Graphic novels are an increasingly popular format for young
adults. They are not a genre because they can be written on a variety of
topics, and can be both fiction and nonfiction. Graphic novels use
illustrations to tell the story, and they are just as important in delivering
the information as the text is. Graphic novels are similar to comics, however
their content is more complex as it mirrors regular novels with in-depth
character and plot development.
Some categories of graphic novels include manga, a style
that reflects Japanese comics and is read from top to bottom, back to front,
and right to left. Superhero stories are another category, which often feature
sagas expanded from comics. Perzines are personal narratives and
autobiographical stories. Lastly, graphic novels can be nonfiction such as
Primates by Jim Ottaviani and Maris Wicks.
As a librarian, it is helpful to know the terminology of the
different parts of a graphic novel when communicating with students. Caption boxes contain the text that narrates
the story. Sound effects are often written in a large and distinct font. Thought and dialogue bubbles are drawn
adjacent to the characters they pertain to, and should generally be read from top
to bottom and left to right. Gutters are the blank space between picture boxes
that help to separate different frames. E-book graphic novels can be clicked on
to expand individual picture boxes.
Graphic novels are fun and can be a great gateway for leisure
reading. Students of all levels can find enjoyment in reading graphic novels.
Just like any other format, graphic novels are available for a wide variety of
reading levels and on a wide variety of subjects. There are even graphic novel
meant for adults. An example is Lucy Knisley’s novel Something New, which tells the hilarious story of someone planning
her wedding.
Graphic novels are also great for reluctant readers and ESL
students, because the appealing visuals carry the plot along and help create meaning
along with the words. Since graphic novels are written for a wide variety of
reading levels, librarians really need to make sure that they are familiar with
the level of a graphic novel before assuming it will help a struggling reader.
A struggling reader who is recommended a graphic novel with high vocabulary and
complex plot will be discouraged, no matter how nice the illustrations are.
For a librarian looking to expand her graphic novel
collection, the Association for Library Service to Children has released yearly
reading lists for graphic novels of high merit, categorized by grade level. The
list can be found here and includes PDF printable to display in
the library. The Texas Library Association also produces a list of esteemed
graphic novels. This is really helpful as a new librarian who will be looking to diversify, expand, and strengthen the collection of whatever library I am assigned.
For further information:
Go: A Kidd’s Guide to
Graphic Design by Chip Kidd is a great resource for librarians to learn
more about graphic design. This book is also wonderful for high school students
who are interested in the field.
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