HOW TO LOVE

An illustrated guide to love, feelings, and relationships that originally launched as a WEBTOON comic.

Written from a much-needed queer perspective that invites in readers of all genders and orientations, the book features chapters that each present a different question about relationships: for example, “How do I know how fast or slow to take things?” and “Can I be friends with my ex?” The focus isn’t on providing perfectly correct answers but on prompting readers to think about what the answer is for them. The importance of respecting one’s own values while also engaging in honest, introspective self-questioning is a pervasive theme. The book celebrates individual differences, acknowledges different types of loneliness, challenges assumptions around gender and sexuality, and encourages unique expressions of love. Open and clear communication in friendships as well as romantic relationships is also emphasized. In fact, Norris highlights the value of friendship by criticizing phrases like “more than friends,” which implies that friendship is less significant than romance, “despite good friendships being just as likely to be intense, enjoyable, and long-lasting.” Readers are also reminded of the importance of self-love and warned about exciting but ultimately toxic relationships. At times hilarious and at others just embarrassingly accurate, the book feels like a warm hug. The unshaded, candy-colored, geometric illustrations are simple, yet they still manage to celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Refreshing, funny, and comforting.