Awkward Encounter

Using a stroller to balance as she walks with her prosthetic leg, the unnamed protagonist of the graphic novel Building Stories interacts uncomfortably with a man she had not seen for years. Artist Chris Ware zooms in on their expressive faces in some frames and pulls back in others to reveal their body language. Telling insightful, often sad stories about characters in the Chicago area, Ware also includes moments of joy in his innovative novel that won high praise in reviews.