Part 14: Graphic Novels

Part 14: Graphic Novels

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As a form or format, graphic novels may fall under either fiction or nonfiction genres, and may be any type of fiction, such as historical, fantasy, realistic, mystery, or crossovers between different types. Graphic novels are illustrated, resembling a comic in panels format, but of novel length and development. Although graphic novels have often been considered only worthy of recommendation for reluctant readers, they are growing in popularity, appeal to varying audiences and levels, and should be understood and evaluated by educators for readers’ advisory.

Graphic novels are great for teaching mood and tone to students who can use the facial illustrations and other elements for scaffolding, especially English language learners. They are high interest, and can also be completed in a shorter amount of time than full-length novels. Some graphic adaptations, like that of To Kill a Mockingbird, which largely abridges original text and dialogue, help students to better understand the character development and themes of longer texts. Likewise, they can aid in understanding cross-curricular concepts such as in history and science. Nonfiction autobiography and memoir for students, such as El Deafo or Persepolis, provide eye-opening windows to other life and cultural experiences, promoting empathy.

It is important for educators, who often admit to not reading graphic novels themselves, to realize that the graphic format does not lessen the value of reading. Evaluated, good graphic novels are as significant as good literature written in a non-graphic format, and offer their own unique pros and tools as well. Moreover, they can contribute just as meaningfully to the cultivation of lifelong readers. 

Nothing is quite as sad as the genrefied library with a “graphic novels” section that has only a handful of well-worn books leaning on a shelf or two. If nonfiction as a genre is being underutilized in schools, the graphic format has to be one of the most--if not the most--underutilized format. Graphic novels should be promoted, and frequently; they simply need to be evaluated by the same standards to which we hold all solid literature used with students, namely that it is accurate, timely, unbiased, believable, and contains developed, universal themes.