Named one of the best graphic novels of the year by Library Journal, The Hypo gives us a glimpse into a little-talked-about period of Abraham Lincoln's life before he became president.  As a 28 year-old lawyer, criticized young politician, burdened with debt and new to Springfield, Lincoln is constantly struggling with meloncholia, or "the hypo".  Far from the wise, confident leader he will be known as years later, this portrait of Lincoln is one of a deeply-flaw, self-critical and sometimes miserable young man.  Even when he meets his intellectual match in  Mary Todd, Lincoln battles with his fear of failing to meet expectations. Only when he overcomes a nervous breakdown is he able to confront his insecurities and begin to evolve into the force we have all come to know him as.  A love story, political drama and biography in one, The Hypo, is an engaging look at of our most famous president. Emotionally rendered in black cross-hatching and reflective of the period in language and scenery, the story is a beautiful example of a graphic novel that also functions as a vivid historical account.