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Lichen
You live a simple life. A life that for all its lack of glamour is a happy one lived among nature. Then a chance meeting changes everything and you encounter emotions that you have never had before.
In Stuart Kolakovic’s first graphic novel a simple deer herdsman finds that true love is not always a straight path. Beautifully told in an unique style which pays homage to the folk art of his Serbian ancestors, this will surely be seen as one of the most visually arresting graphic novels of the year.
In Stuart Kolakovic’s first graphic novel a simple deer herdsman finds that true love is not always a straight path. Beautifully told in an unique style which pays homage to the folk art of his Serbian ancestors, this will surely be seen as one of the most visually arresting graphic novels of the year.
Hardcover
First published October 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
April 26, 2021
The art is extraordinary. There are a lot of silent scenes of traveling through the woods but this never gets boring as it always looks different and there are always wonderful details to spot. You get really attached to the main character without him saying a word. There's a slight dark edge at times which makes sense because Kolakovic has also written as Herman Inclusus- I'd highly recommend his book Dismal Incantations also, but maybe try this one first if you are easily disturbed! Lichen overall has a very relaxing naturey fairy tale vibe.
November 17, 2025
This book is clearly a labour of love, gorgeously drawn in a geometric, Soviet-inspired propaganda style, and had me captivated from the very first “woof”! The wordless storytelling relies mostly on sound effects until halfway through, journing through stunning landscapes teeming with wildlife, all intricately and individually illustrated drawn.
The expressive characters, including a wonderfully tricksy and cantankerous magical creature, give the tale a folkloric, fairytale charm. By showing rather than telling, the story invites readers to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with nature, celebrating effort, exploration, and the rewards that come from taking the long way around.
The expressive characters, including a wonderfully tricksy and cantankerous magical creature, give the tale a folkloric, fairytale charm. By showing rather than telling, the story invites readers to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with nature, celebrating effort, exploration, and the rewards that come from taking the long way around.
March 5, 2026
Stunning artwork, truly stunning artwork. The story and pacing reminded me of the importance of embracing the mundane and finding the beauty in the everyday things around you. Throw in a unique silent dialogue, romance, and regret? Big fan, but do think the story could have been a tad clearer.
May 19, 2019
Eerie and beautiful, Lichen left me with a lasting impression of one of the best and most unforgettable expressions of loss and regret.
June 2, 2019
A beautiful, almost wordless graphic novel.
March 16, 2023
Beautiful art and reads like a nearly-silent film. Really enjoyed it and if felt like reading a fairy tale.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews