Books of Wonder

Always Human

Always Human - Main image
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In the near-future, people use technology to give the illusion of all kinds of body modifications-but some people have "Egan's Syndrome," a highly sensitive immune system that rejects these "mods" and are unable to use them. Those who are affected maintain a "natural" appearance, reliant on cosmetics and hair dye at most to help them play with their looks.

Sunati is attracted to Austen the first time she sees her and is drawn to what she assumes is Austen's bravery and confidence to live life unmodded. When Sunati learns the truth, she's still attracted to Austen and asks her on a date. Gradually, their relationship unfolds as they deal with friends, family, and the emotional conflicts that come with every romance. Together, they will learn and grow in a story that reminds us no matter how technology evolves, we will remain . . . always human.

Rendered in beautiful detail and an extraordinary color palette, Always Human is a sweet love story told in a gentle sci-fi setting by a queer woman cartoonist, Ari North.

Customer Reviews (4.4 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Emily U. ★★★★★

I was worried the sci-fi premise would feel cold, but the emotional core of the body mod rejection really grounds it. The way the art style shifts during the most vulnerable moments pulled me right in. Finished it in one sitting, which I haven't done in ages.

Lucy O. ★★★★★

The way Egan's Syndrome is woven into the story feels so real, not just a plot device—it really makes you think about what it means to be human. I finished it in one sitting and immediately wanted to reread it.

Harper ★★★★★

I wasn't sure how the Egan's Syndrome angle would play out, but the way it’s woven into the future-tech setting feels so human and raw. The pacing is perfect for a graphic novel, and the art really sells the emotional weight without overdoing it.