'Graphic' novels have something for everyone

From MacKenzie Ledley, Pulaski County Public Library

Graphic novel. What does this term bring to mind? Maybe you think graphic novels are just comics about spandex-clad superheroes. Maybe you think they’re all kids’ stuff; conversely, maybe you think they’re all full of explicit sex and violence. Maybe you think they’re merely inferior substitutes for serious literary works. Maybe the term means nothing to you at all.

Well, okay—so what is a graphic novel? There’s no hard-and-fast definition; opinions differ on whether this or that work counts as a graphic novel, and some authors avoid the term altogether. In general, though, a graphic novel is a story that’s told using sequentially organized panels of images and text. It is a media format that can be used to tell stories of any genre.

In the graphic novel sections at the Pulaski County Public Library, you’ll find currently buzzed-about series (The Walking Dead); superhero comics (Watchmen, Batman: The Court of Owls); Japanese manga (Naruto, Pokémon); memoirs (Maus, Persepolis); biographies (Anne Frank, Feynman); adaptations of classic stories (The Odyssey, Romeo & Juliet), widely loved novels (Black Beauty, A Wrinkle in Time), and contemporary bestsellers (Game of Thrones, Twilight); historical non-fiction (Lewis & Clarke); "Choose Your Own Adventure"-style books (Meanwhile); romance stories (Sand Chronicles); science fiction (To Terra); examinations of mental illness (Psychiatric Tales); religious texts (The Action Bible); and general fiction for all ages. Altogether, the library has over 900 graphic novels.

Reasons to read graphic novels are as varied as the types of stories contained within them. Young children are often drawn to the pictures, and reading graphic novels helps them develop the mechanics of literacy and the ability to make connections between words and images. Older kids and adults can use graphic novels to approach stories or subjects in a way that captivates their interest.

Most importantly, the graphic novel is valuable as a storytelling format in its own right. The combination of words and images allows authors to succinctly add subtle shading to characters and scenes, and it allows readers to interact with the text, consider thematic connections, and travel through a visual narrative at their own pace. Whether for serious reflection or pure entertainment, graphic novels can tell stories differently from any other format.

It’s clear now that the aforementioned preconceptions are based on myths. Graphic novels can be about way more than just superheroes; they can tell stories appropriate for any age; and as a format they have their own virtues, meaning they’re an alternative to (not a replacement for) other media.

If you decide to try a graphic novel, you won’t be alone—their circulation at the library has increased by over 400% in the past two years! All of the graphic novels mentioned are available to check out. If you’re looking for something else, the library staff is happy to answer questions and make recommendations. With more available in the format now than ever before, now’s a great time to come to the library and check out a graphic novel!