Title: Seconds
Author: Bryan Lee O’Malley
First published July 15, 2014
323 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780345529374 (ISBN10: 0345529375)
Rating: 4.06
Overview
Meet Katie, a talented young chef who runs a successful restaurant and has big plans for the future. But when her life takes an unexpected turn, Katie finds herself in need of a second chance.
Luckily, a mysterious girl appears with a solution: a do-it-yourself do-over. With a dresser drawer full of magical mushrooms and a desire for perfection, Katie sets out to make things right.
But breaking the rules comes with unintended consequences, and Katie soon learns that sometimes, the best intentions can lead to unexpected outcomes. From the creator of the beloved Scott Pilgrim series comes a whimsical and wise tale of young love, everyday obstacles, and the search for meaning in a world that’s anything but perfect.
About the Author
Meet Bryan Lee O’Malley, a talented Canadian cartoonist who has created some amazing work. He first made a name for himself with the original graphic novel Lost at Sea in 2003, but it’s his six-volume series Scott Pilgrim (2004-2010) that really put him on the map.
His Scott Pilgrim books were published by Oni Press, based in Portland, Oregon. In 2014, Ballantine Books released his graphic novel Seconds.
Bryan is also a musician and songwriter, going by the name Kupek and having been a part of several short-lived bands in Toronto.
Editoral Review
Seconds, written by Bryan Lee O’Malley, is a gem in the graphic novel genre. Published on July 15, 2014, this book is a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and drama that explores the complex themes of regret, growth, and acceptance.
The author, known for his critically acclaimed work Scott Pilgrim, creates a vivid and fantastical world where the protagonist, Katie, discovers a magical mushroom that grants her the power to rewrite her past. As she tries to fix her mistakes, the consequences of her actions begin to pile up, leading her down a dangerous and unpredictable path.
The plot of Seconds is a captivating and thought-provoking journey that takes readers on a unique experience. Katie is a relatable and dynamic character who is easy to root for.
The supporting cast is also well-developed, each character adding depth and nuance to the story. The setting, a cozy restaurant that serves as a backdrop for much of the story, is a character in itself, with well-crafted details that immerse the reader in the world of the story.
O’Malley’s writing is smart and witty, with an insightful commentary on contemporary society. The illustrations are a feast for the eyes, with lush and detailed artwork that beautifully complements the text.
The pacing is excellent, with tension building steadily until a satisfying conclusion. One of the most refreshing things about Seconds is the way it defies genre conventions.
The blending of sci-fi, fantasy, and drama makes for a wholly unique reading experience, and the exploration of complex themes like personal responsibility and self-forgiveness is done with aplomb. Despite its many strengths, Seconds does have a few weaknesses.
The plot can be a bit convoluted at times, and some characters could have used more development. However, these criticisms are minor in the grand scheme of things, and do not detract from the overall quality of the book.
Overall, Seconds is a masterful work of graphic fiction that is sure to appeal to a wide audience. Fans of the genre and O’Malley’s previous work will find much to love here, as will newcomers to the form.
The book is a beautiful examination of the human experience, wrapped in a wildly imaginative package. Highly recommended.
Rating: 4.5/5
