B+

I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation

I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation is exactly what it says it is – a graphic memoir in which comics illustrator Natalie Nourigat describes moving from Portland, Oregon, where she did freelance work, to Los Angeles, California, where she currently works as a storyboard artist. It’s a vibrant and personal description of how to apply for a job in animation, what the job itself is like, and how to live in L.A. on an animator’s budget.

This book combines blocks of text with playful art in shades of pink and blue. At the end, there are interviews with other animators which helps round out the perspectives. Nourigat talks about the pros and cons of living in L.A., and how much she loves being part of the animation community and having a regular paycheck. But she also talks about missing the artistic freedom and control of working on her own projects.

For anyone who may be considering careers in animation or who have some other strong interest in the field, I’d recommend this book as an ideal read. In terms of general appeal, it’s more of a guide than a memoir, and it certainly isn’t the kind of memoir that crosses genre or topic lines to appeal to everyone. For me, as someone who is curious but not interested in switching careers, it’s a B+. However, I do think it’s an excellent resource for people considering such a career, as well as a fun behind the scenes peek for animation fans.

– Carrie S

The story of one woman’s quest to move to Los Angeles and got a job in animation…and how you can too.
When artist Tally Nourigat left her life in Portland to move to Los Angeles and pursue a job in animation, she realized that despite her research, nothing truly prepared her for the wild world that awaited in the studios of Southern California. From grinding on storyboard test after storyboard test to getting a job at a major studio to searching for an apartment in…the Valley…this autobiographical how-to graphic novel explores the highest highs and lowest lows of pursuing a dream in animation. Brushed with a dose of humor and illustrated advice about salaries, studio culture, and everything in between, I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation is the unique insider experience you won’t find anywhere else.