Weekend Read #002 - SKETCHY by Makihirochi
Sports are for everyone in this week’s pick from our read-outside-the-box book club
Hi again,
It’s so easy to get in a feedback loop of only reading material that fits the Film & TV market’s strict ~slam dunk~ criteria. Here, I want to highlight titles that are flying under the radar - even if they’re not the perfect fit for your slate at the moment, they’re fun, easy treats that will expose you to something new.
Here’s this week’s selection:
SKETCHY is a five-volume manga series written and illustrated by Makihirochi, also known for her critically acclaimed slice-of-life series IS KICHIJOJI THE ONLY PLACE TO LIVE? SKETCHY was first published in English by Kodansha Comics in April 2024, and was featured on a number of best-of lists from that year.
The story begins with Ako, a listless late twenty/early thirty-something who is inspired by the first group of female skaters she’s ever seen to try the sport. As she progresses, she makes real friends for the first time and recovers her ambition and dreams for the future. From there, the story branches off and follows many characters in her circle, including Maririn, who wants to be the first female skate filmmaker in Japan, Takehana, a recently disgraced editor looking to fill her empty schedule with a new project, and Shiho, an aspiring stylist.
The best part of SKETCHY is how it pays homage to all the different kinds of artists involved in skate culture, and how it shows readers that anyone with even a passing interest in skating has skills and talents that will be a welcome addition to the community. It’s a new, refreshing kind of sports story - one that celebrates amateurs and inspires everyone to get up and go outside.
If “sports” and “subculture” are a target on your slate, you simply must read SKETCHY - it’s a masterclass in what stories about those topics should do.
For Fans Of:
WHIP IT
SKATE KITCHEN
BETTY
GHOST WORLD
Spike Jonze, in a tangential way
I look forward to hearing your thoughts!! (Seriously please read this one I need someone to talk to about it.)
Best,
TIP