 20, 2023
A very moving story, and the illustrations are perfect.
December 30, 2021
Bardzo poruszająca tematyka (opowieść o miłości dwóch kobiet, staraniach o ciążę, stracie i życiu po niej), jednak realizacja dość pospieszna, przez co miejscami spłaszczona (i jest to dość niewygodny zarzut zważywszy na to, że to komiks autobiograficzny). Za to fantastycznie narysowany! Szalenie podobały mi się ilustracje, kolory, rozkład, koncept i ukazane emocje. Tempo trochę mniej, stąd średnia 4/5.
June 14, 2021
Reggeli sírás: pipa. Ez a kötet megtépázta a lelkem, aztán befoltozgatta.
Szeretetről és gyászról szól, és arról, hogyan lehet feldolgozni egy gyermek elvesztését. Már a 24. oldalon megkönnyeztem az egészet.
Nem húzza szét a történetet, tömören fejti ki az eseményeket. Igazából olvastam volna tovább, de ettől függetlenül a szívembe markolt, és a képvilággal együtt megadta az élményt, amit ígért.
Nagyon tetszett, hogy a gyászfeldolgozás folyamatát azzal érzékeltették még jobban, hogy a színvilágot először fekete-fehérré tették, majd ahogy fokozatosan sikerült az írónőnek feldolgoznia a történeteket, és folytatni az életét, úgy jöttek vissza lassan a színek is.
Nagyon rövid olvasmány, de garantáltan erős érzelmeket ébreszt az emberben.
Szeretetről és gyászról szól, és arról, hogyan lehet feldolgozni egy gyermek elvesztését. Már a 24. oldalon megkönnyeztem az egészet.
Nem húzza szét a történetet, tömören fejti ki az eseményeket. Igazából olvastam volna tovább, de ettől függetlenül a szívembe markolt, és a képvilággal együtt megadta az élményt, amit ígért.
Nagyon tetszett, hogy a gyászfeldolgozás folyamatát azzal érzékeltették még jobban, hogy a színvilágot először fekete-fehérré tették, majd ahogy fokozatosan sikerült az írónőnek feldolgoznia a történeteket, és folytatni az életét, úgy jöttek vissza lassan a színek is.
Nagyon rövid olvasmány, de garantáltan erős érzelmeket ébreszt az emberben.
February 4, 2019
4.5 étoiles | Cette histoire graphique est belle, touchante, émouvante, poignante qui dépeint la reconstruction d'un couple lesbien après l'envie et l'attente d'accueillir un être cher dans sa famille après maintes reprises. Lecture rapide que je vous recommande. :)
March 21, 2022
WAVES
Ingrid Chabbert
WOW, I am really stuck on conception today! The title, "WAVES" is indicative of the ups and downs faced in real life. The story's modern couple struggles to conceive a child and then after an explosion of joy, there is the unexpected drop when the wife loses the baby. One thing I noted was that even in this book the partner's emotions were slightly ignored when the wife miscarried.
The graphic novel seems to be a great way to express so much of the couple's pain without using any words. The illustrations are simply beautiful in a dreamlike state. I was moved by the illustrations and the story.
4 stars
Happy REading!
Ingrid Chabbert
WOW, I am really stuck on conception today! The title, "WAVES" is indicative of the ups and downs faced in real life. The story's modern couple struggles to conceive a child and then after an explosion of joy, there is the unexpected drop when the wife loses the baby. One thing I noted was that even in this book the partner's emotions were slightly ignored when the wife miscarried.
The graphic novel seems to be a great way to express so much of the couple's pain without using any words. The illustrations are simply beautiful in a dreamlike state. I was moved by the illustrations and the story.
4 stars
Happy REading!
January 14, 2019
Waves is one of the most well put together comic that will make you dive into emotions through the changing color schemes and through the amazingly portrayed characters. It revolves around a woman who loses her child in a miscarriage and finds herself amidst a dark thought process--almost like she's drowning and that's depicted in a few illustrations parallel to the main storyline. It's a story about her finding her own smile again, of finding her inner writer, of finding herself and all this when mixed with her supportive partner is a story of loving despite the loss.
I received a digital copy of this via Netgalley. Thank you, Ingrid Chabbert and Archaia!
"We all have our own ball of dung to lug around."
I received a digital copy of this via Netgalley. Thank you, Ingrid Chabbert and Archaia!
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June 10, 2019
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September 3, 2019
Book blurb: After years of difficulty trying to have children, a young couple finally announces their pregnancy, only to have the most joyous day of their lives replaced with one of unexpected heartbreak.
"Sometimes we drown, drinking in the sea. A sea as red as a heart that's stopped beating."
Grief is both universal and incredibly personal, and while I acknowledge the pain and suffering that the author and her partner experienced, I did not find this a compelling read. That is uncomfortable for me to say. It feels like a judgement of sorts, but really, all I'm talking about here are my thoughts on this autobiographical graphic novel.
I did appreciate that the story did not cover years of this journey, but starts with at a very specific point in time. That this lesbian couple struggles, loves, and support each other comes through quite clearly. I so appreciate that the fact of a miscarriage and its after effects gets pulled out of the shadows, and a light shone on a heartbreaking event that is often kept secret. I loved the illustration style and the colors used, but given the subject matter, the text was rather pedestrian. This is an adult comic, so I expected more. It's translated from the French, so maybe something was lost in translation. Either way, this is one I expected to have a bigger impact on me than it did. I've recently read and liked several picture books by the author, but this one didn't work as well for me.
"Sometimes we drown, drinking in the sea. A sea as red as a heart that's stopped beating."
Grief is both universal and incredibly personal, and while I acknowledge the pain and suffering that the author and her partner experienced, I did not find this a compelling read. That is uncomfortable for me to say. It feels like a judgement of sorts, but really, all I'm talking about here are my thoughts on this autobiographical graphic novel.
I did appreciate that the story did not cover years of this journey, but starts with at a very specific point in time. That this lesbian couple struggles, loves, and support each other comes through quite clearly. I so appreciate that the fact of a miscarriage and its after effects gets pulled out of the shadows, and a light shone on a heartbreaking event that is often kept secret. I loved the illustration style and the colors used, but given the subject matter, the text was rather pedestrian. This is an adult comic, so I expected more. It's translated from the French, so maybe something was lost in translation. Either way, this is one I expected to have a bigger impact on me than it did. I've recently read and liked several picture books by the author, but this one didn't work as well for me.
March 31, 2019
4,5*
This graphic novel follows a lesbian couple, and the loss they experience when they lose their unborn child. We see the struggle, and we see them desperately trying to continue on with their lives after they seem to have lost a part of themselves.
Absolutely heartbreaking, and beautiful, and hopeful, this story made me cry my way through many emotions. The artwork was done phenomenally and truly added to the story. The black-and-white slowly turning to colour again was a great metaphor, and I can imagine that it must feel like that after a loss. Overall, a very insightful story and a beautiful read.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The book gets released on May 7th, 2019.
This graphic novel follows a lesbian couple, and the loss they experience when they lose their unborn child. We see the struggle, and we see them desperately trying to continue on with their lives after they seem to have lost a part of themselves.
Absolutely heartbreaking, and beautiful, and hopeful, this story made me cry my way through many emotions. The artwork was done phenomenally and truly added to the story. The black-and-white slowly turning to colour again was a great metaphor, and I can imagine that it must feel like that after a loss. Overall, a very insightful story and a beautiful read.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The book gets released on May 7th, 2019.
September 20, 2021
A short, touching graphic novel about a couple losing a child after years of attempting to conceive. At just under 100 pages, it's too short to really plumb the depths of their despair, but it was a nice read - the color bleeding back into her life was an obvious but well-done metaphor for her emotional recovery.
March 21, 2019
I received this as an eARC from Netgalley and the publisher Archaia in exchange for my open and honest review.
We all have that moment where we are storm-tossed and sheltering in a proverbial dingy clinging for safety. A moment where we look upon the future, and it seems like nothing more than waves crashing against the boat. Miscarriage, but really infertility in general, is one of those things that can toss you among the crashing waves and cause you to have to find your way back home. It is damaging, brutal, heart wrenching and prompts you to question everything you have ever held dear. It is also one of those things that are rarely discussed but affects so many. In Ingrid Chabbert graphic novel, Waves” she speaks of the before, during, and after of miscarriage and heartbreak after suffering miscarriage. It is poignant and painful, and she broke my heart as she stood in her little boat and faced a future among the crashing ways after a miscarriage. She is fierce in the most real sense of the world, and she broke my damn heart…
This story is a true story of Ingrid Chabbert and her partner’s struggle with infertility, pregnancy, and miscarriage and then the struggle back to the light of life afterward. Anyone at all who has dealt with infertility can tell you how devastating it can be on every aspect of your life. Pregnancy is everywhere from the woman at the grocery store to adds on TV. It is such an important book to write and create because no one wants to talk candidly about it. With pregnancy rates as they are 1 in 10 women are infertile or have problems staying pregnant. This is such a real struggle, and that is 6 million women out there that have to contend with this every day.
No one wants to tell stories like this; it is as if our collective culture thinks something like infertility is a catchable disease like cooties or chicken pox. But Chabbert does, and she tells it beautifully. Not only is it a gripping and emotional read, but it is also beautifully rendered by Carole Maurel. Each page is done in a kaleidoscope of soft and beautiful colors and the images Maurel created of Chabbert being lost among the sea’s waves are so right and so real.
Readers and people appreciative of graphic novels should read this. She put her heart out there and her journey with this story, and this is an incredible work of art.
We all have that moment where we are storm-tossed and sheltering in a proverbial dingy clinging for safety. A moment where we look upon the future, and it seems like nothing more than waves crashing against the boat. Miscarriage, but really infertility in general, is one of those things that can toss you among the crashing waves and cause you to have to find your way back home. It is damaging, brutal, heart wrenching and prompts you to question everything you have ever held dear. It is also one of those things that are rarely discussed but affects so many. In Ingrid Chabbert graphic novel, Waves” she speaks of the before, during, and after of miscarriage and heartbreak after suffering miscarriage. It is poignant and painful, and she broke my heart as she stood in her little boat and faced a future among the crashing ways after a miscarriage. She is fierce in the most real sense of the world, and she broke my damn heart…
This story is a true story of Ingrid Chabbert and her partner’s struggle with infertility, pregnancy, and miscarriage and then the struggle back to the light of life afterward. Anyone at all who has dealt with infertility can tell you how devastating it can be on every aspect of your life. Pregnancy is everywhere from the woman at the grocery store to adds on TV. It is such an important book to write and create because no one wants to talk candidly about it. With pregnancy rates as they are 1 in 10 women are infertile or have problems staying pregnant. This is such a real struggle, and that is 6 million women out there that have to contend with this every day.
No one wants to tell stories like this; it is as if our collective culture thinks something like infertility is a catchable disease like cooties or chicken pox. But Chabbert does, and she tells it beautifully. Not only is it a gripping and emotional read, but it is also beautifully rendered by Carole Maurel. Each page is done in a kaleidoscope of soft and beautiful colors and the images Maurel created of Chabbert being lost among the sea’s waves are so right and so real.
Readers and people appreciative of graphic novels should read this. She put her heart out there and her journey with this story, and this is an incredible work of art.
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