A Door in the Swamp

This slice of life graphic novel is a coming-of-wisdom story. A deep longing ignites a quest for understanding to support the healing process as Jewel struggles to pick up the pieces of her fractured life. Her husband Clark gets caught up in the negative affects of power and fame in a society that promotes these attributes above all else. We see Jewel cope with deception, family strife, and infidelity by embarking on a psychological investigation in the crucible of divorce. She draws on a myriad of allies and resources, both traditional and alternative, while navigating the swamp of her darkest emotions. Jewel grows in strength by coping with everyday experience in the physical world (depicted in black and white illustration) and by embracing her situation as a metaphorical journey (painted with shades of gray). Eventually she finds her way to higher ground and deeper meaning and begins to understand why the world she and Clark were building together has been torn apart. The story serves as a tonic for anyone dealing with relationships in trying times. The prescription? Be aware of inner guidance and follow the heart, taking risks and healing.