But I Really Wanted to Be an Anthropologist

by Margaux Motin, Edward Gauvin (Translator)

Overview

But I Really Wanted to Be an Anthropologist is an introduction to the world of Margaux, a charming 30-something living in Paris, navigating the world as an illustrator. This diary documents her day-to-day existence with her boyfriend and young daughter, drinking and smoking, and the difficulties of a persistent and precocious child. Anyone who’s ever worn inappropriate shoes to the supermarket or danced around the house in their underwear will be charmed by Motin’s irreverent humor.

Praise for But I Really Wanted to Be an Anthropologist:

"A great choice for a beach read—or a guilty pleasure." —Publishers Weekly

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781906838461
Publisher:	ABRAMS
Publication date:	05/15/2012
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 9.50(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

Margaux Motin’s illustration credits include covers for the French editions of Bridget Jones’ Diary, Elle, and Cosmopolitan.

Editorial Reviews

French blogger and illustrator Motin makes her English-language debut in this funny and fresh translation of her first graphic novel. Originally published in France in 2009, the book collects largely stand-alone cartoons in the style of Motin’s blog. Fashion-obsessed, self-employed artist Motin is the mother of a toddler (“the tyrant”), has a tense relationship with her mother, and is married to a man who provides equal opportunities to be the butt of the joke—and to turn the joke back around on Motin. The humor translates brilliantly because her self-mockery is in exactly the right tone to make readers rejoice in her small victories. Several of the anecdotes are also reminiscent of comedies where adults who have responsibilities sometimes still act like they did when they were in college, with funny and revealing results. Motin’s cartoonish illustrations and her use of color for effect rather than realism create a whimsical tone and bolster her already comedic antics. A great choice for a beach read—or a guilty pleasure. (June)

Publishers Weekly