Take It as a Compliment
Gold medal winner in the “Independent Spirit' category of the Independent Publishers Outstanding Book of the Year Awards 2016
"I was fifteen."
"I never saw him again."
"They chanted after me, “Oscar the Grouch, Oscar the Grouch."
Bringing together the voices of males and females of all ages, the stories in this collective graphic memoir reflect real life experiences of sexual abuse, violence and harassment.
Each experience is brought to life by Maria Stoian’s exceptional artwork. Her unique and varied styles powerfully reflect the tone and mood of the different stories and in just a few pages express the complex emotions felt by victims of sexual abuse.
Covering acts such as sexual violence, public sexual harassment, domestic abuse and child abuse, this is a reminder for survivors that they are not alone and a call for all of us to take action. The stories clearly show that assault of any type is not an honour bestowed on anyone. It is not a compliment.
Awards
- 2016, Winner - Independent Publisher Book Awards
- 2016, Winner - Scottish Independent Comic Book Alliance
- 2016, Winner - British Book Design and Production Awards
Maria Stoian is a graphic designer and illustrator based in Scotland. She is interested in the way illustration and games can be a non-aggressive way of encouraging people to recognise when they might be biased. Take It As A Compliment was Maria’s Master’s project at Edinburgh College of Art.
