Mimi Pond's new graphic novel about British Aristocrats

Mimi Pond, acclaimed for her distinctive wit and evocative illustration style, is once again capturing public attention with her latest graphic novel, Do Admit: The Mitford Sisters and Me. The book chronicles the lives of the six Mitford sisters, Nancy, Pamela, Diana, Unity, Jessica, and Deborah, whose existence was defined by glamour, scandal, and audacity. Pond brings a unique perspective to the narrative, blending historical recounting with her personal reflections, illustrating how the sisters’ bold personalities and controversial choices resonated with her own artistic sensibilities.

Growing up in California during the 1960s, Pond was fascinated by the Mitford sisters. Their aristocratic drama stood in stark contrast to her suburban upbringing, and their audacity became a lens through which she examined society and its expectations of women.

Pond’s earlier works, such as The Valley Girls’ Guide to Life, demonstrated her talent for capturing cultural nuances and the complexities of female experience. Similarly, her graphic novels Over Easy and The Art of Mimi Pond were celebrated for blending personal narrative with broader cultural commentary, gaining praise for their humor, honesty, and relatable yet visually striking storytelling. Critics and readers alike responded enthusiastically to these works, noting how Pond’s ability to merge memoir and illustration creates a compelling, immersive experience that transcends traditional graphic novel boundaries.

In Do Admit, Pond expands on this approach, offering a detailed portrait of the Mitford sisters within the broader context of early 20th-century British society. She explores their relationships, political leanings, and social impact, crafting a narrative that is both enlightening and entertaining.

Her illustrations capture both the opulence and underlying tension of the era, allowing readers to feel the grandeur and eccentricity that characterized the sisters’ world. What makes the book particularly compelling is how Pond interweaves her own journey with that of her subjects, providing a dual narrative that examines both historical events and their enduring cultural resonance.

The release of Do Admit is also a milestone in Pond’s ongoing evolution as a graphic novelist. Each of her previous works was lauded for its meticulous attention to detail and emotional depth. Over Easy, for instance, was praised for its tender and humorous portrayal of adolescence. At the same time, The Art of Mimi Pond showcased her versatility as both a storyteller and a visual artist. With Do Admit, she combines historical research, cultural insight, and personal commentary in a way that feels both fresh and immersive, demonstrating her growth and confidence as a creator.

Scheduled for release in October 2025 by Jonathan Cape, Do Admit is attracting attention from both historical enthusiasts and graphic novel aficionados. By connecting the past with her own experiences, Mimi Pond demonstrates why she is regarded as one of the leading voices in contemporary graphic storytelling. Do Admit is not only a celebration of the Mitford sisters’ lives but also a testament to Pond’s artistry and her enduring ability to illuminate human stories with humor, insight, and vivid visual storytelling.