This Beautiful, Ridiculous City: A Graphic Memoir by Kay Sohini is a vividly drawn graphic memoir telling the story of a woman of many talents. Kay Sohini is an immigrant, a writer, a foodie, an optimist, and a survivor with a deep love of anything New York City. From a young age growing up in India, Kay found love and hope through anything related to New York City, be it movies, books, music, or anything else. She turns to New York City in her time of need, so it’s no surprise when Kay decides to move to New York City to escape an abusive relationship.

Switching back and forth between her past in India, her present in New York City, and her first night in New York City on the tarmac of JFK Airport, Kay reflects on how much her life has changed, what she has left behind, and what she has to look forward to. The trauma she left behind in India has forever changed her, but her story is far from over. In fact, she decides to examine her city through the eyes of her favorite writers. Her journey to create a new home in New York City begins with the groundwork of trying to put herself back together. Kay shows, rather than tells, her readers about the great sense of belonging she feels in her new home. This is evident through the evocative and beautiful artwork that radiates through this graphic memoir. Her journey to love herself as much as she loves New York City further highlights how trauma can highlight your truth and how a new city can ease your heart.