Cannon
Some books entertain us while we are reading them, while others quietly stay with us long after we have finished the final page. Cannon by Lee Lai is one of those books for me. It is not a dramatic or loud story, but it draws readers into the emotional lives of its characters with honesty and care. I found myself continuing to reflect on its themes of family, identity, responsibility, and the complicated ways we care for one another. What stood out most was the way the book avoids simple ideas of good and bad, instead showing relationships as they often are in real life: messy, loving, challenging, and deeply human.
As a Creative/Experiential Therapist, I was especially interested in the way the illustrations communicate emotion throughout Cannon. Graphic novels are such a powerful medium because the artwork is not simply an addition to the story; it is part of the storytelling itself. A facial expression, a moment of silence, or the use of space on a page can communicate feelings that words cannot always capture. It reminded me of the importance of creative expression and how images, symbols, and other forms of meaning-making can help us explore experiences that are difficult to put into language.
I was also delighted to learn that Cannon won the 2026 Stella Prize. It is the first graphic novel to receive the award, and Lee Lai became the first non-binary author to win the Stella Prize. This recognition feels significant, not only for Lee Lai, but for the wider recognition of graphic novels as a meaningful literary form and the importance of celebrating diverse voices. Representation matters because it expands whose stories are recognised, valued, and shared. Cannon is a beautiful reminder that some of the most powerful stories are not always the loudest ones. Instead, it invites readers to slow down, reflect, and notice the quiet moments that reveal so much about being human.
Found here: https://link.amazon/B0cshcgga
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