The Winter of the Cartoonist

By Paco Roca. Published by Fantagraphics. 

Hardcover, 128 pages, Colour, 2020. 

A graphic nonfiction story of the five extraordinary cartoonists who decided to rebel in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War and WWII.

In 1957, Editorial Bruguera was one of Spain's largest publishing houses, putting out hugely popular weekly magazines and comics for young and old — while retaining all rights and creative control of their artists' work. Spanish comics superstar Paco Roca investigates the true story of five cartoonists who, spurred by poor working conditions, arbitrary editorial edicts, and nationwide dictatorial rule, went on a quest for creative freedom. Little did they know that the corporation had begun actively trying to thwart their distribution and publishing efforts, turning their battle into a real-life David and Goliath tale. The Winter of the Cartoonist provides historical context and short profiles of these artists as they serve as everyday heroes for all of those who have chased a dream, no matter how high the obstacles that stand in front of them.

"Roca's massively appealing illustration and masterly sense of narrative make this true story exceptionally compelling." — Library Journal (starred review)

"Roca offers a probing look into the lives and struggles of cartoonists in the wake of the Spanish Civil War." — The Beat

"Roca's visual style is an appealing, effective amalgamation of cartoonishness and realism … distinguished by its gentle humor and sympathetic if ultimately unsparing compassion." — Booklist

"This elegantly drawn, snappy tale of creativity under pressure aims to inspire." — Publishers Weekly