Ghost World is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Daniel Clowes. It was originally published as seven issues from 1993 to 1997. In 1997, it was sold as a book and found great popularity in young adult audiences.
The book follows the lives of Enid Coleslaw and Rebecca Dopplemeyer, two best friends and social outcasts who have just graduated high school. It is the early 1990s in Southern California, they are cynical, incredibly intellectual and witty. Enid and Rebecca spend their days aimlessly wandering around their hometown, they criticize pop culture and the townies that they encounter. The book covers their person relationships, their romantic entanglements and, eventually, the dissolution of Enid and Rebecca’s friendship.
Ghost World is known for its dark tone and somber point of view. It has become a cult classic and continues to sell well. A collector’s edition of Ghost World was released in 2008.
It was adapted into a movie in 2001. The screenplay was written by the comic’s arthur, Clowes and it was directed by Terry Zwigoff and starred Thora Birch and Scarlett Johansson. Clowes screenplay was nominated for an Academy Award.
Clowes has kept a close-hand on all things ghost-world related. Other than writing the screenplay for the film, heals was responsible for the artwork of all merchandise and movie posters.
Other comic books by Clowes:
- Lloyd Llewellyn #1-#6
- Eightball
- Wilson