Binge Mode: Scott Pilgrim

The 2004-2010 series written by Bryan Lee O’Malley is one of my all time favorites. The series six volume series was originally released in black and white was re-released in the mid 2010s in color. During our collective imprisonment I decided to re-read the color version of the series and I forgot how important this book was to me. 

The story follows the titular Scott Pilgrim, a 23 year old aimless, bum,  bass player. As most of us in our early 20s(no I’m not projecting) his life is entirely directionless that is until he meets the mysterious, sub-space traveling, American, delivery girl Ramona Flowers. Their relationship takes him on a journey of personal growth, loss, love, fighting seven evil exes, skate competitions, vegan police, and all the other usual stuff that comes with your post college years. 

Why should I read it? I’m glad you asked random person. I think that this book appeals to everyone in their own ways. You may not pick up on all of the references but what really shines through is the collective cast of characters. You fall in with them, you see yourself in them, you want all of them to succeed. 

The art is also great, O’Malley does such a great job of combining the comedy with the art.  What’s even better is that the art improves as the books go on.

I also recommend his books Seconds and Alone at Sea. If you’d like to hear a discussion about Seconds you should definitely check out our episode about it. I mean you have listened to all of our episodes already right? RIGHT?

If you want a fun book that will make you laugh, cry, think longingly about your relationships…  you should check it out! 

I’ve bought this series twice if that tells you anything. I recommend the color version, it’s available digitally.

Art: 4/5

Writing: 5/5

Vibe: Happiness mixed with a hefty dose of nostalgia. 

God I miss the outdoors.