Graphic Reproduction: A Comics Anthology

Graphic Reproduction is a comics anthology that explores the messy and often taboo subject of human reproduction, challenging dominant cultural narratives and providing a provocative, multidimensional portrait of one of the most basic and complicated of all human experiences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2018
Publisher: Pennsylvania State University Press

Graphic Reproduction is a groundbreaking comics anthology that delves deeply into the messy and often taboo subject of human reproduction. This captivating collection features the work of renowned artists like Carol Tyler, Alison Bechdel, and Joyce Farmer, challenging dominant cultural narratives about conception, pregnancy, and childbirth. Through a series of thought-provoking comics, the anthology exposes the contradictions, complexities, and confluences surrounding diverse individual experiences of the reproductive process, from trying to conceive to child loss and childbirth.

Jenell Johnson's introduction provides valuable context by situating comics about reproduction within the growing field of graphic medicine. She highlights how comics offer a unique platform for exploring and presenting concepts as uncertainties rather than adhering to prescribed or expected narratives. The collection showcases a diverse range of reproductive experiences and perspectives through comics such as Lyn Chevley's groundbreaking "Abortion Eve," Bethany Doane's "Pushing Back: A Home Birth Story," Leah Hayes' "Not Funny Ha-Ha," and Marcus B. Weaver-Hightower's "Losing Thomas & Ella: A Father's Story."

The result is a provocative, multifaceted portrait of one of the most basic and complicated human experiences, one that can be both hilarious and heartbreaking. Graphic Reproduction features the work of both well-known comics artists and exciting new voices, making it an important and timely resource for understanding how reproduction intersects with sociocultural issues. The afterword, along with a section of discussion exercises and questions, makes it an ideal teaching tool for educators and students alike.

In conclusion, Graphic Reproduction is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human reproduction. Through its powerful illustrations and thought-provoking narratives, the anthology offers a unique perspective on one of the most fundamental aspects of human experience, challenging our assumptions and illuminating the many ways in which reproduction shapes our lives and society.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 228 x 173 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780271080949