I’ve actually been plowing through the book Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks: An Epic Quest for Reality Among Role Players, Online Gamers, and Other Dwellers of Imaginary Realms for the last few weeks. If you have ever watched all the Lord of the Rings movies back to back, or showed up at the local bookstore at midnight to get the latest Harry Potter book, or maybe you played World of Warcraft a couple times, then this book is for you. The book takes a look at escapism in many forms, from Dungeons and Dragons to Wizard Rock (Think Harry and the Potters).

We follow the author (Ethan Gilsdorf) on his personal journey across continents to reconnect with his inner geek and along the way discover that being a “nerd” isn’t so bad. Ethan’s has shed some light onto this gaming and fantasy culture and has been able to share the stories of all the people he met along his voyage. This book is the perfect mix of astounding facts and a comical glimpse into the lives of ordinary people, who just might live next door to you

I love autobiographical comics. Especially the ones that make you laugh out loud on the subway so that everyone turns their head and looks at the crazy girl sitting by herself holding her stomach and trying to keep those chuckles inside. Will you still love me if I wet the bed by Liz Prince is a glimpse into the daily life of the Liz herself. Filled with offbeat banter and the adorable and gross relationship with her boyfriend this little book is just perfect. It’s one of those random books that I picked up off the shelf and knew I had to take home immediately. I can promise you that you’ll want to share this little gem with your significant other, even if they are the type that feels out of place in a comic store.

The Vancouver Olympics have come to a close, but in case you haven’t had your fill of Canada I suggest The Complete Essex County by Jeff Lemire. This edition combines his three essex county graphic novels into a hardcover collection. Each of these stories are based in a farmland town in Essex County Ontario, Canada where small town values are rooted in tradition, family, and just getting by.  While each story on its own is filled with heartfelt emotion, combined they remind you that everyone is connected in some small way. Jeff’s storytelling combined with his loose, almost rhythmic drawing style makes for a fulfilling read. It left me examining my bonds with the people around me, and maybe a tear or two left on the page.

Whatcha readin’ is a brand new feature to upstatefancy and I really hope you like it. If you have suggestions for a great book, graphic novel or any other printed materials that you think I’d enjoy please let me know!