When I first began my Master's program in Library Educational Media, I wasn't familiar with the term "graphic novel". To me, a graphic novel sounded like an explicit book of fiction. Well, happily, I was wrong! A graphic novel is simply a story/novel conveyed in comic form. There is a plot with character development. In addition, it can be fiction or nonfiction. What is the difference between a graphic novel and a comic book? Not much! Typically, there are three primary differences. The first difference is the binding. A graphic novel is bound like a book. Second, it is a complete story with a beginning, middle and end. Finally, graphic novels can be book-length. Comic books are usually bound in flimsy, newspaper-like material, they are intended to be a series and are usually 30 pages or less.
As you can imagine, graphic novels can be controversial. Many teachers and parents do not see the value in them. It's hard to figure out how a student can be compelled to expand their reading ability through a glorified comic book. However, I see the logic in allowing and even encouraging our children to read them. Personally, I would not have a problem with my child reading select graphic novels. However, I would not want my child to be limited to them. In fact, my son's favorite book series, "Warriors", has multiple graphic novels. He has read almost all of the traditional books in the series and a few of the graphic novels. They are a great supplement to the book and offer an alternative way (through the integration of text and pictures) to build the story.
Graphic novels are most worthwhile for reluctant readers. These are students who are capable of reading but don't enjoy reading. This new medium can appeal to these reluctant readers. There is less text, more support from images and a general feeling of something "different". All of these components can entice a child to read.
If you would like more information on graphic novels, I'm linking the Cooperative Children's Book Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. They're compiled an excellent site with various sources for information on graphic novels. http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/books/graphicnovels.asp
Happy reading,
Susanne
It's so important to draw attention to reading, and attract reluctant readers to it,especially boys. In fact, I've recently completed a feature magazine article on this subject that came out in October, "Help for Struggling, Reluctant Readers." (A copu is available if you'd like to read it)
ReplyDeleteI grew up as a reluctant reader, in spite of the fact that my father published over 70 books. Now I write action-adventures & mysteries, especially for tween boys, that avid boy readers and girls enjoy just as much.
My blog, Books for Boys http://booksandboys.blogspot.com is dedicated to drawing attention to the importance of reading.
Keep up your good work.
Max Elliot Anderson
PS. One of my unpublished manuscripts takes place in Hayneville, AL. That's because my wife has family there. Small world.
Thank you for your insight, Max. I'd love to read your article on struggling readers. In addition, I will happily peruse your blog. I am continually looking for sites to review on my blog and will let you know when I review yours! Definitely a small world!
ReplyDelete