Shortcomings is a graphic novel by Adrian Tomine that explores race and relationships in the San Francisco area. Ben is an Asian-American movie-house slacker whose girlfriend, Miko, is much more of an activist. Ben has to deal with the disintegration of this relationship while handling his own shortcomings. His best friend is a lesbian named Alice who provides sharp banter. Told in three chapters, Ben’s story is terrifically illustrated. The artwork keeps the pages turning.
Hardcover, 104 pages. Drawn & Quarterly, 2007. $13.57 at Amazon.
+ Shortcomings at Amazon