ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH WITHIN THE IB SYSTEM: A REVIEW OF THE GRAPHIC NOVEL “FUN HOME”

by Lia Tesfaye

The Scintillating Syllabus

Even though we as students do not really take into consideration the value and importance of the syllabus the IB has extrapolated, the system inconspicuously plants seeds that could lead to deeper learning in more than one way. A nice example of this case is a currently assigned graphic novel called “Fun Home” that guides us, the readers, through the upbringing and life of Alison Bechdel with an emphasis on the complex relationship with her father.

The Complex Plot

The plot of this convoluted text guides us through the complexity of human life while giving the readers a chance to analyze the events and determine their psychological impact. The dominant themes of the book touch on topics like sexual orientation, gender roles, suicide, emotional abuse, dysfunctional families, and the role of literature and art when it comes to self-expression and relatability. Bechdel is able to make her entangled story relatable thanks to her brilliant illustrations, her clever narrative, her dark humor and ultimately her insights into family bonds and human nature.

Repression

Repression is a psychological reality we in society are accustomed to, so much so that art is considered as its escape and a necessary outlet for expression. The main characters in Alison Bechdel’s story – herself and her father, Bruce Bechdel – feel forced to hide a part of themselves from the rest of the world, whether this is an insignificant detail or a colossal and life altering omission. As you might imagine, in this story it is the colossal omission. “Fun Home” exposes the repressed feelings and events in the Bechdel family saga in a safe and reflective way: through art.

Aftermath

The aftermath and consequences of keeping one’s truth locked away do not just take a toll on that person, but that person’s loved ones as well. “Fun Home” explores this dynamic from the first page to the last. It does not play out in chronological order but rather proceeds to show the effect of events before we are even aware of the events. This brilliant tactic opens the work up and per- mits any reader to dissect the minds of our elaborate characters.

Recommendation

If you are a reader who magically finds free time to deep dive into a new book seeking the thrill of entering a new world, this book is not for you. The adventure, the rush you are seeking won’t be found in the pages of this graphic novel. However, if you find yourself in a perplexing mindset and are trying to understand the conflicted thoughts that keep you up at night, give this novel a glance. It might help. Just remember the old adage to never judge a book by its cover. As a devoted IB student and reader, I recommend this graphic novel as an interesting insight into not only the human mind but also on literary style.