A Feminist Life, Etc. 


by Beverly McPhail 

Number 2: A Graphic Novel 
Beverly McPhail is currently at work on a graphic memoir entitled, Number 2: How I Survived a Semi-Awful Childhood, Revived a Crushed Spirit, and Raised Socially Conscious Sons. The work touches on multiple themes, such as being the "number 2" daughter in a military family and dealing with family dysfunction including alcoholism and abuse. As a strong-willed and clever child in a family that prized obedience, Beverly's spirit was crushed. However, Beverly details her recovery of spirit through graduate education in social work, psychotherapy, feminism, and a long-term, supportive marriage. The book concludes with a chapter on feminist parenting of sons entitled, Sons of a Bitch: Adventures in Feminist Parenting.

The book is illustrated by Houston artist David Robinson who worked in the graphic arts field for many years. He was inducted into a watercolor artist guild at the tender age of 12. Watercolors and pen & ink are his preferred mediums. David has provided illustrations for other projects, including Brené Brown's, Women and Shame, the book and curriculum. He lives and works in Houston, Texas with his wife.
Favorite Graphic Memoirs 

Stitches: A Memoir by David Small
Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel
The Complete Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi 
Cancer Vixen by Marisa Acocella Marchetto 
Paying for It: A Comic Strip Memoir about Being a John by Chester Brown