The Hard Tomorrow, a gripping graphic novel published by Drawn and Quarterly, has captured the hearts of readers and critics alike. It has been awarded the prestigious LA Times Book Prize for Best Graphic Novel and has received accolades from prominent sources, including The Guardian, Wired, and NPR, ranking among the best of the year and the decade.

Set in an undefined near future, the story revolves around Hannah, a thirty-something wife and home-health worker who is an antiwar activist. Her husband, Johnny, embodies the archetype of a stay-at-home pothead, who is half-heartedly attempting to build a house for their future before the winter chill arrives. The couple finds themselves in an unusual living situation, currently residing and sharing intimate moments in the back of a truck, while anxiously hoping for a pregnancy that seems perpetually out of reach.

In her quest for conception, Hannah turns to fertility Reddits, a modern-day approach to navigating her challenges. Meanwhile, Johnny’s dreams focus on cultivating plants—kale and tomatoes—to ensure they have enough sustenance should the impending end times arrive. This scenario is not merely a figment of their imagination; it reflects the fragility of their democracy, strained under the burdens of a carceral state and the looming threat of war.

Hannah’s journey is supported by her best friend, Gabby, a queer naturalist whom Hannah idolizes and who provides both emotional support and friendship. On the other hand, Johnny is aided by Tyler, an off-the-grid conspiracy theorist, whose own convoluted notions of reality add another layer of complexity to their lives.

The Hard Tomorrow is a heart-wrenching yet tender narrative, artfully crafted by Eleanor Davis. The author’s ability to weave moments of human connection amidst fear and uncertainty resonates deeply with readers. The graphic novel serves as a cautionary tale that reflects current societal anxieties, compelling readers to ponder the crucial question: What will happen after tomorrow?

This graphic novel is not just a story; it is a reflection of our times, urging readers to confront the realities of the world we live in while still holding onto hope and connection. The Hard Tomorrow invites you to join Hannah and Johnny on their journey, filled with tenderness and urgency, as they navigate the complexities of love and survival in a world fraught with challenges.