Bright Lights, Dark Nights
- 367 pages
- 13 hours of reading
An illustrated YA novel about first love amid racial tensions in an urban Connecticut town, from the author of Happyface.
Stephen Emond Book order
Stephen Emond is a creator drawn to independent comics that mirrored the inner landscape of his thoughts. His work often explores themes of vulnerability and personal neuroses, yet with a lightness of touch and humor. Developing his storytelling skills was significantly aided by his work on short comic strips, each requiring a distinct beginning, middle, and end. This approach is evident in his creations, where characters often grapple with unexpected and destructive forces that reflect their own emotional states.
- 2015
- 2012
Winter Town
- 352 pages
- 13 hours of reading
Every winter, straight-laced, Ivy League bound Evan looks forward to a visit from Lucy, a childhood pal who moved away after her parent's divorce. But when Lucy arrives this year, she's changed. The former "girl next door" now has chopped dyed black hair, a nose stud, and a scowl. But Evan knows that somewhere beneath the Goth, "Old Lucy" still exists, and he's determined to find her... even if it means pissing her off. Can opposites attract? Or does growing up mean having to grow apart? Told from two perspectives, this funny and honest novel by Stephen Emond (Happyface) is a unique combination of text, comic strips, and art. It's an indie movie in a book, perfect for the inner outcast and lovelorn nerd in us all.
- 2010
The evolution of a cartoonist is vividly captured through the journey of a hopeless romantic in "STEVERINO!" Created by Stephen Emond from 1997 to 2006, this self-published comic strip series chronicles the protagonist's quest for love while showcasing the challenges of creativity, including rejection and editorial feedback. Emond's dedication is evident as he shares the highs and lows of his artistic process, ultimately highlighting the passion behind his intensely personal works, including EMO BOY and HAPPYFACE.