Reading about a woman going through an abusive relationship is not an easy thing to do. Seeing a woman go through one is even harder. In this graphic novel, we do both. The combination of reading and watching Rosalind B. Penfold go through the confusion, extremes and addiction of an abusive relationship is a multi-sensory, highly memorable experience. If you have ever been in an unhealthy relationship, or watched someone you know in one, the after-effect of this book can be hard to shake off.
In leaving such a strong impression, Dragonslippers helps us to comprehend these types of relationships. Through the simplicity of the drawings and conversational dialogue, we can identify and break down the complex dynamics involved in abuse. Rosalind, like many women in these scenarios, considers herself to be a strong, independent woman. In the book, you watch her go from running her own business and being swept away by love, to becoming confused and helpless. Her lover cheats, lies, belittles her and wears her down to the point where she completely loses her sense of self.
Dragonslippers tells an old story in a new way, clearly conveying how this can happen to anyone, the cycles involved and why the dynamics can result in unhealthy relationships that are more difficult to “just leave” than many people presume. (Catherine Farquharson)
by Rosalind B. Penfold $20.00, 257 pgs, Penguin Group, 90 Eglinton Ave. East, Suite 700 Toronto, ON, M4P 2Y3, penguin.ca