Every so often I find myself reading a book that I think I like but am not sure. Land of Mirrors by María Medem, Aleshia Jensen (translator) and Daniela Ortiz (translator) is one of those books. It is a graphic novel, but does not flow necessarily as a “pure” one. There is something “different” about it. It might be because it is translated or it might be because of the almost abstract minimal illustrations. However, whatever the reason this is the most organized piece of chaos I have read in awhile.
Everyone has their own take on things. It has a feeling relative to current events, is timeless, and is unique. It probably would be for a more mature audience but if you know of a reader who is younger it might work. Yet, I recommend for at least 14 and up but probably adult is best as some of the concepts are sophisticated and complex.
But at the same time, things are really simple. A girl is alone. The loneliness is both a blessing and curse for her. Then there are the wild dogs and a solo flower she finds. Things seem disconnected, but it is all connected. Then the traveler shows up and everything changes. We see history and learn about prejudices and fears. We see community and the dangers of that. We will find ourselves in familiar settings that will be new to us. Again, organized chaos.
Things are always changing and staying the same. It is minimalist with colors and details but filled. Sometimes you want more. Sometimes you need more. Sometimes you want less. Sometimes you need less. Contradictions and consistency are the same and different things. It is an art book that might not be for everyone but there is something for everyone. It is an experience book that no one experiences the same way. Even the same reader with multiple reads.