Chapter 14: Graphic Novels

 Some people mistakenly call graphic novels a genre, but it is actually a form or format. Graphic novels can be history, fantasy, nonfiction, etc. They are an extension of comic books and tell stories using pictures in sequence, panels, speech balloons, text boxes and other comic book conventions. They are generally longer than comics and have a more developed story line that picture books. In graphic novels the illustrations are a integral component of the story.  Graphic novels are a great way to help teach literary concepts to children. Concepts like foreshadowing, flash back, and symbolism is made more concrete for reading due to the scaffolding of the illustrations.  Graphic novel adaptations of traditional text are a great alternative for readers and can also be used to develop skills in visual literacy. 

Important elements of Graphic novels include:

• color
• line
• composition
• frames
• speech balloons
• use of different approaches

Parts of a graphic novel:

• cover
• inside pages which consist of-
• panels-squares or rectangles that contain scenes
• gutter- space between panels
• dialogue balloons- contain communication between characters
• thought balloons- contain characters' thoughts
• captions- contain additional information about a scene or character
• sound effects- visual sound cues

As silly as it sounds, I must admit that I used to be intimidated by graphic novels. Having never read comic books, I wasn't sure how to follow a graphic novel, but once I found one to read, I realized it's just like reading any book. You follow the story left to right and dialogue balloons are read left to right or top to bottom depending on the book. 

*side note: The first graphic novel I read was My Friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf (aka: John Backderf). If you are into serial killers and murder, I highly recommend it!