Graphic Novel Review: BALLAD FOR SOPHIE by Melo and Cavia

BALLAD FOR SOPHIE by Filipe Melo and Juan Cavia (Top Shelf Productions, 2021) Paperback, 320 pages. ISBN # 978-1-60309-498-6 

Synopsis on the Goodreads website . . . . .

A young journalist prompts a reclusive piano superstar to open up, resulting in this stunning graphic sonata exploring a lifetime of rivalry, regret, and redemption.

1933. In the small French village of Cressy-la-Valoise, a local piano contest brings together two brilliant young players: Julien Dubois, the privileged heir of a wealthy family, and François Samson, the janitor's son. One wins, one loses, and both are changed forever.

1997. In a huge mansion stained with cigarette smoke and memories, a bitter old man is shaken by the unexpected visit of an interviewer. Somewhere between reality and fantasy, Julien composes, like in a musical score, a complex and moving story about the cost of success, rivalry, redemption, and flying pianos.

When all is said and done, did anyone ever truly win? And is there any music left to play?

My FIVE-STAR Review on the Goodreads website . . . . .

This is one of the books you share with your friends who are quick to dismiss comics and graphic novels. It's a convincing argument for the value and impact of the format.

BALLAD FOR SOPHIE is a beautifully told tale within the world of piano virtuosos across several decades that explores ambition, envy, long-held secrets, isolation, love and caring. 

While the story tugs at the heartstrings, the art contains reinforcing images, symbols and emotionally revealing facial expressions and body language. A book to admire, treasure, and share.