Elisa Macellari

Papaya salad

The debut graphic novel from Thai-Italian illustrator Elisa Macellari, Papaya Salad tells the story of her great-uncle Sompong who found himself in Europe on military scholarship on the eve of World War II. A gentle and resolute man in love with books and languages, in search of his place in the world, Sompong chronicles his life during the war and falling for his wife, finding humor and joy even as the world changes irrevocably around him This Winner of the 2019 Autori di Immagini Silver Medal in the Comics category tells the human story of the War, from a perspective not typically seen. An historical and emotional journey through my family and my roots that are grown between Europe and Asia. A personal narrative that needs to be shared and hopefully arouses empathy in the reader. -- Elisa Macellari

Papaya Salad

Cynthia

What a stunningly beautiful book! Told through the eyes of the author's Great Uncle Sompong, we learn about his experiences in Europe during World War II and how he can find the silver lining in every grim situation on his path in life to fulfill his dreams. I especially loved how Macellari ties in the significance of papaya salad to her memories and family history. It's a reminder to cherish the bonds we have with family and how there's always something new to learn from generations before us.

On top of a charming story, the book design is impeccable. The warm, tropical color palette applied throughout the novel made this story glow even more with emotions. The use of ingredients as chapter breaks was my favorite visual detail and helped tie everything together. For anyone interested in a different perspective on WWII and food culture, this is a delightful read.

Papaya salad

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