Stephanie Jane recenzis The White Sultana de Pierre Christin
Loved the artwork
3 steloj
I chose this graphic novel because I liked the idea of its historical fiction aspect and because its illustrator, Annie Goetzinger, was reputed to be brilliant. Overall I did enjoy this story. It is set in the Far East just after the Second World War and in the decade that followed as the British Empire disintegrated. The rags to riches fairytale follows young Emma Piggott from governess to nobility and finally sultana, but we are never quite sure what is reality and what is truth. Does London-based Emma dream of Asia, or is it Asia-based Emma who has nightmares of being trapped in drab London?
I would have liked a deeper, more emotional story and felt that The White Sultana was too superficial for my tastes. However I did appreciate Goetzinger's illustrations especially the various beautifully fashionable dresses worn by the British socialites in Hong Kong. I spotted fashions changing …
I chose this graphic novel because I liked the idea of its historical fiction aspect and because its illustrator, Annie Goetzinger, was reputed to be brilliant. Overall I did enjoy this story. It is set in the Far East just after the Second World War and in the decade that followed as the British Empire disintegrated. The rags to riches fairytale follows young Emma Piggott from governess to nobility and finally sultana, but we are never quite sure what is reality and what is truth. Does London-based Emma dream of Asia, or is it Asia-based Emma who has nightmares of being trapped in drab London?
I would have liked a deeper, more emotional story and felt that The White Sultana was too superficial for my tastes. However I did appreciate Goetzinger's illustrations especially the various beautifully fashionable dresses worn by the British socialites in Hong Kong. I spotted fashions changing from slim 1940s silhouettes to Dior-style New Look skirts and beyond. The contrast between colourful Asia and monochrome London was particularly effective as well. I am not sure I would seek out more Christin stories, but I would choose more graphic novels with Goetzinger artwork.