Diving into an unfamiliar genre or format can feel intimidating, but have no fear. Graphic novels might feel "busy" at first, but you'll quickly get into the flow of the comic strips and be able to read each page more naturally. Below, Sarah and I have collected some resources to help you choose, read, and discuss a graphic novel, as well as links to book lists if you're having trouble finding a book that interests you. (Thanks to Erin Helmrich, the graphic novels selector at AADL, for contributing suggestions!)
Plus, we've gotten started with some questions we'll pose at the book club on Monday, October 14th at 7:00 - 9:00 at Bar Louie. Please add your own questions in the comments section so that we can have a lively discussion, and consider adding the book you plan to read for the book club, too!
-Jessica
Plus, we've gotten started with some questions we'll pose at the book club on Monday, October 14th at 7:00 - 9:00 at Bar Louie. Please add your own questions in the comments section so that we can have a lively discussion, and consider adding the book you plan to read for the book club, too!
-Jessica
New to graphic novels?If you're new to graphic novels, try:
TIP: You typically read panels from left-to-right, like text, and read dialogue from left-to-right or top-to-bottom, as appropriate. (Manga is the exception, and most titles published in the US will include instructions about how to read them.) book listsCore Collection of Graphic Novels from ALSC - Updated (2012) list of “essential” graphic novels, organized by school grade Great Graphic Novels for Teens from YALSA - Annual lists of recommended graphic novels Eisner Awards, a well-respected award for achievement in American comic books FUN FACT: Ann Arbor's Vault of Midnight won an Eisner Award for best comics retailer in 2010! Additional ResourceSA Parent’s Guide to the Best Kids’ Comics by Scott Robins and Snow Wildsmith - a guide for parents about comics and graphic novels for kids “Reading with Pictures” - a website by Josh Elder advocating the use of graphic novels in schools | Questions for |