Thick as Thieves (Spiegelman novel)

"Thick as Thieves" is a graphic novel by Art Spiegelman, published in 2004. It is a collaborative work with his daughter, Nadja Spiegelman. The book is a metafictional exploration of storytelling, the relationship between a father and daughter, and the creative process.

Unlike Spiegelman's more famous work, "Maus," "Thick as Thieves" does not deal directly with historical events or trauma. Instead, it focuses on a more intimate and personal narrative. The premise involves a father and daughter embarking on a project of collaborative storytelling, leading to playful and often self-referential interactions that examine the act of creating narratives.

The story utilizes a variety of graphic styles and techniques, reflecting the experimental and playful nature of the collaboration. The artwork is less formally structured than "Maus," embracing a more spontaneous and whimsical aesthetic. This stylistic choice reflects the themes of exploration and discovery central to the narrative.

"Thick as Thieves" can be seen as a commentary on the challenges and rewards of collaboration, as well as a reflection on the intergenerational dynamic between a parent and child. It explores how personal history and individual perspectives shape the stories we tell and the way we interpret them. While less widely discussed than "Maus," "Thick as Thieves" offers a unique and insightful look into Spiegelman's artistic process and his relationship with his daughter.