Michel Rabagliati Book order

An affecting exploration of the ways our roles as parents and children change over a lifetime

Michel Rabagliati continues his award-winning semi-autobiographical Paul series in this coming-of-age story. The action takes place in 1975-76, just before and during the summer Olympics in Montreal. Paul is now 16 and in the throes of adolescence. He changes schools, hitchhikes, falls deeply in love, gets dumped, smokes pot, and drinks beer. All of this over a soundtrack of Quebec prog rock and Peter Frampton. Paul rides his new moped "up north" to the Laurentian cottage country of Quebec where he makes new friends. In the end, Paul Up North is a story about Paul's struggle to leave his adolescence behind.

Focusing on the poignant life and death of a beloved family member, the narrative unfolds as family members keep vigil over him in the hospital. Through a classic European cartooning style, the author explores profound themes of legacy and the human experience. Celebrated for its depth, this work has received multiple accolades, including the FNAC Audience Award and a Shuster Award, highlighting the author's talent. The story is set to be adapted for film, showcasing its impact and relevance in contemporary storytelling.

This work presents a captivating, semi-autobiographical narrative that blends humor and introspection. Michel Rabagliati explores personal experiences and relationships, inviting readers into his world through relatable storytelling and engaging illustrations. The memoir captures the nuances of everyday life, reflecting on themes of identity, nostalgia, and the passage of time, making it a delightful read for fans of graphic novels and memoirs alike.