Graphic novels are not new, especially for adults. However, in recent years, they
have become enormously popular with children and adolescents. The definition of
graphic novels is still evolving, but as a literature format, I define them as novels
whose stories are told through a combination of illustrations and text. They are longer
than picture books (about 64 to 128 pages), and instead of full-page illustrations,
the story is most often presented in illustrated panels similar to comic books. Most
graphic novels are illustrated with the same artistic quality of modern picture books,
and some fans of this format even consider them a unique art form. Though many
graphic novels are fantasy, they can be found in all genres of literature, and the tone
can be humorous or serious.
The text of graphic novels presents a complete story line with a distinct plot,
whereas comic books and the Japanese version of graphic novels called manga usually
contain episodic stories. A single comic book or manga might start a story, begin
in the middle of things, or end a story. Readers cannot read just one to gain the whole
story. Conversely, graphic novels may have sequels, but each contains a new, complete
plot. Unlike comic books, graphic novels are typically bound in more durable
formats and are available in bookstores and libraries. Like other novels, graphic
novels are given an International Standard Book Number (ISBN), which further differentiates
them from periodicals, such as magazines and comic books.
Some graphic novels, such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid: A Novel in Cartoons
(Kinney), have appeared on coveted best-seller lists. Additionally, some graphic novels
are based on traditional (text only) best-selling novels. A visual learner or a reluctant
reader may be more likely to pick up the graphic version of a book than the
original version that consists of several hundred pages of text. Following is a list of
recommended graphic novels: