Mattie Lubchansky’s “Simplicity” Explores Trans Identity and Dystopia in a Bold New Graphic Novel

This summer, acclaimed cartoonist and illustrator Mattie Lubchansky introduces “Simplicity,” a genre-blending graphic novel that uses speculative fiction to interrogate pressing real-world issues through a distinctly queer lens. Published by Pantheon in July 2025, “Simplicity” has already sparked conversation for its layered narrative and vibrant art, pushing forward the boundaries of trans representation in graphic literature .

Set in a not-so-distant future, “Simplicity” follows Lucius Pasternak, a timid academic dispatched from the fortified, corporate-run “New York City Administrative and Security Territory” into the wilds of the Catskill Mountains. There, he is tasked with investigating a mysterious commune rumored to be a cult. What begins as a mission for anthropological research quickly becomes a transformative journey as Lucius encounters a society that challenges the rigid binaries and authoritarian structures of the world he left behind .

Blending elements of ecohorror, cyberpunk, and utopian fiction, Lubchansky’s narrative refuses to shy away from the complexities of gender, power, and community. The story’s speculative setting becomes a vehicle for exploring the possibilities of queer, trans, and nonbinary existence outside of societal control.

Lubchansky, well known for their previous works “Boys Weekend” and “The Antifa Super-Soldier Cookbook,” centers queerness not only in the novel’s themes, but in its very structure and visual storytelling. In a recent interview, Lubchansky describes how the book’s queerness is “certainly connected to the political and ideological themes” and also “connected to the form of the book,” suggesting that the medium of comics itself—its hybridity, its visual and textual interplay—offers unique tools for representing trans experience .

According to Lubchansky, the process of creating “Simplicity” involved carefully constructing each page to control the reader’s emotional journey, drawing influence from science fiction greats like Ursula K. Le Guin. This approach allows for a nuanced depiction of identity, transformation, and belonging—issues central to many LGBTQ+ readers .

Lubchansky’s work arrives at a time when trans and nonbinary voices are gaining unprecedented visibility in comics and literature, but also face renewed political threats. “Simplicity” joins a growing canon of trans-authored works that use speculative fiction to imagine alternative futures and critique existing systems of power. The book’s detailed, expressive artwork and sharp wit invite a broad readership without compromising on its trans-affirming perspective .

Lubchansky’s previous contributions to anthologies such as “Be Gay Do Comics” and “2 Trans 2 Furious: An Extremely Serious Journal of Transgender Street Racing Studies” (a Lambda Literary Award winner) established their reputation for blending humor, political insight, and heartfelt storytelling . “Simplicity” builds on this legacy, using speculative elements to ask urgent questions about autonomy, solidarity, and the meaning of community for marginalized people.

Early reviews have praised “Simplicity” for its lush illustrations, tight plotting, and ability to balance satire with empathy . The book’s release has been accompanied by interviews and features in LGBTQ+ and literary media, where Lubchansky discusses both craft and the political stakes of their work. For transgender readers, “Simplicity” offers a rare vision of trans life at the center of a complex, hopeful narrative.

As debates about censorship and representation continue across the U.S. and beyond, works like “Simplicity” highlight the importance of LGBTQ+ creators telling their own stories. Lubchansky’s approach—merging activism, artistry, and deeply personal themes—demonstrates that graphic novels can be more than entertainment: they are vehicles for imagining new futures and building community.

“Simplicity” is available now from Pantheon and at independent bookstores nationwide. Readers interested in learning more about Mattie Lubchansky’s work or contacting the author can visit mattielubchansky.com .