The Prince & the Dressmaker

by Jen Wang

[nannah]

I was walking through B&N with a friend and by chance saw this on the end of an aisle. Now, I didn't know much about this graphic novel except from what can be learned skimming over a couple articles online (skimming very, very fast). But immediately I grabbed this and bought it immediately

And I'm not disappointed at all. I can't stop thinking about it.

Book content warnings
forcibly coming out - spoiler within a spoiler: as non binary

In Paris, "at the dawn of the modern age", Prince Sebastian has a secret: he's actually Lady Crystallia by night, the city's rising fashion icon. And his secret? also has a secret: the genius behind his look and beautiful gowns is his talented seamstress and best friend, Frances.

But Frances dreams to be a great and famous seamstress, and being Prince Sebastian's secret is being just that: a secret. Meanwhile, Prince Sebastian's parents are trying to find him a wife and instill in him the importance of becoming the future king. How long can Prince Sebastian and Frances keep Lady Crystallia together?

I LOVED this graphic novel. The characters are so vibrant, and their struggles are so touching and easily felt.

It's also one of the most beautiful graphic novels I've ever seen. Scrolling through a few comments here, I've noticed a few saying the style is too cartoony, but as opposed to what? Realistic, gritty comic-book style or Japanese anime-style? I think this style is LOVELY and fits the story and tone perfectly. Plus every single panel is so lovingly drawn. There isn't a single panel that's scratched out or sketched for lack of time or something. It's beautiful.

Now, as to whether this book is actually LGBT, I think it's plain when Sebastian says,

"Some days I look at myself in the mirror and think, 'That's me, Prince Sebastian! I wear boy clothes and look like my father.' Other days it doesn't feel right at all. Those days I feel like I'm actually ... a princess."

I'm non binary myself (gender fluid - though not ranging to the "two binaries" but women through agender genders), but this? I relate to this feeling exactly. And quick searching tells me a lot of other non binary readers have too.

Though the ending is left rather open-ended and the exact words "non binary/gender fluid/etc." are never actually used, Sebastian's words describing himself are enough for me.

This book is such a beautiful novel describing the experience of someone who's non binary and experiencing it for the first time. Coming to terms with it, and finding support. :')

Plus, near the ending there's a scene that had me smiling so much it hurt. You'll know it when you read it.