Understanding each other is crucial to living in a society. Many of the problems we face today are the result of people closing their eyes and ears to the experiences others go through. But how do you do this? I don’t think there is one person with the solution, but there are many storytellers who can paint a picture to give others who may not have understanding of a situation or lifestyle, a little clarity. I believe that is the objective of the new Image graphic novel The Pervert.

Debut writer Michelle Perez and artist Remy Boydell (Emergency!, Recovery Blogger) will release THE PERVERT, which continues the narrative begun in the Eisner-nominated comics magazine ISLAND in full, painted color this April.

A surprisingly honest and touching account of a trans girl surviving through sex work in Seattle, THE PERVERT is an unflinching debut graphic novel that is preoccupied with work—what we put into our work and what it takes from us.

“This graphic novel’s creation went through a relationship—its end, illness, personal hardship, and great triumph,” said Perez. “Remy and I are happy to share it with the world and with anyone who enjoys truth in storytelling and experience. If you hope, you’ll love this book. If you despair, you’ll love this book. If you wanna piss someone off, you’ll love this book.”

“I spent a lot of time working in a comic book store when I was a kid, looking for things I related to,” said Boydell. “I feel like this book is going to be really important.”

THE PERVERT hits comic book stores Wednesday, April 25th.