Chapter 1 Sample Blog

 

Ms. Bussey's SAMPLE BLOG-- PRACTICE COMMENT Chapter 1(pg 3)Summary (should cover the entire chapter in 5-8 sentences):  The author begins illustrating the relationship between her and her mother with a memory she has as an adult.  By describing the complex emotions she feels while having her own child, it shows a great deal of empathy for her own mother.  She begins her story by suggesting that she has a more complete understanding of why her and her mother’s relationship is strained once she becomes a mother and an adult, but it also alludes to the misunderstandings and difficult relationship they shared when she was a child. It shows a great deal of love that her mother traveled from out of state to be present for her grandchild’s birth, but the emotional distance in her relationship with her own daughter is clear when she cannot be present and supportive when her daughter would like her in the delivery room. 

Personal Reaction:  The first scene is deeply emotional, and I can already feel how personal this graphic novel is to the author and how reflective it will be of her own life and relationships.  I like that the scene is not portrayed in cliche light, but it explores the real challenges in life and the myriad of emotions one can experience all at the same time.  It is heartbreaking to me that the author is unable to feel happiness when her baby is born because she is overcome with fear and doubt about her own ability to be a good mother.

Question for Discussion:  What do you think caused her mother to want to be there to support her but to be unable to do so once she is there?  Do you think it is something about the mother’s personality or is it a reflection of the relationship the mother and daughter have?