Merriam-Webster defines a graphic novel as "a story that is presented in comic-strip format and published as a book". Graphic novels utilize a series of panels that typically include graphics, speech bubbles, and thought bubbles in order to tell a story. Graphic novels require the reader to not only read the text, but also to read the illustrations. Graphic novels can come in both fiction and nonfiction formats, as well as a variety of genres. Graphic novels are seen as a format rather than a genre. ("GET GRAPHIC: The World in Words and Pictures". n.d.)
Common Types of Graphic Novels
- Manga - a Japanese form of comics that are read from top to bottom and right to left
- Superhero - think Marvel and DC
- Nonfiction - comes in a variety of topics though autobiographies, biographies, and historical events are most common
- Adaptations - popular novels converted to a graphic novel format (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Hobbit)
Appeals
Genre-Based
Since Graphic novels are a format rather than a genre, the genre appeals apply here too. Does the reader want somethign that is face paced and has a hero like those found in the action genre? Superhero graphic novels or Seinen manga graphic novels may be up his or her alley. Does the reader want a thought-provoking story line, like in literary fiction? An adapataion of a classic nove, such as A Wrinkle in Time, may fill that need. Does the reader want a book that focuses on relationships and romance with easily identifiable characters? A Josei manga novel may be what he or she is looking for. (Saricks, 2009) The same is true of all other genres. These different characteristics can all be found in graphic novel format. The reader, though, must show in interest in that format.
Visual Focus
Graphic novels have a way of showing, rather than telling, a story that is better suited for some readers. Rather than having to try to picture the scenario or setting in their head, graphic novel readers are able to see allof the details on the page. This allows the reader to focus their visual skills in concluding what is happening rather than their reading comprehension and abstract thinking. (Kukkonen, 2013) Graphic novels leave visual clues that lead the reader toward a certain point. These visual clues help to keep the reader in suspense and anticipate what might come next. (Kukkonen, 2013) This means that a reader who has an eye for these type of visual dtails would be more likely to enjoy a graphic novel than a person who sweeps over the illustrations quickly.
Struggling Readers
Struggling readers may find typical novels intimidating. The speed at which a graphic novel can be finished can help to boost students' confidence levels. (Alverson, 2014) For these readers, graphic novels can serve as a bridge or stepping stone into the typical novel. ("GET GRAPHIC: The World in Words and Pictures", n.d.)
Graphic novels also provide ample teaching benefits. If you would like to know more about the benefits of using graphic novels in an educational setting, check out the resources listed below by Alverson and GET GRAPHIC: The World in Words and Pictures.
References
Alverson, B. (2014,
September 08). Teaching With Graphic Novels. Retrieved March 08, 2017, from
http://www.slj.com/2014/09/books-media/the-graphic-advantage-teaching-with-graphic-novels/#_
GET GRAPHIC: The World
In Words and Pictures. (n.d.). Retrieved March 08, 2017, from http://www.getgraphic.org/whatisagraphicnovel.php
Dictionary. (n.d.).
Retrieved March 8, 2017, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/
Kukkonen, K. (2013). Studying
comics and graphic novels. West Sussex, UK: Wiley Blackwell.
Lee, S. (2013, November
17). Stan Lee on what is a superhero. Retrieved March 08, 2017, from
https://blog.oup.com/2013/11/stan-lee-on-what-is-a-superhero/
L. (n.d.). LibGuides:
Graphic Novels and Manga: Manga. Retrieved March 08, 2017, from
http://guides.lib.jjay.cuny.edu/c.php?g=288313&p=1922706
Saricks, J. G. (2009). The
Readers' Advisory Guide to Genre Fiction (Second ed.). American Library
Association.
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