Non-Fiction Pick of the Week: Stitches

Stitches: a memoir by David Small 2009

Author and illustrator, David Small comes from a strange family. He recounts his disturbing childhood during the 1950s in Detroit through this powerfully illustrated graphic book memoir. Echoing the misplaced faith of the times, his remote, radiologist father is convinced that “science can fix everything” and his mother carries a secret that contributes to a barely contained fury. That David eventually grows up, marries and ultimately pursues a rewarding career as an award winning illustrator for many children’s books is a testament to the resiliency of youth.

Reviewers say that “Small’s simple black and white wash captures people, emotions, relationships…with grace precision and a flawless sense of graphic narration.” David Small says he simply tried to “get rid of as many words as possible".

A Publishers Weekly Top Best book of the Year. Recommended for everyone –anyone, especially those who grew up during the 1950s and anyone who wants to sample the not-always-so-sweet nostalgia for the times. 14 and up.