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Pistouvi #1-4
Pistouvi
Jeanne, una ragazzina dagli occhi vispi che ama cogliere fiori, e Pistouvi, una piccola volpe impertinente e sempre pronta a tirare di cerbottana, vivono inseparabili in una casa costruita su un albero maestoso. Intorno a loro una vallata rigogliosa, popolata da pennuti beffardi e canterini, dal barbuto Uomo Trattore e dal vento, che assume le fattezze di una donna leggiadra e generosa. Mentre il Trattore dissoda la terra senza sosta, e il vento sparge i semi raccolti nella sua bisaccia, Jeanne e Pistouvi, spaventati dagli strani poteri degli uccelli, cercano di proteggersi, di sopravvivere e diventare grandi giorno dopo giorno, sperimentando le ambiguità e le meraviglie della natura. A venirne fuori è una fiaba sospesa, toccante e visionaria sul passaggio all’età adulta, l’ineluttabilità dello scorrere del tempo e il rapporto tra incanto e disillusione.
191 pages, Paperback
First published October 7, 2011
2 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Merwan
51 books26 followersMerwan Chabane est diplômé de l'École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs. Après un passage par l'École des Gobelins, il fait ses premières armes dans le milieu du jeu vidéo, mais également en réalisant des story-boards pour différentes séries d'animations.
En 2002, il se fait remarquer avec son film de fin d'études, « Biotope », court-métrage d'animation multi primé qu'il écrit et réalise. Soutenue par le CNC et Arte, cette expérience se poursuit avec la réalisation d'un autre court-métrage d'animation, « Clichés de soirée » sélectionné pour le prix du cartoon d'or 2009.
En 2007, il est contacté pour collaborer au long métrage des « Lascars » en tant que story-boarder.
Il publie en 2009 la bande dessinée « Fausse garde » aux éditions Vents d'Ouest, la version retravaillée et exhaustive de sa première BD « Pankat ».
Puis il publie également chez 12BIS le premier Volume de la saga d'aventure « L'Or et le Sang » qu'il dessine sur une mise en scène de Fabien Bedouel, coécrite par Maurin Defrance et Fabien Nury. Il entame ensuite la création d'albums, seul ou en collaboration, comme avec Bastien Vivès, par exemple.
En 2002, il se fait remarquer avec son film de fin d'études, « Biotope », court-métrage d'animation multi primé qu'il écrit et réalise. Soutenue par le CNC et Arte, cette expérience se poursuit avec la réalisation d'un autre court-métrage d'animation, « Clichés de soirée » sélectionné pour le prix du cartoon d'or 2009.
En 2007, il est contacté pour collaborer au long métrage des « Lascars » en tant que story-boarder.
Il publie en 2009 la bande dessinée « Fausse garde » aux éditions Vents d'Ouest, la version retravaillée et exhaustive de sa première BD « Pankat ».
Puis il publie également chez 12BIS le premier Volume de la saga d'aventure « L'Or et le Sang » qu'il dessine sur une mise en scène de Fabien Bedouel, coécrite par Maurin Defrance et Fabien Nury. Il entame ensuite la création d'albums, seul ou en collaboration, comme avec Bastien Vivès, par exemple.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
September 25, 2020
This book was strange and I liked it. Pistouvi is a little fox living with Jeanne, a little girl, in a treehouse in a field. There is a giant tractor with a bearded torso and the Wind is a woman flying around spreading seeds. This is a collection of vignettes. They didn't always make sense, but the gorgeous art kept me engaged. It's got a vibe to it as if Skottie Young worked for Studio Ghilbi.
Received a review copy from Magnetic Press and Edelweiss. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Received a review copy from Magnetic Press and Edelweiss. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
October 25, 2020
While this strange graphic novel had its charms, I'm clueless as to the intended audience. The story of a young girl and a cute, mischievous fox living together seems sure to appeal to children, yet the tale is dark and dreary, and well, frankly - a little confusing. I did like the artwork, but the plot left me scratching my head.
October 29, 2020
This story was a dream within a dream within a dream, in a fantasy land where the wind is a benevolent woman, a half giant half tractor roams shaping the land, and a young girl and a fox live together facing the elements and the strangeness of birds. I call this a dream because the plot isn't crisp, I was never entirely sure what was going on, and it seems like there is a logic to going on in the world, until you look too close. I'm fine with the ambiguity.
**Thanks to the author, artist, publisher, and NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
**Thanks to the author, artist, publisher, and NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2020
A little girl, Jeanne, lives in a treehouse in a huge tree. Her best friend is a fox-man with human arms and hands, called Pistouvi. Another friend is the Wind, who takes the form of a beautiful, fairy-like woman. There is a huge bearded giant driving around on a gigantic tractor. There are a lot of birds (I believe the original title translates as "The land of the giant birds").
Pistouvi is a collection of episodes, not directly linked to eachother, but quite strange and trippy in nature. If you don't like your narratives obtuse, slightly sinister and dreamlike, this is not the book for you. I have a soft spot for that kind of stuff, if done well enough, and I do believe this is done quite well, telling a story about childhood, about growing up and losing your childlike innocence.
The real star of this book is the art. Beautiful black and white drawings, with expressive characters, and the slightest hint of manga.
(Received an ARC through Edelweiss)
Pistouvi is a collection of episodes, not directly linked to eachother, but quite strange and trippy in nature. If you don't like your narratives obtuse, slightly sinister and dreamlike, this is not the book for you. I have a soft spot for that kind of stuff, if done well enough, and I do believe this is done quite well, telling a story about childhood, about growing up and losing your childlike innocence.
The real star of this book is the art. Beautiful black and white drawings, with expressive characters, and the slightest hint of manga.
(Received an ARC through Edelweiss)
September 10, 2020
The cover was what drew me to this graphic novel, and to be honest, the art is the only thing worth mentioning at all, and the only reason I gave it a 2-star rating.
The plot is practically non-existent, just a bunch of random vignettes put together without any sense or meaning. The story itself is about a girl and her fox friend fighting a bunch of birds. I didn’t understand the point of any of it.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The plot is practically non-existent, just a bunch of random vignettes put together without any sense or meaning. The story itself is about a girl and her fox friend fighting a bunch of birds. I didn’t understand the point of any of it.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2017
Le storie con protagonisti animali mi piacciono sempre tantissimo, sono quelle in cui provo più empatia ed affezionarmi ai protagonisti mi riesce semplicissimo.
Tutto questo è accaduto anche con Pistouvi, graphic novel di provenienza francese che narra la storia di due amici per la pelle, una volpe e di una bambina, Jeanne, in un mondo che ricorda un po' la campagna francese. Altri abitanti delle colline sono un gigante uomo-trattore, lo spirito del vento, e tanti, tantissimi uccelli capaci di fare del male al piccolo Pistouvi semplicemente parlandogli.
Graficamente il fumetto è splendido. Il bianco e nero viene sfruttato perfettamente e si adatta al tratto pulito dei disegni. Sebbene ci fosse il rischio di far apparire tutto troppo statico, ciò non accade mai; il movimento dei capelli e dei vestiti di Jeanne, il pelo folto di Pistouvi, la crespa barba del gigante e la bellezza eterea del vento vengono resi in totale dinamismo. Il risultato sono delle tavole affascinanti accompagnate dalla personalità spumeggiante di Jeanne (che è un po' l'adulta della situazione) e della permalosità tipicamente adolescenziale di Pistouvi.
Ciò che mi dispiace è che non penso di aver colto a pieno il senso della graphic novel.
Sicuramente la storia è di stampo metaforico e la battaglia perpetua fra i due protagonisti e i -considerati- malvagi uccelli nasconde la consapevolezza che la "colpevolezza di genere" è basata tutta sui punti di vista di chi osserva e mai su idee inverosimilmente oggettive.
Ci troviamo di fronte a una storia di maturazione, di crescita e di cambiamenti, ma non nego che in alcuni casi mi è stato difficile capire dove si volesse andare a parare.
Peccato, perchè se avessi fatto totalmente mio il significato di Pistouvi comprendendo tutte le metafore, lo avrei apprezzato ancora di più.
Tutto questo è accaduto anche con Pistouvi, graphic novel di provenienza francese che narra la storia di due amici per la pelle, una volpe e di una bambina, Jeanne, in un mondo che ricorda un po' la campagna francese. Altri abitanti delle colline sono un gigante uomo-trattore, lo spirito del vento, e tanti, tantissimi uccelli capaci di fare del male al piccolo Pistouvi semplicemente parlandogli.
Graficamente il fumetto è splendido. Il bianco e nero viene sfruttato perfettamente e si adatta al tratto pulito dei disegni. Sebbene ci fosse il rischio di far apparire tutto troppo statico, ciò non accade mai; il movimento dei capelli e dei vestiti di Jeanne, il pelo folto di Pistouvi, la crespa barba del gigante e la bellezza eterea del vento vengono resi in totale dinamismo. Il risultato sono delle tavole affascinanti accompagnate dalla personalità spumeggiante di Jeanne (che è un po' l'adulta della situazione) e della permalosità tipicamente adolescenziale di Pistouvi.
Ciò che mi dispiace è che non penso di aver colto a pieno il senso della graphic novel.
Sicuramente la storia è di stampo metaforico e la battaglia perpetua fra i due protagonisti e i -considerati- malvagi uccelli nasconde la consapevolezza che la "colpevolezza di genere" è basata tutta sui punti di vista di chi osserva e mai su idee inverosimilmente oggettive.
Ci troviamo di fronte a una storia di maturazione, di crescita e di cambiamenti, ma non nego che in alcuni casi mi è stato difficile capire dove si volesse andare a parare.
Peccato, perchè se avessi fatto totalmente mio il significato di Pistouvi comprendendo tutte le metafore, lo avrei apprezzato ancora di più.
November 22, 2017
Con una copertina così bella ed una volpe per protagonista, "Pistouvi" mi ha incuriosita da subito.
Non ho potuto resistere alla lettura, nonostante la avessi da un giorno soltanto.
Carica di aspettative ho intrapreso la lettura e durante le prime pagine sono nate alcune perplessità.
Ero abbastanza tranquilla, credevo che si sarebbero risolte col tempo e invece i dubbi non hanno fatto che aumentare.
Una bambina ed una volpe sono i protagonisti, disegnati con un tratto meraviglioso e stampati in bianco e nero.
Ci viene fatta vedere una realtà nella quale Pistouvi non può sentire la voce degli uccelli - non ci viene detto perché, non ci viene spiegato nulla - e più avanti nella storia scopriamo le conseguenze di un contatto tra loro e la piccola volpe.
Ancora confusi per le vicende di Pistouvi, si lancia nella mischia anche il vento, la bambina che pianta un albero in casa, un trattore scorbutico ed un'ocarina.
Voi penserete che sto dicendo cose a caso, ma dovete capire che è così che ci viene presentato tutto: a caso.
Purtroppo io non sono riuscita a capire il messaggio che voleva lanciare la graphic novel, ma non essendo riuscita neanche a capire bene la trama ed il senso della storia è comprensibile.
In conclusione trovo che i disegni di questa GN siano stupendi, ma non la consiglierei come storia da leggere per recepire un messaggio importante.
Non ho potuto resistere alla lettura, nonostante la avessi da un giorno soltanto.
Carica di aspettative ho intrapreso la lettura e durante le prime pagine sono nate alcune perplessità.
Ero abbastanza tranquilla, credevo che si sarebbero risolte col tempo e invece i dubbi non hanno fatto che aumentare.
Una bambina ed una volpe sono i protagonisti, disegnati con un tratto meraviglioso e stampati in bianco e nero.
Ci viene fatta vedere una realtà nella quale Pistouvi non può sentire la voce degli uccelli - non ci viene detto perché, non ci viene spiegato nulla - e più avanti nella storia scopriamo le conseguenze di un contatto tra loro e la piccola volpe.
Ancora confusi per le vicende di Pistouvi, si lancia nella mischia anche il vento, la bambina che pianta un albero in casa, un trattore scorbutico ed un'ocarina.
Voi penserete che sto dicendo cose a caso, ma dovete capire che è così che ci viene presentato tutto: a caso.
Purtroppo io non sono riuscita a capire il messaggio che voleva lanciare la graphic novel, ma non essendo riuscita neanche a capire bene la trama ed il senso della storia è comprensibile.
In conclusione trovo che i disegni di questa GN siano stupendi, ma non la consiglierei come storia da leggere per recepire un messaggio importante.
September 3, 2020
What did I just read?
The drawings were okay, I think they lacked details and the girl was really creepy sometimes, looking like a complete psychopath. The fox was cute enough though and there is a litte plus for this grumpy, tractor-driving Hagrid. But the plot was very confusing, I’m not sure you can even call this a plot. It’s about growing up and the “inevitable transition from childhood freedom to adult responsibility” but I think the implementation is really bad.
help
Thanks to Diamond Book Distributors and NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The drawings were okay, I think they lacked details and the girl was really creepy sometimes, looking like a complete psychopath. The fox was cute enough though and there is a litte plus for this grumpy, tractor-driving Hagrid. But the plot was very confusing, I’m not sure you can even call this a plot. It’s about growing up and the “inevitable transition from childhood freedom to adult responsibility” but I think the implementation is really bad.
help
Thanks to Diamond Book Distributors and NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2022
Що… я… тільки… що… прочитав.? І це цілком гарне речення, яким можна описати враження від прочитаного коміксу. Але ж ні, потрібно трішки розібратися, що ж такого незвичного й дивного, але водночас важливого і прекрасного, є в цій історії. Отже, «Пістуві» від Мервана та Бертрана Ґатіньоля, оригінальна назва якої «Пістуві. Країна велитенських птахів».
Ця історія є, таке враження, сном уві сні, події якої відбуваються у фантастичному краї, де бородатий напівгігант-напівтрактор Гаґрід блукає, подорожуючи нескінченними просторами світу цього, косить без зупинки дерева й кущі, формуючи нову природу землі. А Вітер, розкішна жінка з хвилястим волоссям, — то тут, то там, — садить насіння, яке вона дістає із сідельної сумки, зриваючи тим самим плани косаря. У такому світі перебувають юна дівчина Жанна та лис Пістуві, живуть разом у хатинці на вершині гігантського дерева посеред великих рівнин, стикаючись зі стихією та дивакуватістю цього світу.
Найбільший страх лиса — це птахи. Дивно, але якщо ти хоча б якимось чином комунікуєш зблизька із птахами, то починаєш опір’юватися. І це навіть більш лякає, аніж гігантські круки, що можуть роздавити тебе своєю лапою. Адже, якщо чорне пір’я заполонить твоє тіло, то ти перетворишся на птаха. Втратиш себе, свою зовнішність, свою пам’ять, своє справжнє я. Але в цих маленьких друзів є допомога в особі Вітру, яка подарувала Жанні музичний інструмент, граючи на якому, можна відлякати птахів. А ще Вітер може врятувати тебе, якщо опір’єння не зайшло занадто далеко. Також Гаґрід разом із жінкою-вітром намагається піклуватися про Жанну й Пістуві в цьому достатньо жорстокому світі. Навіть попри те, що ці двоє бешкетників постійно піджартовують над бородатим велетнем.
«Пістуві» — це збірка епізодів, не пов’язаних безпосередньо один з одним, але є досить веселими і тривожними за своєю суттю. Деякі сцени чи події можуть здатися настільки дивними, що в розрізі незвичності й заплутаності сюжету, формує абсурдність цього світу загалом. Тому першочергове враження може бути неправильним щодо цієї історії.
Я можу глибоко помилятися, але мова тут йде про дорослішання та неминучий перехід від свободи дитинства до відповідальності дорослих. Та коли до дитини приходять розуміння цього факту, то суцільна біль і відторгення заповнює дитяче серце. Мрії, фантазії, простота рішень — залишаються десь далеко позаду. Ця історія — зворушлива ода тому етапу нашого життя, коли не було більше турбот, як розважитися, і не б��льше проблем, ніж загублена іграшка. Пістуві розповідає нам про стільки речей, що майже неможливо згадати їх усіх, але насамперед він зупиняється на тому, щоби показати нам, як багато втрачається, коли людина стає дорослою. І наскільки ця втрата непоправна.
Малюнок Ґатіньола я б назвав такою собі «європейською манґою», де ще вагомим аспектом є те, що більшість кадрів містять мало тексту. Тому читається все дуже швидко, якщо в порівняння взяти кількість сторінок у коміксі. Проте, уся його чарівність полягає в тому, щоби зафіксувати всю символіку разом з емоційною складовою на папері. І думаю художнику Ґатіньолу це чудово вдалося.
У підсумках хочу сказати так, якщо вам не подобаються історії, які можуть здатися не серйозними через часом тупі вчинки головних героїв, трохи зловісні, дивакуваті та подібні до снів, цей комікс не для вас. Але особисто я раджу звернути увагу на «Пістуві» Мервана та Ґатіньоля. І поринути в чарівний і простий світ уявою дитини.
Ця історія є, таке враження, сном уві сні, події якої відбуваються у фантастичному краї, де бородатий напівгігант-напівтрактор Гаґрід блукає, подорожуючи нескінченними просторами світу цього, косить без зупинки дерева й кущі, формуючи нову природу землі. А Вітер, розкішна жінка з хвилястим волоссям, — то тут, то там, — садить насіння, яке вона дістає із сідельної сумки, зриваючи тим самим плани косаря. У такому світі перебувають юна дівчина Жанна та лис Пістуві, живуть разом у хатинці на вершині гігантського дерева посеред великих рівнин, стикаючись зі стихією та дивакуватістю цього світу.
Найбільший страх лиса — це птахи. Дивно, але якщо ти хоча б якимось чином комунікуєш зблизька із птахами, то починаєш опір’юватися. І це навіть більш лякає, аніж гігантські круки, що можуть роздавити тебе своєю лапою. Адже, якщо чорне пір’я заполонить твоє тіло, то ти перетворишся на птаха. Втратиш себе, свою зовнішність, свою пам’ять, своє справжнє я. Але в цих маленьких друзів є допомога в особі Вітру, яка подарувала Жанні музичний інструмент, граючи на якому, можна відлякати птахів. А ще Вітер може врятувати тебе, якщо опір’єння не зайшло занадто далеко. Також Гаґрід разом із жінкою-вітром намагається піклуватися про Жанну й Пістуві в цьому достатньо жорстокому світі. Навіть попри те, що ці двоє бешкетників постійно піджартовують над бородатим велетнем.
«Пістуві» — це збірка епізодів, не пов’язаних безпосередньо один з одним, але є досить веселими і тривожними за своєю суттю. Деякі сцени чи події можуть здатися настільки дивними, що в розрізі незвичності й заплутаності сюжету, формує абсурдність цього світу загалом. Тому першочергове враження може бути неправильним щодо цієї історії.
Я можу глибоко помилятися, але мова тут йде про дорослішання та неминучий перехід від свободи дитинства до відповідальності дорослих. Та коли до дитини приходять розуміння цього факту, то суцільна біль і відторгення заповнює дитяче серце. Мрії, фантазії, простота рішень — залишаються десь далеко позаду. Ця історія — зворушлива ода тому етапу нашого життя, коли не було більше турбот, як розважитися, і не б��льше проблем, ніж загублена іграшка. Пістуві розповідає нам про стільки речей, що майже неможливо згадати їх усіх, але насамперед він зупиняється на тому, щоби показати нам, як багато втрачається, коли людина стає дорослою. І наскільки ця втрата непоправна.
Малюнок Ґатіньола я б назвав такою собі «європейською манґою», де ще вагомим аспектом є те, що більшість кадрів містять мало тексту. Тому читається все дуже швидко, якщо в порівняння взяти кількість сторінок у коміксі. Проте, уся його чарівність полягає в тому, щоби зафіксувати всю символіку разом з емоційною складовою на папері. І думаю художнику Ґатіньолу це чудово вдалося.
У підсумках хочу сказати так, якщо вам не подобаються історії, які можуть здатися не серйозними через часом тупі вчинки головних героїв, трохи зловісні, дивакуваті та подібні до снів, цей комікс не для вас. Але особисто я раджу звернути увагу на «Пістуві» Мервана та Ґатіньоля. І поринути в чарівний і простий світ уявою дитини.
October 22, 2020
I don't think I fully comprehended this story (maybe because it's translated?), it seems like more of a collection of vignettes, about a child and her wild imagination, as I assume. And as she starts to grow up, she starts losing her rich imagination and all the "friends" she made within her imaginary world. The art style was amazing and the atmosphere was wonderful, but the story wasn't very clear, I still enjoyed most of it.
I thank Netgalley for the digital ARC.
I thank Netgalley for the digital ARC.
February 22, 2024
Disclaimer: My review for this book is based on an ARC provided by the publish via NetGalley; all the following opinions I express are wholly my own.
This book wasn't for me, but I do think it'll suit some type of audience out there in the reading world.
I wouldn't describe the art in this graphic novel as beautiful per say- it was striking, all done up in bold black and white illustrations. But that couldn't fully save Pistouvi from being confusingly nonsensical in its entirety- it has the makings and vague aura of a Studio Ghibli movie, but is unfortunately too wispy and ephemeral to have made any sort of impact on me as a reader. There was so much I didn't quite understand, and frankly didn't even know if I was supposed to understand- I even read through the whole thing a second time just to see if clarity would descend upon me with a repeat viewing.
It did not.
The concept is interesting, the art is cool, but the book lacks even the slightest semblance of story and detail to actually make it a digestible read; with each chapter/vignette, the vaguely dream-like quality of the story becomes more confusing, weird, and detached from what it's supposedly putting forth. It feels immaterial at best, and frustratingly hollow and disconsonant at worst.
Was it an allegory for the changing nature of friendship as we grow older? Is it that once Pistouvi hears the birds unaffected by Jeanne's opinion, he starts changing, and thus outgrows her? Is Jeanne a sociopathic liar? Is Pistouvi's huger a metaphor for his desire to know more outside the realm of what he and Jeanne regularly know? It all ends so abruptly I don't think even a thin veneer of answers exist within the story- then again, maybe there wasn't meant to be?
Not every book needs to be fleshed out in every piece of minutiae it contains, but this book was weirdly discordant to me, and left me feeling bewildered at what exactly it was trying to say with what little plot it had.
This book wasn't for me, but I do think it'll suit some type of audience out there in the reading world.
I wouldn't describe the art in this graphic novel as beautiful per say- it was striking, all done up in bold black and white illustrations. But that couldn't fully save Pistouvi from being confusingly nonsensical in its entirety- it has the makings and vague aura of a Studio Ghibli movie, but is unfortunately too wispy and ephemeral to have made any sort of impact on me as a reader. There was so much I didn't quite understand, and frankly didn't even know if I was supposed to understand- I even read through the whole thing a second time just to see if clarity would descend upon me with a repeat viewing.
It did not.
The concept is interesting, the art is cool, but the book lacks even the slightest semblance of story and detail to actually make it a digestible read; with each chapter/vignette, the vaguely dream-like quality of the story becomes more confusing, weird, and detached from what it's supposedly putting forth. It feels immaterial at best, and frustratingly hollow and disconsonant at worst.
Was it an allegory for the changing nature of friendship as we grow older? Is it that once Pistouvi hears the birds unaffected by Jeanne's opinion, he starts changing, and thus outgrows her? Is Jeanne a sociopathic liar? Is Pistouvi's huger a metaphor for his desire to know more outside the realm of what he and Jeanne regularly know? It all ends so abruptly I don't think even a thin veneer of answers exist within the story- then again, maybe there wasn't meant to be?
Not every book needs to be fleshed out in every piece of minutiae it contains, but this book was weirdly discordant to me, and left me feeling bewildered at what exactly it was trying to say with what little plot it had.
September 7, 2021
CLEANEST LINEART EVER! The artwork alone is gorgeous and appealing. The mastery of gray tones, whites, and blacks is wonderful.
For the story, I didn’t understand anything that was going on. This book is full throttle in showing and not telling, but I was confused for the most part ;__; I don’t know the setting but birds apparently carry a curse to turn you into a bird if you listen to them, a little girl and a fox are friends, but it seems time is running out for their friendship, and the Wind is personified like a parent to the MCs.
The ending is unsettling, and we don’t get any loose ends explained. There’s a message here, but I’m trying to figure out what it was. Maybe don’t antagonize others because they’re different than you? But Pistuvi seemed to have some type of trauma toward birds and was he partially deaf? Why are there no other people around but the Wind and her husband? Where are Pistouvi’s parents? Why did the Wind give the Jeanne an ocarina?
I think this is a standalone, but I’ve got more questions.
1.5
For the story, I didn’t understand anything that was going on. This book is full throttle in showing and not telling, but I was confused for the most part ;__; I don’t know the setting but birds apparently carry a curse to turn you into a bird if you listen to them, a little girl and a fox are friends, but it seems time is running out for their friendship, and the Wind is personified like a parent to the MCs.
The ending is unsettling, and we don’t get any loose ends explained. There’s a message here, but I’m trying to figure out what it was. Maybe don’t antagonize others because they’re different than you? But Pistuvi seemed to have some type of trauma toward birds and was he partially deaf? Why are there no other people around but the Wind and her husband? Where are Pistouvi’s parents? Why did the Wind give the Jeanne an ocarina?
I think this is a standalone, but I’ve got more questions.
1.5
August 29, 2020
How I read this: Free ebook copy received through Edelweiss
The art in this graphic novel was BEAUTIFUL, but it lacked a plot and This is an atmospheric story, so basically there was no storyline to follow, rather it was made up of small vignettes that sort of make up the total feel of the world of the book. This would work great if I liked the characters or enjoyed the atmosphere, but somehow it didn't jibe for me (that is a very personal opinion which may be different for someone else!) It's also set in this semi-imaginary world where some things are realistic and some completely impossible in our world. Normally I love these settings, but this one I found a little bit eerie. I kind of feel like maybe there will be a sequel for this one, cause I found the ending a little bit of a cliffhanger as well - I hope there is because honestly,
If you want to read something with exceptional art and love atmospheric stories about half-fantastic cozy worlds, then this is it.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
The art in this graphic novel was BEAUTIFUL, but it lacked a plot and This is an atmospheric story, so basically there was no storyline to follow, rather it was made up of small vignettes that sort of make up the total feel of the world of the book. This would work great if I liked the characters or enjoyed the atmosphere, but somehow it didn't jibe for me (that is a very personal opinion which may be different for someone else!) It's also set in this semi-imaginary world where some things are realistic and some completely impossible in our world. Normally I love these settings, but this one I found a little bit eerie. I kind of feel like maybe there will be a sequel for this one, cause I found the ending a little bit of a cliffhanger as well - I hope there is because honestly,
If you want to read something with exceptional art and love atmospheric stories about half-fantastic cozy worlds, then this is it.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
September 12, 2020
thanks to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
this one will be a hard one to review since it doesn't have a plot to begin with. it follows a girl and a fox and how they're fighting some birds. the book is supposed to be like a "coming of age story about the transition from childhood to adulthood" but we didn't get any of that. i don't think the story portrayed whatever it was the authors wanted to put out because i didn't understand the point of the novel.
the only thing i liked about it was the art style, which is the reason why i'm giving this a merciful 2 stars.
this one will be a hard one to review since it doesn't have a plot to begin with. it follows a girl and a fox and how they're fighting some birds. the book is supposed to be like a "coming of age story about the transition from childhood to adulthood" but we didn't get any of that. i don't think the story portrayed whatever it was the authors wanted to put out because i didn't understand the point of the novel.
the only thing i liked about it was the art style, which is the reason why i'm giving this a merciful 2 stars.
September 16, 2020
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
Um, do I need to have taken drugs to understand this book? Because I honestly don't have a clue what I read. I am so so confused right now. The blurb sounded awesome, and while I did get some tiny itty bitty bits of that... mostly I was just utterly confused and I just had no idea what was going on. I just went along with it in the hopes that it would get more clear, would make more sense, would maybe get better. The art is at times pretty terrifying (and with that I mean the faces, they remind me a bit too much of horror stuff I read), but at other times also quite pretty. Another confusing thing. I am sure there is someone who will love this, but not me. Definitely not me.
See this thread for some of the faces: https://twitter.com/Mehsi_Hime/status...
Um, do I need to have taken drugs to understand this book? Because I honestly don't have a clue what I read. I am so so confused right now. The blurb sounded awesome, and while I did get some tiny itty bitty bits of that... mostly I was just utterly confused and I just had no idea what was going on. I just went along with it in the hopes that it would get more clear, would make more sense, would maybe get better. The art is at times pretty terrifying (and with that I mean the faces, they remind me a bit too much of horror stuff I read), but at other times also quite pretty. Another confusing thing. I am sure there is someone who will love this, but not me. Definitely not me.
See this thread for some of the faces: https://twitter.com/Mehsi_Hime/status...
November 4, 2017
Non so bene se ho capito il senso. In ogni caso il segno è pulitissimo e mi è piaciuto molto, in quanto alla trama... sono perplessa.
September 27, 2024
This sure was a peculiar read. I wasn't sure what to expect going into this one, but I was sold almost immediately by the lovely art and the dreamlike vibes of this world. It reminded me of Adventure Time, but somehow softer and more intimate.
The story also has those dreamlike qualities, like things don't really have a clear and obvious explanation but it still makes sense in a more subtle way, somehow?
I understand this may not be to everyone's liking, but I'm personally always fascinated by these kind of stories where what isn't told is just as important as what is.
Ultimately, I think this is a story about growing out of childhood, something that the protagonists desperately try to avoid but becomes inevitable as time marches on.
The story also has those dreamlike qualities, like things don't really have a clear and obvious explanation but it still makes sense in a more subtle way, somehow?
I understand this may not be to everyone's liking, but I'm personally always fascinated by these kind of stories where what isn't told is just as important as what is.
Ultimately, I think this is a story about growing out of childhood, something that the protagonists desperately try to avoid but becomes inevitable as time marches on.
October 23, 2015
Graphiquement cette BD est somptueuse — c’est ce qui a motivé mon achat. Le design des personnages et des paysages est très réussi. Le renard Pistouvi est trop mignon avec ses grands yeux espiègles, ses expressions, ses mimiques mais aussi celles de la petite fille ont un charme fou. La nature n’est pas en reste, le mouvements du vent dans la végétation et dans les cheveux de Jeanne sont à tomber. Le noir est blanc est parfaitement exploité, les élégants aplats de noir apportent le contraste nécessaire. Le dessin et le découpage sont à la croisée des chemins entre du franco-belge et du manga, on sent que de multiples sources d’inspiration ont nourri le dessinateur.
L’histoire est très poétique et je serais bien en peine de vous la résumer. C’est une bande dessinée cataloguée « jeunesse » et je dois dire que je serais encore plus embêté de devoir répondre aux questions qu'un enfant ne manquerait pas de poser au cours de la lecture:
- Pourquoi est-ce que le renard a des plumes qui poussent quand un oiseau lui parle ?
- Pourquoi est-ce que la petite fille vit seule avec le renard dans une cabane sur un arbre sans échelle pour y monter ?
- Pourquoi est-ce que les oiseaux ont l’air bête ?. Là c’est facile je répondrais par une autre question As-tu déjà rencontré des poules ?
C’est une histoire touchante, ni drôle ni triste disons mélancolique. C’est une BD à lire si vous avez de l’imagination à revendre, des enfants ou que vous voulez simplement vous en mettre plein les yeux. http://www.aubonroman.com/2012/04/pis...
L’histoire est très poétique et je serais bien en peine de vous la résumer. C’est une bande dessinée cataloguée « jeunesse » et je dois dire que je serais encore plus embêté de devoir répondre aux questions qu'un enfant ne manquerait pas de poser au cours de la lecture:
- Pourquoi est-ce que le renard a des plumes qui poussent quand un oiseau lui parle ?
- Pourquoi est-ce que la petite fille vit seule avec le renard dans une cabane sur un arbre sans échelle pour y monter ?
- Pourquoi est-ce que les oiseaux ont l’air bête ?. Là c’est facile je répondrais par une autre question As-tu déjà rencontré des poules ?
C’est une histoire touchante, ni drôle ni triste disons mélancolique. C’est une BD à lire si vous avez de l’imagination à revendre, des enfants ou que vous voulez simplement vous en mettre plein les yeux. http://www.aubonroman.com/2012/04/pis...
September 18, 2020
I received an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Diamond Book Distributors for providing it.
It was a cute book, with an even cuter cover, and that's exactly what pulled me in. Pistouvi is a whimsical tale about Jeanne and her best friend, the eponymous Pistouvi, an anthromorphic fox, living together inside a treehouse, in a world where if you listen to birds, you’ll turn into one. The entire story has an uncanny omen about it. The narrative was slightly obtuse, sinister, and dream-like, and the chapters were not being directly linked to each other. In fact, it was just made of small vignettes with no specific plotline to follow and that don't generally resolve. But I'm a sucker for beautiful world-building and thought-provoking unpredictable storytelling, and this definitely had those. It was allegorical, with dreams within a story that already felt like a dream.
The best thing about Pistouvi is the artwork! It's simply gorgeous, with beautiful black and white drawings, expressive characters, and a hint of manga. I especially absolutely loved the wind spirit, a mother figure in this world. The whole thing gave me Studio Ghibli vibes. The characters had clear and evocative body language and their facial expressions gave such raw, intense emotions. I guess I just wish there was more to the story, but overall, I loved it. I'm not sure I'd recommend it to everyone though since most people might not like it because of how opaque the story feels, but if someone is open to a graphic novel with basically no plot and an eerie atmosphere, but that has an exceptional art and magical realism, this would be the perfect cozy read!
It was a cute book, with an even cuter cover, and that's exactly what pulled me in. Pistouvi is a whimsical tale about Jeanne and her best friend, the eponymous Pistouvi, an anthromorphic fox, living together inside a treehouse, in a world where if you listen to birds, you’ll turn into one. The entire story has an uncanny omen about it. The narrative was slightly obtuse, sinister, and dream-like, and the chapters were not being directly linked to each other. In fact, it was just made of small vignettes with no specific plotline to follow and that don't generally resolve. But I'm a sucker for beautiful world-building and thought-provoking unpredictable storytelling, and this definitely had those. It was allegorical, with dreams within a story that already felt like a dream.
The best thing about Pistouvi is the artwork! It's simply gorgeous, with beautiful black and white drawings, expressive characters, and a hint of manga. I especially absolutely loved the wind spirit, a mother figure in this world. The whole thing gave me Studio Ghibli vibes. The characters had clear and evocative body language and their facial expressions gave such raw, intense emotions. I guess I just wish there was more to the story, but overall, I loved it. I'm not sure I'd recommend it to everyone though since most people might not like it because of how opaque the story feels, but if someone is open to a graphic novel with basically no plot and an eerie atmosphere, but that has an exceptional art and magical realism, this would be the perfect cozy read!
February 19, 2021
What's the story about? I don't know what to tell you really. The story was intriguing but it's so vague that you're left confused most of the time. Despite that, I really loved the artstyle except for the open mouth drawings, they looked very off and wrong.
Overall, it wasn't so bad and it was a quick read. If it had more context or explanation to the plot then it would have been more interesting.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with the digital copy for an honest review.
Overall, it wasn't so bad and it was a quick read. If it had more context or explanation to the plot then it would have been more interesting.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with the digital copy for an honest review.
November 5, 2017
Graphic novel dai disegni stupendi, narra una storia di amicizia tra una bambina e una volpe Pistouvi. Le tre stelline le ho date perché mi ha lasciata perplessa: in certi momenti non capisco il messaggio che l'autore vuole dare.
September 16, 2020
I didn't understand the purpose of this book although I enjoyed the illustrations and the atmospheric setting of it.
Maybe the meaning got lost in the translation.
Maybe the meaning got lost in the translation.
September 12, 2020
*3.75 (with a heart <3)
It was so cute and adorable!
Since it's comic book let's start off with the art style. It was really detailed and refined, but at the same time pretty simple which made it really fit the story.
Next thing - the plot. It had some holes in it and things I didn't really like, but I know that the target group - kids won't really see it and even as simple as it is, the subliminal message will get to them even better.
The thing I loved about it the most was how the author put so much meaning to a really short and simple adventures of a fox named Pistouvi and its best friend. Every chapter told a separate story, which is common among children books and it was long enough to add some moral to them, but short enough t0 keep the reader's attention (especially little ones ;))
There was one thing that I don't really get - the ending, like I don't know, maybe I'm too old to understand it? I think it may be some kind of metaphor that kids can get better or I'm just trying to build a background while the author just got out of inspiration and left it as it was. If anyone wants to try and explain it to me I'd be glad!
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review #Pistouvi #NetGalley
It was so cute and adorable!
Since it's comic book let's start off with the art style. It was really detailed and refined, but at the same time pretty simple which made it really fit the story.
Next thing - the plot. It had some holes in it and things I didn't really like, but I know that the target group - kids won't really see it and even as simple as it is, the subliminal message will get to them even better.
The thing I loved about it the most was how the author put so much meaning to a really short and simple adventures of a fox named Pistouvi and its best friend. Every chapter told a separate story, which is common among children books and it was long enough to add some moral to them, but short enough t0 keep the reader's attention (especially little ones ;))
There was one thing that I don't really get - the ending, like I don't know, maybe I'm too old to understand it? I think it may be some kind of metaphor that kids can get better or I'm just trying to build a background while the author just got out of inspiration and left it as it was. If anyone wants to try and explain it to me I'd be glad!
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review #Pistouvi #NetGalley
January 2, 2022
I really don't know what I read here. The blurb said something, but I didn't find that something in the book. Maybe there was some symbolism that I missed. The book is supposed to be a fable about the transition into adulthood, but I really don't know what was the symbol for that. The talking fox, perhaps?
There's a girl who lives on a treehouse and talks to a fox. She lives in a sort of fantasy world when there's nothing out there. Just fields plowed by a tractor-man who's in love with the wind. And there are birds around, but the fox isn't supposed to talk to them because, if it does, it'll turn into a bird itself.
There were many chapters, but the partition didn't really make any sense.
Bad art.
Extremely disappointed in this graphic novel.
There's a girl who lives on a treehouse and talks to a fox. She lives in a sort of fantasy world when there's nothing out there. Just fields plowed by a tractor-man who's in love with the wind. And there are birds around, but the fox isn't supposed to talk to them because, if it does, it'll turn into a bird itself.
There were many chapters, but the partition didn't really make any sense.
Bad art.
Extremely disappointed in this graphic novel.
July 13, 2021
Pistouvi shows the dark side of European comics. They can be complex and compelling, telling fascinating, unlikely stories (see: The Adoption) or they can be baffling nonsense. Pistouvi is baffling nonsense.
A fox and a young girl live in a tree. A giant rides a tractor through the forest nearby. A wind-spirit drifts through the story. The fox is afraid of birds.
That's it. That's the plot. I think? Maybe there's more to it. Somehow, 200 pages pass where nothing seems to happen and no one event seems to be connected to the others. The art is intriguing, but the story is not. Hard pass.
A fox and a young girl live in a tree. A giant rides a tractor through the forest nearby. A wind-spirit drifts through the story. The fox is afraid of birds.
That's it. That's the plot. I think? Maybe there's more to it. Somehow, 200 pages pass where nothing seems to happen and no one event seems to be connected to the others. The art is intriguing, but the story is not. Hard pass.
March 11, 2021
Sometimes I start a graphic novel without know that it's French, but I'm not convinced I've ever finished a graphic novel without know that it's French... The narrative didn't super click with me but I like the creepy dream aspects of the world & it's logic. Gatignol's art is spectacular, as usual, and really carries the book for me (though, what is with the teeth fascination? both this book & all the Ogre God books have some seriously defined teeth). For fans of Gatignol's art stylings and the more nonsensical original Grimm's tales.
October 26, 2020
Pistouvi is the story of Two Friends, Jeanne, a little girl and Pistouvi, a fox man. There are a bunch of strange characters in the book making it unique in its own way. The book comprises of unrelated episodes talking about their adventures. The storyline isn't very prominent yet the book leaves an impact on you. The monochromatic illustrations are the real appeal of the book making it very attractive. An interesting pick for people looking for an offbeat graphic novel.
April 5, 2022
Okay I didn't realize this was french, which explains why I didn't completely get the story. I love the art style and the strange narrative that plays out. The characters are charming and magical. It reminded me of a Studio Ghibli film crossed with Adventure Time. From what I understand, this is a story about growing up but the narrative isn't very clear. It's a good quick read.
September 24, 2020
Let’s start off by talking about the artwork in this graphic novel!! It’s stunning.
BUT, that was about all I can find worth talking about in this story. I felt like there was no plot and most of the time I didn’t understand what was happening.
The 2 stars is purely for the artwork.
BUT, that was about all I can find worth talking about in this story. I felt like there was no plot and most of the time I didn’t understand what was happening.
The 2 stars is purely for the artwork.
July 15, 2022
The art in this is beautiful but I have absolutely no idea what it was about or what happened or why.
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