In the graphic novel Sous les bouclettes, released on April 11, 2018 by Delcourt editions, Mélaka tells the story of her mother Gudule's fight against illness, a disease that will eventually take the talented writer on May 21, 2015.
Family stories
In the moving Sous les bouclettes, Mélaka presents chronologically the heavy struggle of her family against cancer that attacked her mother. The book begins almost at the moment Gudule's cancer broke out and follows the journey of Melaka and her loved ones through these difficult times. The story is interspersed with short autobiographical anecdotes written by Gudule and illustrated by Melaka, which were to constitute his last book. The voices of mother and daughter mingle to offer the reader snippets of life that respond with humor and tenderness.
A modest exposure
Because of its serious, serious and tragic subject, Sous les bouclettes is a foray into the last moments of Gudule's life. His daughter Mélaka narrates the physical and mental degenerations induced by cancer and the suffering of Gudule and his loved ones. She gives herself entirely in this book, without any taboo. Yet it is with great modesty that she lays bare the intimacy of her family, going so far as to protect the identity of Gudule's last great love. The tenderness and complicity that emerge from the book prevent him from giving the impression of being too intrusive.
Unwavering humour
Both a tribute and an outlet, Sous les bouclettes is a great breath of emotions. One does not need to know Gudule or Melaka to appreciate this book and be caught up in the feelings it exhales. The pages are full of humor and love and plunge us into the life of this family so endearing. Anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to the horrors of illness will recognize painful moments in this novel, but will still find a smile and laughter on many occasions.
Under the Curls is a particularly touching book that proves that if the disease can eat away at the body, it will never prevail over the feelings.
