Even though I have trouble reading online, I am finding even my longer reads there. Such as Amla Mater by Devi Menon. It is less than 200 pages, and therefore more of a novella graphic novel, but what I mean by longer is not a picture book. Actually picture books can be relatively easy to read online (unless they have a smaller print, a lot of print or illustrations that need the book to be turned to read), but when I do my young adult or adult reads, I usually prefer a physical time in hand. But Menon’s story can be enjoyed either on screen (which I did, though it is available) or in hand. 
And that enjoyable story is a sweet, short memoir that gives a look at a woman remembering the past, living in the present and knowing the future is there waiting. Following along with her pregnancy, the narrator tells us how all of her pieces can come together, showing how she is who she is meant to be, knowing she has the support of her past, present and future to help her. Simple, but not simplistic, illustrations accompany the text. The overall tone is somber, hopeful and a mix of bitter and sweet, like the gooseberry of her childhood.
While reading it, I was not sure if this is a fiction memoir or based on the author’s experiences, (it is fiction) but it is relatable even if you have not experienced the exact events of the creator. She experiences the everyday like anyone else. We have fears of being a good parent, the memories of our Best Friend Forever from childhood, and we have issues with trying to capture all that once again and sometimes, falling short of that perfection we remember. However, there are also some beautiful moments in the middle of all that which makes it all worth the time, effort, and even a few set backs.
Illustrations fall into a category of not a “sketch” but not necessarily a “full flushed out image” but they are complete. This seemingly contradiction gives the feel of things a more artistic and slightly dreamy look. It almost feels as if one is reading the journal of the author. They are a good companion to the text and allow neither one to take over, but also do not fall behind.