By Edwin Ronald Lambert 
Introduction
Seconds is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Bryan Lee O’Malley, best known for his Scott Pilgrim series. It was published in 2014 by Ballantine Books and steps confidently into the realm of magical realism, fantasy, and slice-of-life storytelling.
When I picked this up, I expected something quirky, maybe nostalgic, but I didn’t realize just how much it would resonate with me. By the end, I gave it a solid 4/5 stars. It was one of those reads that catches you off guard—not just because of how visually fun it is, but how quietly reflective it becomes.
The premise might seem simple: what if you could undo your past mistakes? But what makes Seconds special is that it leans into that idea with heart, humor, and just the right touch of existential dread.
Rating: 4/5
Seconds
Bryan Lee O’Malley
Pages: 323 pages
First published: July 15, 2014
Genres: Graphic Novels, Comics, Fantasy, Fiction, Young Adult, Adult, Humor
Summary of “Seconds”
Katie, our red-haired, sassy, slightly ego-prone protagonist, is a talented chef with a streak of bad decisions. She co-founded a successful restaurant (also called Seconds), but finds herself creatively stifled, emotionally tangled, and—like most of us—desperately wanting a do-over.
Then comes a house spirit, a strange set of rules, and a magical notebook paired with some very peculiar mushrooms. One wish at a time, Katie starts editing her life. And at first, things seem better… until the world begins to crack around the edges.
Seconds takes place in a cozy, grounded town, but it unravels into a story that’s anything but ordinary.
My Thoughts
Writing & Tone
Bryan Lee O’Malley’s writing hits that sweet spot between whimsical and honest. Katie feels like someone I might’ve known (or maybe even been at one point): headstrong, impulsive, good-hearted but a little reckless. The dialogue is sharp, the narration is quirky, and the pacing mostly works—though there were a couple of spots where the plot dipped slightly or felt too neatly wrapped up.
What really stood out to me was how it handled regret—not with melodrama, but with quiet realism tucked inside magical chaos.
Art Style
Now this—this is where Seconds really shines. The artwork is fluid, warm, and packed with personality. The color palette leans into cozy reds and deep shadows, and there’s a softness to the line work that makes every panel feel inviting—even when things start getting eerie.
O’Malley’s visual humor is still very much alive. Every expression, every surreal visual moment (especially when Katie breaks the rules of reality) feels intentional and clever. It’s fun. It’s weird. It’s charming.
Themes & Emotional Core
At its core, Seconds is about accepting that you can’t always fix everything—and that maybe you’re not supposed to. As someone who occasionally stays up too late overthinking past choices, this hit home.
The book isn’t telling you to forget your mistakes. It’s reminding you that learning from them is what matters. And honestly? That message, wrapped in mushrooms, spirits, and snarky inner monologues, is a pretty great way to spend a couple of hours.
Favorite Lines
“Even when you get a second chance, there’s no guarantee it will all go perfectly.”
Audience Appeal
This book would appeal to:
- Fans of magical realism – If you enjoy stories like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind or Coraline, Seconds offers a similar blend of whimsy and depth.
- Graphic novel lovers – The art and layout elevate the story beautifully.
- Anyone facing crossroads in life – Especially 20- or 30-somethings questioning their path.
To Whom Would I Recommend This Book?
I’d recommend Seconds to:
- Young adults or adults navigating change – It offers comfort and insight.
- Artists and creatives – Katie’s struggle with control and imperfection hits close to home.
- Fans of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s previous work – It’s stylistically different from Scott Pilgrim, but just as engaging.
Find reviews of more Young Adult books here.
Other Book Recommendations
If you liked Seconds, you might also enjoy:
- Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol – A mix of supernatural and coming-of-age drama.
- Daytripper by Fábio Moon and Gabriel Bá – A philosophical look at life’s choices.
- Through the Woods by Emily Carroll – A darker, atmospheric visual storytelling experience.
Final Thoughts
Seconds is about what happens when we try to rewrite our lives—and how that rewrite can sometimes overwrite the parts that mattered most. It’s funny, poignant, visually delightful, and deeply human.
No, it’s not perfect. But maybe that’s the point.
Would I read it again? Absolutely.
Would I change anything about it? Maybe.
What would you do with a second chance?
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