Release: November 9th, 2021
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Amulet Paperbacks
Source: Amazon
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo.
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A human and human-presenting AI slowly become friends—and maybe more—in this moving YA graphic novel.
Shortly, augmentation and AI changed everything and nothing. Indira is a human girl who has been cybernetically augmented after a tragic accident, and Fawn is one of the first human-presenting AI. They have the same internship at a gallery, but neither thinks much of the other’s photography. But after a huge public blowout, their mentor gives them an ultimatum: work together on a project or leave her gallery forever. Grudgingly, the two begin to collaborate, and what comes out of it is astounding and revealing for both of them. Pixels of You is about the slow transformation of a rivalry to a friendship to something more as Indira and Fawn navigate each other, the world around them—and what it means to be an artist and a person.
About the Authors:
Yuko Ota & Ananth Hirsh live in Brooklyn, NY. Yuko’s a cartoonist. Ananth’s a writer. They’ve done many books and worked with a lot of clients on books, freelance, and more!
Yuko and Ananth post comics at johnnywander.com. Their latest project is titled BARBAROUS.
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Pixels of You Review:
I was lucky to receive an early advanced copy of this beautiful graphic novel. There was mostly no coloring, and the creators didn’t finalize a few sketches, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the story. The storyline is lovely, and I can imagine how gorgeous the book would look once finished.
Firstly, the story was fresh and innovative. I am not an avid reader of science-fiction, but I loved the world-building. It is interesting to see a world where AI and humans live side-by-side, exchange ideas, and adapt. It is also refreshing to see how the creators portrayed the AI world positively, rather than a cliched doomed one. Some of the scenes are deep and philosophical, making you think of our existence in the world and what our future holds.
Secondly, both the leads are raw yet charming. Fawn is bubbly and energetic, while Indira is quiet and moody. I loved them as individuals and their relationship, and they complement each other SO well. It is true what they say; love transcends boundaries. They share a beautiful friendship, and their chemistry sizzles on the pages. I loved the moments where Fawn comes to see Indira when she is resting or their initial meeting when they have to work with each other.
However, some moments felt a bit confusing. For instance, there is a scene where Indira sees demonic-like figures due to her pain. I felt as though the story might take on a supernatural angle as well. However, as I read the uncorrected copy, I am unsure if this would look different in the final draft.
Overall, “Pixels of You” is a very creative, futuristic YA romance that I would recommend reading!
