Chester Brown

Presents the cartoonist's experiences with prostitution and describes how he became a vocal proponent of the controversial profession.

Paying for It

Allison Blakeley

"I Never Liked You" was one of the first graphic novels I ever read, so I have a soft spot for Brown's work. I did not find the writing to be like "record-keeping," but rather notable experiences, with some experiences lasting several panels and other just one or two. I did enjoy reading through the numerous appendices and notes in the back. There is only so much you can fit in a panel without it become overcrowded or losing it's essence, and I liked being able to read more insight from him (and one of his friends) Yes, this is a graphic novel about sex work, so if that's not something you're comfortable reading about, then no, this book is probably not for you.

Ryan Nylander

I read this in one sitting. It's very compelling and funny. Brown's peculiar personality and perspective shine through loud and clear.

This is a charged topic, and Brown tries to handle it with grace. He acknowledges early-on that, regretfully, the thoughts and perspectives of the sex workers featured in the book are largely absent (or omitted); it is primarily fixated on his perspective as a john. Even knowing what to expect, this absence was disappointing for me as a reader.

There is a lengthy afterword in which Brown delves into his personal ideology. I recommend enjoying the novel separately; over-explaining things cheapens the narrative. As Brown would have it, sex work should be legal (I totally agree) and normalized to the extent that sex between people who are romantically involved often comes with a price tag (this I find pretty unconvincing). Nevertheless, Paying for It is a very original memoir, and worth a read.

Jolin Masson

Really liked the opening to this world, as well as the reflection on love surrounding it. I highly recommend it!

Paying for It

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