Self Portrait, Ludwig Volbeda

Description

Self Portrait
Hardcover – November 4, 2025
by Ludwig Volbeda (Author)
Translated by Lucy Scott

Winner of the Rainbow Book of the Year

“I know of no other book that so tenderly, convincingly, and completely authentically captures the quest of a young, queer character. Beautiful!” — Benny Lindelauf

Jip’s spring break assignment sounds simple: draw a self-portrait. But when you’re a young artist searching for your place in the world—and maybe falling in love for the first time—seeing yourself clearly is anything but easy.

As Jip sketches, his mind drifts to fireflies, to the mysterious new boy in class, and to the shifting feelings that blur the lines between friendship and something deeper. What emerges is a portrait not just of a face, but of awakening—tender, uncertain, and full of light.

Award-winning author Ludwig Volbeda brings his distinctive, delicate artistry to this intimate coming-of-age story, rendered with both lyrical prose and breathtaking line illustrations. Translated by Lucy Scott, Self Portrait captures the luminous ache of first love and self-discovery with rare emotional precision.

A modern classic for queer teens and anyone who has ever tried to draw themselves into being.