The Initiates

Starred review from April 1, 2013
This intensely thought-provoking graphic novel makes us pause to consider our relationships with other people and asks us to think about who we are, what we do, and how we perceive and relate to the world around us. Davodeau (Le Constat) approaches wine maker Richard Leroy with a proposition: that the two spend several months together teaching one another about their respective vocations. Leroy would read graphic novels, attend conventions, and meet people in the industry, while Davodeau would learn the ins and outs of harvesting a grape crop and running a vineyard. Those perusing the opening pages may wonder whether the book will simply be an exercise in telling, with the “experts” explaining to one another—and therefore to us—the day-to-day concerns of their profession. Instead, what comes through clearly is that both men genuinely appreciate others whose attitudes and principles decidedly differ from their own. Davodeau reinforces this idea of quiet appreciation with a muted color palette, as well as through his consummate skill in illustrating moments of careful consideration and reflection so important to both of his characters’ vocations.

Starred review from March 1, 2013

Award-winning cartoonist Davodeau and winemaker Richard Leroy decide to educate each other about their respective professions. For more than a year, Davodeau works in the vineyards and tags along to visit barrel-makers and other wine professionals. Leroy in turn does "assigned reading," visits Davodeau's studio and his publisher, meets cartoonists, and goes to a comics festival. All the while they talk about wine and comics and life and philosophy, deciding that both wine and comics bring people together. Realistic yet pleasantly tongue in cheek, the book finishes with two lists: wines drunk by Davodeau and comics read by Leroy, each under the other's tutelage. VERDICT The excellent writing, characterizations, and tranquil-yet-stimulating vibe make this a treat to savor slowly, like wine. Davodeau's smoky realism, though black-and-white, manages to suggest the full range of wine-growing climate shifts. Oenophiles will love this and the merely curious will be plenty satisfied. Unfortunately, Davodeau is not as forthcoming about how he personally creates comics as Leroy is about the vintner's craft.--M.C.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 15, 2013
French comics artist Davodeau approached winemaker Richard Leroy with the proposition that they switch roles for a year: Davodeau would work in the vineyard, and Leroy would learn about comics. The resulting graphic novel recounts their experience: Davodeau prunes vines, plows fields, and educates his palate with numerous tastings; Leroy accompanies him on visits to his publisher, meets some of France's most renowned comics artists, and dutifully completes assigned readings of selected graphic novels. By the end of the year, each is well versed about the other's world, and the reader has learned much about winemaking and comics as well. Davodeau finds parallels between the pair's occupations, from the personal satisfaction they take in their products to the need to please an audience. His straightforward black-and-white drawings convey the tranquil beauty of the vineyards and the bustle of France's comics festivals. Readers will have to take the author's word about the excellence of Leroy's wines; but Davodeau's proficiency as a storyteller is apparent on every page of this entertaining and enlightening account.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)