Štepánka Jislová

What is at the core of romantic attachment? Does our upbringing play a part, or is falling in love a magical, uncontrollable process? Are we doomed to repeat the same mistakes over and over, or can we break unhealthy cycles and learn new ways to love? These are the questions asked in Heartcore, an award-winning graphic memoir from comics creator Štepánka Jislová. In this empowering story of self-discovery, the author reflects on her troubled experiences in dating and love and finally seeks to understand the reasons behind her many toxic relationships. She explores topics such as normative gender roles, online dating and casual sex, alcohol abuse, sexual violence, and the psychology behind interpersonal attachment, all in an engaging graphic-novel format. By confronting her unhealthy behaviors and seeking help to come to terms with her trauma, the author provides an inspiring example of how people can change for the better.

It’s time to put on your leisure suit and get to work on whatever. Whatever you want. Whatever. Is it working? No! It’s not working at all. Maybe it’s a sci-fi utopia. Or is it a fantasy? It’s all the time in the world. Odd moments are even. Time is money and everyone’s a billionaire. Spare some time? Here: free time for everyone! High quality time! No work and all play. Published to coincide with the AltCom 2016: WORK festival