cover image What Does Consent Really Mean?

What Does Consent Really Mean?

Pete and Thalia Wallis, illus. by Joseph Wilkins. Singing Dragon, $21.95 (64p) ISBN 978-1-84819-330-7

First published in the U.K., this graphic novel follows the conversations that unfold among teenage classmates after a student leaves school following a sexual assault. Rumors circulate (“All I’m saying is she must be a bit of a slut,” says one girl, who is quickly put in her place), yet as the diverse group of teenage girls makes its way around town, one reveals that her boyfriend sometimes pressures her into “doing stuff.” A group of boys joins the unfolding conversation, which evolves into a discussion about cultural pressures and leads to meaningful revelations. Though the dialogue can be forced, this comic, cleanly illustrated by Wilkins, could easily serve as an icebreaker for readers to share their thoughts and concerns about consent. Ages 13–up. (Nov.)