Thursday, November 5, 2009

Pedro and Persepolis


In class today, Michelle Epperson and I did a presentation on the parallels between the two books Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi and Pedro and Me by Judd Winick. If you haven't heard of the second book yet, it's another graphic novel based on a true story of six strangers living in San Francisco during the filming of The Real World 3. Pedro was born in Havana, Cuba and immigrated to the United States with his family at a very young age. In his early adulthood, it was revealed that he was gay and had contracted the HIV disease. Judd Winick, a U.S. born citizen, comes onto the show after having money issues as an aspiring cartoonist. This is where he meets Pedro Zamora, a strong-willed individual who fought for gay rights. They soon become very close and eventually even best friends. After the show, Pedro's sickness worsens and on November 11, 1994, Pedro died. In many ways, these two books are similar. For one, they are both graphic novels that explain the struggles of two people. Marjane struggled with her country during the Islamic Revolution, fighting for equal rights, whereas Pedro fought as a gay activist and battled a disease that soon claimed his life. Both books are truly touching and inspirational. Although both stories may contain heartbreaking and saddening stories, you will find yourself often smiling or laughing during some humorous and heartwarming parts. Both books are all about family, friendships, losses, tragedy, but also being proud of who you are and where you came from. Love, M.
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