Search on DeBaser Reviews books

 If you think everything has been said about cancer, Engelberg will make you think again.

 I think of my book as a text that talks about life, illness, and death, and I believe the humor path is what makes it easier and human.

Miriam Engelberg's graphic memoir, 'Cancer Made Me a Shallower Person,' offers a raw and honest look at her breast cancer journey. Blending humor and tragedy, it captures the emotional highs and lows with simplicity and courage. Through childlike drawings and candid storytelling, Engelberg invites readers into her struggles, doubts, and moments of hope. This work humanizes the cancer experience, showing how humor can be a vital coping tool. Discover Miriam Engelberg's heartfelt and humorous comic diary—read this unforgettable journey through cancer now!

 I have seen many skies, but none like this one. Clear and serene, very far from what happens on the earth it covers.

 The skin, indeed. A body that ends up under the tanks while shouting 'Viva l'Italia.' The puddle, the flatbread of skin and bones that comes out of it is the flag of Italy.

This review explores Curzio Malaparte's powerful novel 'La Pelle,' which offers a stark portrayal of Naples during World War II. It highlights Malaparte's raw observations of human misery amid war, his complex identity, and his poignant reflections on patriotism and survival. The reviewer emphasizes the disturbing scenes and the deep humanity portrayed, praising the book's bravery and emotional impact. Discover the haunting truths of wartime Naples—read Curzio Malaparte's La Pelle today.

 "Frascella’s book falls into a genre... but when creativity (or personality) is lacking, one falls into the repetition of the genre."

 "It seems unproductive to emphasize the plastic tenderness that the geeky sixteen-year-old should elicit through his gray vicissitudes."

This review critically examines Christian Frascella's debut novel, highlighting its reliance on genre clichés and lack of original personality. The reviewer points out narrative inconsistencies and shallow character portrayals, while acknowledging its popularity and positive media attention. Interviews with the author reveal an underdeveloped perspective. Despite enthusiasm from some critics and readers, the novel's literary quality is questioned. The reviewer remains skeptical but open to further understanding. Explore this candid critique of Christian Frascella’s debut novel and decide if its genre approach speaks to you!

 Édika’s reckless stories are truly a burst of genius and nonsense that is unique in their kind.

 The only mistress is the gag. And I assure you, you’ll cry from laughter!

Édika's comic book is a daring and hysterical blend of absurdity, vulgarity, and anarchic humor that pushes all boundaries. Centered around a dysfunctional family, its stories are rapid-fire gags born from everyday absurdities, combining influences from Monty Python to Almodóvar. With raw pen sketches and a no-rules approach, Édika delivers relentless laughter and satirical brilliance. This landmark comic is a must-read for fans of irreverent, political incorrect humor. Dive into Édika's wildly hilarious and anarchic comic stories — a must-read for lovers of bold, absurd humor!

 The writing is fast, irreverent, raw, expressed with neologisms, vulgar and coarse language.

 Recommended for those with strong stomachs... Happy reading.

Enrico Brizzi's "Bastogne" portrays the violent and chaotic life of four boys involved in crime and drugs in 1980s Nice. Written with raw, irreverent language and a fast pace, the novel explores themes of friendship amidst nihilism. Rich in cultural references, it recalls works like "A Clockwork Orange." The story culminates in a brutal, ill-fated robbery and ends on a melancholic note. Recommended for readers with strong stomachs. Dive into the raw and gritty world of Bastogne—explore Enrico Brizzi's intense novel today!

 I cannot stay among the living anymore.

 A slap in the face to the Germany of the 'economic miracle', whose government evaded its historical responsibilities.

Peter Weiss’ 'L'istruttoria' is a poetic oratorio based on the 1963-64 Frankfurt Auschwitz trial. The text uses powerful testimonies to reveal the unrelenting cruelty of Nazi war crimes. Written in short, fragmented sentences rooted in Dante’s Inferno structure, it captures the psychological and physical annihilation of deportees. Weiss confronts Germany's post-war denial with a laconic yet emotionally intense work that demands remembrance and awareness. Discover this haunting poetic account of Auschwitz and confront the chilling realities of war crimes—read Peter Weiss' 'L'istruttoria' now.

 Suddenly reading or owning that book became extremely risky. All the original panels and all unsold copies were burned.

 "Your father has lived according to his ideas, has respected his convictions. Grow up as good revolutionaries... Revolution is the most important thing."

This review praises the graphic biography of Che Guevara by Alberto and Enrique Breccia with script by Hector Oesterheld. It highlights the book's legendary status, the dangers faced under Argentina's dictatorship, and the powerful black-and-white art style. Though verbose at times, the work offers a comprehensive and moving portrayal of Che's life and revolutionary ideals. The review calls the book a must-read and an unforgettable tribute to a 20th-century icon. Discover the gripping story and art of Che Guevara by the Breccia brothers—read this unforgettable graphic biography now!

 If only one could really take the boat and go into the jungle and become the king of the furry monsters that adore you.

 Instead, you have to control your roars, make compromises before dinner gets cold, that’s how you grow up, right?

This review praises Maurice Sendak's 'Where The Wild Things Are' as a timeless coming-of-age story. It highlights the fantasy of escaping to a world of loving monsters as a metaphor for childhood emotions and growing up. The book's 1963 origin and pending movie adaptation add to its enduring relevance. The review reflects on the bittersweet balance of imagination and maturity. Read or watch Where The Wild Things Are and relive the magic of childhood imagination and growth.

 For me, this is not another book on De André, but the first and only one I have read.

 One of his best qualities is precisely that of knowing how to bring out the best from others and from situations, even the most difficult ones.

The review praises Riccardo Bertoncelli's book as a unique and comprehensive exploration of Fabrizio De André’s life and music. It highlights the depth of De André’s artistry beyond lyrics, emphasizing his voice, collaborators, and evolving styles. The inclusion of detailed interviews adds humanizing insight into De André’s character and creative process. Overall, it conveys appreciation for the complex legacy of the renowned Italian singer-songwriter. Discover the human and artistic journey of Fabrizio De André through Bertoncelli’s captivating book—read more and deepen your appreciation today!

 Shadows, specters, and more shadows will be all you are permitted to see, nothing defined but only doubts and dismay, fear and uncertainty will be your travel companions for this is nothing but a plunge into madness.

 Arkham Asylum's is perhaps the darkest Batman, the truest, never predictable or banal, a true first-class madman where it is not reason governing him but instincts.

The review praises Grant Morrison's Batman: Arkham Asylum as a bold and dark reinterpretation of Batman. Dave McKean's ethereal illustrations enrich the atmosphere, plunging readers into a complex exploration of madness. The story layers plot with psychological depth, challenging traditional superhero narratives. Batman is portrayed as a troubled, instinct-driven figure navigating a world of delusion and disorder. Explore the dark depths of Batman’s mind in Grant Morrison’s Arkham Asylum—read or listen to this iconic psychological journey today!

 The Euthyphro is one of the most enjoyable, lively, immediate, and pleasant of Plato's dialogues.

 Socrates, similarly, makes thoughts move... of others.

The review praises Plato's Euthyphro as an enjoyable and lively dialogue that deeply explores the concept of holiness. Socrates challenges Euthyphro's religious claims with irony, revealing contradictions without reaching a final answer. The review also connects the dialogue to later Christian thought, particularly Augustine’s views on grace and holiness. Overall, it highlights the dialogue's wit, philosophical depth, and literary artistry. Dive into Plato's Euthyphro and discover a timeless debate on holiness and divinity through Socratic wit and wisdom.

 GTO is nothing but a work of criticism against the suffocating and competitive Japanese society.

 Onizuka teaches kids not to have a superficial view; if society calls you mad, society is the one in the wrong.

GTO by Tohru Fujisawa is a unique manga that challenges traditional shonen stereotypes through its unconventional protagonist, teacher Eikichi Onizuka. With humor and sharp social criticism, it exposes the oppressive nature of the Japanese education system and society. The story combines laughter with reflection, making it a recommended read beyond typical manga audiences. Its successful anime adaptation further solidified its impact internationally. Explore GTO now for a hilarious yet eye-opening take on Japanese school life and society.

 "Gateway breaks the mold with its modern and brilliant writing, and its unusual structure."

 "The protagonist is the anti-hero Robinette Broadhead, extremely human: within him coexist guilt, fears, resentments, and complexes."

Frederik Pohl’s Gateway is praised as a modern reinvention of classic sci-fi, merging deep psychological character study with an intriguing alien mystery. The novel features an innovative narrative with 'sidebars' providing rich context and atmosphere. The protagonist, Robinette Broadhead, is an imperfect anti-hero navigating a dangerous post-Earth future at the mysterious Gateway asteroid. The book's structure and style are highlighted as pioneering, contributing to its prestigious awards and lasting impact. Dive into Frederik Pohl’s Gateway and discover a thrilling blend of space mystery and human drama—start reading or listening today!

 "Mathematics as an absolutely imaginative, fanciful, and creative activity."

 "I was moved by reading about Riemann and his shyness, thrilled by the ideals of Hilbert swept away by Gödel, and sorry for Turing’s unjust fate."

Marcus du Sautoy’s 'The Music of the Primes' offers a passionate and elegant exploration of the Riemann Hypothesis and its history. The book intertwines complex math with the human stories of great mathematicians, making challenging concepts accessible. It portrays mathematics as a creative and imaginative pursuit filled with drama, humor, and tragedy. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to bring both scientific and emotional depth to the topic. Overall, it is recommended for anyone interested in math or the human side of science. Dive into the fascinating world of prime numbers and discover the human drama behind math’s greatest mystery with Marcus du Sautoy’s captivating book!

 People die for love. For music or an unrepeatable sound or a dreamed life.

 Beautiful drawings, magical black and white. Then, there’s laughing too.

Chicken with Plums by Marjane Satrapi is a beautifully illustrated graphic novel that explores themes of love, music, and loss. The emotive black and white drawings enhance the story’s poetic depth. It reflects on how life and memories intertwine through the power of music and art. Dive into the poetic world of Chicken with Plums and experience a story where music, love, and art move the soul.

 Pompeo was born as an open diary, fragile, helpless, defenseless, and disarming during the darkest period of Andrea Pazienza.

 It pisses you off doubly how these pages of bitter memory are still tremendously current today, 20 years after his death.

Pompeo by Andrea Pazienza is a profoundly raw and emotional graphic diary depicting the author’s battle with addiction and existential despair. The black and white artwork and fragmented narrative mirror the chaos of the artist’s life during his darkest period. This cult classic resonates deeply even decades later, capturing timeless anxieties and nihilism. It stands as a heartbreaking, urgent legacy from a gifted and troubled comic icon. Explore Andrea Pazienza’s Pompeo for a raw, haunting dive into artistic despair and timeless human struggles.

 "Better not to think that by now the spider was as tall as him, and the body three times bigger, and the long black legs as thick as his legs."

 "Yes, he had a brain. And therefore he had to use it. After all, wasn’t this his world now? He could determine its values and meanings."

Richard Matheson’s novel introduces Scott Carey, who shrinks relentlessly after exposure to a radioactive insecticide. The story explores his terrifying struggle with physical diminishment and growing fears, especially of a menacing spider. The writing is sharp and immersive, delving deeply into psychological and existential themes. The novel’s success inspired a classic film adaptation and remains a compelling tale of human survival and resilience. Dive into this gripping psychological thriller and experience the haunting journey of survival and fear with The Shrinking Man.

 "La Valle del Terrore finally arrives... and suddenly Tex becomes a whole different story."

 "An album to be enjoyed with the eyes... the artistic testament of an author who has given us masterpieces of refinement and genius."

The reviewer conveys a long-standing dislike for Tex Willer, seen as a traditional and predictable hero. However, Magnus' 1996 album 'La Valle del Terrore' is praised for its obsessive artistic detail and transformation of Tex into a cult classic. Despite admiring the craftsmanship, the reviewer’s personal sentiment against Tex remains unchanged. The work is seen as a masterpiece of Italian comic art. Explore Magnus’ intricate masterpiece and see Tex Willer like never before!

 "Gomorrah is the modern-day 'I know', an instinctive, visceral 'I know' that is both accurate and documented concerning the evils afflicting Naples and all of Campania."

 "Saviano has completed his hellish journey, has emerged dirty, smelly, sweaty, and shocked from it, but able to shout: 'damn bastards, I’m still alive!'"

Roberto Saviano’s Gomorrah provides a fierce and truthful account of the Camorra’s powerful grip on Naples and Campania. Unlike speculative works, Saviano writes from firsthand experience and evidence, exposing the ruthless crime network controlling legal and illegal enterprises. With an angry yet curious voice, the book explores the social decay and hunger for power driving the mafia's dominance. It is a deeply personal and journalistic journey into a dark reality many wish to ignore. This review praises Saviano’s courage and unfiltered truth-telling. Read Gomorrah to uncover the brutal truth behind Naples' criminal empire and witness the power of fearless journalism.

 Mort Cinder is in every way a graphic-literary work full of references to Poe, Kafka, and the expressionist cinema of Fritz Lang or Orson Wells.

 A comic that constantly transitions from action to psychological introspection and is masterfully supported by Breccia’s pictorial and refined hand.

Mort Cinder is a visionary graphic novel series from the 1960s by Héctor G. Oesterheld and Alberto Breccia. The story blends noir, horror, and psychological depth through meticulous, expressive artwork. It features complex characters and themes influenced by Poe, Kafka, and classic cinema. Despite a occasionally verbose script, the work's artistic mastery and atmospheric storytelling make it an unforgettable reading experience. Recommended for fans of serious and artistic comics. Dive into Mort Cinder, a masterpiece of noir and horror graphic storytelling—experience the atmospheric art and psychological depth today!