Living With Viola by Rosanna Fung

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this graphic memoir. It was released November 30, 2021, by Annick Press.

This is a profound look at how personal anxiety is exacerbated by external situations. It's an important, albeit not comfortable, read. It's heart-wrenchingly brilliant. 

Olivia is the child of Chinese Immigrants. At her first day of middle school we meet Viola, her demonic alter ego, who fills Olivia's head with self loathing and fear.  Gradually Olivia becomes part of a group of friends, but even when things are going well, Viola never lets go of her grip on Olivia. When friend drama sets in, Viola completely overwhelms her. 

Olivia's feelings of inadequacy are connected to gatherings with other Chinese Immigrant families.  Rosanna Fung shows us a group of high powered adults who have high expectations for their children.  The expectation is that their children will become doctors, lawyers, or engineers - the kind of career that would end in a three figure salary, just like their parents.  Olivia and her family don't fit in. The family fakes their life so that they don't lose face.  Her father works two jobs to make ends meet.  Olivia is a gifted artist who dreams of a career connected to being able to draw. 

Thankfully, Olivia's family are mostly loving and accepting.  Her artwork is posted on display around their home.  When her parents realize what is happening, they arrange for her to see a therapist.  She learns coping strategies so that while Viola will always be there, Olivia learns how to keep her under control.  Eventually she returns to school and reconnects with her friends. 

This book is intense.  As a testimony to its emotional authenticity, I had to take a break from reading it because it triggered so much anxiety in me.  (I might have a wee Viola of my own.)  It brought to mind former students of mine. Perhaps their anxiety was not so debilitating as Olivia's, but I still worried about them then, and worry about them now.  Thankfully this book has a positive, hopeful ending. 

In this video Rosanna Fung talks about how the book is based on her own life experiences. 

Living With Viola is already on Canadian lists for one of the best graphic novels of 2021. It garnered a starred review from Kirkus and SLJ. I predict more accolades will come it's way and am certain it will be a contender for a Cybil award next year. 

I agree with SLJ, it is indeed an essential purchase.