Graphic Novels

I have always been a huge fan of graphic novels. I find the medium can tell stories in ways that many others cannot. The pairing of images and words in graphic novels helps to create a dynamism that is often missing from other types of reading. Much of the story is told in images. A facial expression can be difficult to describe effectively in words, but for example pairing a drawing of a frustrated face with text that emphasizes this frustration can get a meaningful moment across with just a few words of dialog. Much of the action takes place in illustration, allowing the character connections and dialogs to have a greater impact. Graphic novels are often seen as being either for children or being just for reluctant or struggling readers, but much like any other type of literature, there is a graphic novel out there for everyone. Instead of looking at graphic novels as a side-step, they should be given the respect of any other form of written media. 

Below are four graphic novels aimed at young audiences, but they can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Brian, Rachel. Consent (For Kids!). Little, Brown Books. 64 pages. $15.99, ISBN 978-0-316-45773-6









Consent can be a difficult topic to address for younger audiences without exposing them to language that may not be appropriate. Brian's Consent (For Kids!) is a fantastic primer on what the word consent means, how to express yourself firmly, and how to protect yourself not only from larger issues, but to something as simple as not wanting to give a hug or a high five. Consent is something that should be taught regardless of age, and Brian's work here does a great job presenting the topic in a youth-friendly way while still getting the major ideas across clearly.


Shiga, Jason. Adventuregame Comics: Leviathan. Amulet/Abrams. 144 pages. $14.99, ISBN 978-1-4197-5779-2








Combining games, puzzles, action, adventure, and choose-your-own-path fun, Shiga's Adventuregame Comics starts here with Leviathan. Follow a sixteen year old adventurer on a quest to destroy the evil Leviathan who terrorizes the land. Adventure yourself by making choices of where to go, when to go there, and how to answer questions. Interactivity is the name of the game, with numerous pathways to follow and secrets to uncover. Can you stop the Leviathan from dooming any more ships? Or will you uncover secrets never before exposed?

Sell, Chad. The Cardboard Kingdom. Knopf. 288 pages. $18.99, ISBN 978-1-5247-1937-1







A well-told collection of stories about creativity and exploration. The Cardboard Kingdom is a collection of stories shared by ten authors and collected and illustrated by Chad Sell. Full-color, glossy pages explore rich, creative experiences from monster fighting to what makes a true friend and everything in between. Fans of middle grade graphic novels from Reina Telgemeier and Victoria Jamieson will feel right at home in this cardboard creation.

Paulsen, Bree. Garlic and the Vampire. Quill Tree Books. 160 pages. $15.99, ISBN 978-0-06-299509-4









Rich artwork full of warmth and character tell this tale of Garlic and her vegetable-turned-conscious counterparts including Carrot and Celery. They live with and were animated by Witch Agnes to help her on her farm before learning to speak and becoming true partners on the farm. When smoke appears from the long-thought-empty Vampire's castle, Garlic must quest to confront the new tenant and put an end to his evil. A surprising twist helps tell this tale of finding bravery and overcoming obstacles, as well as learning to understand others and their differences. Perhaps Garlic and her fellow vegetable friends have fallen into the trap of misjudging others. A delightful tale told wonderfully, with plenty of heart.


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