Graphic Novels

"Graphic novels are underappreciated in literary circles, often dismissed as “comic books” for kids or light reading unworthy of literary consideration. However, this perception rapidly changes as educators, scholars, and readers recognize their unique and profound benefits. Far from being mere picture books, graphic novels offer a rich reading experience that engages a wide range of readers."

By Elizabeth Sagran
"Sales of graphic novels have doubled over the past five years, to some parents’ dismay. But data shows these books can have a positive lifelong impact on young readers."

"Historical graphic novels can provide students a nuanced perspective into complex subjects in ways that are difficult, and sometimes impossible, to characterize in conventional writing and media, says Stanford historian Tom Mullaney."

The Senate Comic Book Hearings of 1954
October 26, 2022

By Nimah Gobir
"POW! SMACK! BAM! The sounds of a classic comic book fight scene have not always been associated with academic opportunities, yet many teachers see students reaching for graphic novels and comic books more often than traditional books."

American Library Association listing for the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table Top Graphic Novels for Adults Reading List

“In neurology, this is called the ‘pictorial superiority effect’ […] If I present information to you orally, you’ll probably only remember about 10% 72 hours after exposure, but if I add a picture, recall soars to 65%. So we are hard-wired to find visualization more compelling than a spreadsheet.”

By Jennifer Marshall
International Literacy Association Blog