Meaning: "I Never Liked You" is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Canadian cartoonist Chester Brown. The quote you provided is from Brown himself, expressing his personal opinion about the book. In this quote, Brown asserts that "I Never Liked You" is his best work, both in terms of storytelling and artwork. He believes that the book effectively operates on multiple levels, making it a significant achievement for him as an artist.

The graphic novel "I Never Liked You" was originally serialized in comic book form before being collected into a single volume in 1994. The story is a semi-autobiographical account of Brown's teenage years, exploring themes of adolescent angst, social alienation, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative follows the protagonist, based on Brown himself, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence, including his struggles with romantic feelings, friendships, and family dynamics.

In terms of storytelling, Brown's use of the graphic novel format allows him to convey the emotional nuances of the protagonist's experiences with remarkable depth. The book is notable for its candid and unflinching portrayal of the protagonist's inner turmoil, as well as the interactions and conflicts he faces in his personal life. Brown's storytelling is characterized by its raw honesty and vulnerability, capturing the emotional turbulence of adolescence with a striking authenticity.

In addition to its compelling narrative, Brown's artistic style in "I Never Liked You" has garnered acclaim. The drawings in the graphic novel are rendered with a minimalist yet evocative approach, utilizing stark black-and-white imagery to convey the mood and atmosphere of the story. Brown's artistic choices contribute to the overall impact of the book, enhancing the emotional resonance of the narrative and immersing readers in the protagonist's world.

The quote also sheds light on Brown's personal attachment to "I Never Liked You," indicating that the book holds a special place in his body of work. Brown's assertion that it works on both storytelling and artistic levels underscores his satisfaction with the creative achievement of the graphic novel. His statement reflects the significance of "I Never Liked You" as a meaningful and impactful project for him as an artist.

In the broader context of graphic novels and autobiographical storytelling, "I Never Liked You" stands out as a poignant and introspective work that resonates with readers on a deeply human level. Through his exploration of personal experiences and emotions, Brown invites readers to empathize with the protagonist's journey and contemplate universal themes of identity, longing, and the complexities of human connection.

Overall, Chester Brown's "I Never Liked You" is a significant work in the realm of graphic novels, acclaimed for its compelling storytelling and evocative artwork. Brown's personal endorsement of the book as his best work underscores its impact and relevance within his body of artistic creations. As a poignant exploration of adolescence and personal introspection, "I Never Liked You" continues to captivate and resonate with readers, solidifying its place as a standout achievement in the medium of graphic storytelling.