Griso the One and Only written and illustrated by Roger Mello, translated by Daniel Hahn. Published by Elsewhere Editions.*
It’s common to wonder, at least once in life, if one is the “only” one to think, feel, believe, act, or look the way one does. Griso the One and Only embodies that journey in the form of a unicorn, the very last of its kind, in search “of another just like him.”
Roger Mello brilliantly places Griso across time, space, and cultures through a selection of artistic styles in search of another “one and only.” Each spread highlights another disappointment. But Griso's courage turns the page. He ventures on. And the narrative urges the reader on, offering hope for Griso and for ourselves.
Creating pause and reflection, Mello’s command of imagery and Hahn’s attentive translation captivate readers with lines such as the following:
Having already traveled very far, Griso “watched as the sun turned shy, went bright red, before hiding itself away completely.”
And after accepting a blue blanket from the night, “he went to sleep, in the lap of the night, and then the night itself drifted off, too.”
Amidst calm moments, danger also lurks. Griso comes upon a knight and believes they are quite similar. But no. Although the knight recognizes how special this last unicorn is, he does not wish to help him. Rather, the knight only sees how he could benefit from killing Griso. A chilly warning to beware of the intentions of others.
Soon after escaping into the fog, Griso does find another creature seemingly as lonely in its oneness as he. Yet, it is not a unicorn, but the last of the winged horses.
The unicorn and the winged horse advance together, depicted in a vibrant orange, yellow, and green palette in the style of 10th century Egyptian decoration. Upon the final illustration, the reader sees Griso and the winged horse drawn as if on a prehistoric cave wall. As such, the reader is left to contemplate the future that belongs to these two unique creatures, all while being reminded of the agelessness of the question and of the search for oneself and for “another just like.”
Imagine It!
In his dream, or what Griso thought was a dream, he saw “sea-unicorns.” Did you know that they exist, but are called Narwhals?
Imagine another creature that shares characteristics with Griso. Draw an image of them side by side. You could also find photos and illustrations of lots of different animals. Cut and paste different parts of them to create a unique creature all your own.
Imagine their qualities: Magical? Colorful? Brave? Curious?...
Imagine a story where your creature goes in search of another just like them and finds Griso at the end. You could write it down, act it out, draw it, or tell it.
Imagine what an exciting adventure it could be!
*Appreciation is extended to the publisher for providing a review copy. All hard copies of books for review are donated to Bright Blessings.
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