Sex Criminals, Vol. 1: One Weird Trick Summary & Key Insights

'Sex Criminals, Vol. 1: One Weird Trick' introduces Suzie and Jon, two young adults grappling with their unusual shared secret: during sex, they can stop time. The graphic novel kicks off with Suzie, a struggling bookstore employee grappling with feelings of inadequacy and a volatile relationship with her mother, discovering her power accidentally. Later, she meets Jon, a similarly directionless history student who also experiences the same time-stopping phenomenon during sexual activity.

The initial encounters between Suzie and Jon are marked by both awkwardness and burgeoning attraction. Their individual struggles are intertwined with their shared secret. Suzie uses her ability to steal books from libraries, feeling justified by her lack of financial resources and a perceived societal inequity that prevents her access to knowledge. Jon, meanwhile, uses his power to pull off petty crimes, seemingly motivated by a sense of rebelliousness and lack of purpose.

The central plot of the first volume revolves around Suzie and Jon navigating their newfound power, its limitations, and its implications for their lives. They experiment with their abilities, learning to control the time-stopping effect to a certain extent, but this control is far from perfect and comes with significant risks. The narrative skillfully blends humorous and awkward moments with darker undertones reflecting the characters' insecurities and anxieties.

Their relationship develops throughout the volume, shifting from cautious curiosity and tentative intimacy to something deeper, though never without its challenges. The time-stopping acts act as a metaphor for escaping the mundane aspects of their lives and momentarily seizing control amidst feelings of powerlessness. Their experiences highlight the complexities of intimacy, trust, and the inherent risks associated with their unique abilities.

Underlying the fantastical element is a commentary on societal expectations, particularly concerning women's sexuality and financial independence. Suzie’s actions are presented as a rebellion against the injustices she perceives, while Jon's actions reflect a different kind of rebellion, stemming from a sense of alienation and frustration.

The volume concludes with a cliffhanger, leaving the reader to wonder about the potential consequences of their actions and the future of their developing relationship. The overall tone is one of dark humor, self-discovery, and a touch of surrealism, firmly establishing the unique premise and engaging characters that drive the series forward.