REVIEW: I moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation

I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation
Author: Natalie Nourigat

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I have several friends who dream of getting a break and finding a dream job in films or animation. Either field is a daunting and often completely intimidating prospect....most never get a call-back or an interview. When I got offered a review copy of Natalie Nourigat's graphic  novel about her start in animation, I jumped on the chance to read it. I was so curious about how animation careers work and how people get started.

Natalie illustrates and tells her story with humor and honesty. She talks about the pros and cons of the industry, moving to LA, and the costs, work loads and pitfalls. She even talks about what it was like to move to a very large city to live on her own for the first time. She had to learn how to deal with being lonely sometimes, and how to start getting out and making her life more than drive to work, work, drive home, sleep, repeat. It's a lesson we all have to learn....but it's a bit rougher alone in a huge metro area.

This book could be a very important learning tool for art school students and those truly interested in pursuing animation as a career. Natalie talks openly about how much effort, time and patience was required for her to get through the interview process and snag a job.

I love the artwork! It's simple, understated and perfect for this book's purpose. Her words are straight-forward and honest. She talks openly about what has been good and bad about her career choice, LA and her start in a very competitive (but awesomely creative) career.

Full stars from me. I'm not an art student (I totally lack the talent, but love to be cheerleader for anyone I meet who does have artistic talent), but I found the information incredibly interesting. It made me think about all the people, work and creativity behind some of the animated movies and shows I love! So much time, effort and creativity go into each project!

**I received a free review copy of this graphic novel from Boom! Studios. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. Congrats on the awesome job, Natalie! You rock!)