ARE GRAPHIC NOVELS JUST FOR BOYS? A STUDY ON THE INTERESTS OF 5TH
GRADE STUDENTS IN READING GRAPHIC NOVELS.
When educators attempt to provide students with reading materials, they often search for
a variety of texts that meet a diverse range of interests. As any high quality teacher is aware,
students, especially struggling readers, need to have access to texts that intrigue and cater to each
student’s interests. In recent years, one form of text that is beginning to be utilized in classrooms
for learning purposes is graphic novels. Graphic novels have long been regarded as a unique
byproduct of comic books. What once was perceived as a text purely for comic book aficionados
is now proving to hold a particular stake in education. The benefits of graphic novels have been
identified as not only serving as a motivation factor, but also aiding in reading skills.
Additionally, graphic novels have been touted as a tool in the development of cognitive activity
(Lavin, 1998).
As it currently stands, graphic novels have been studied primarily with regard to the
motivation factors they present for boys. Previous research has proposed that graphic novels
serve as a motivator for struggling male readers, while providing them with the needed contextual
clues to aid in comprehending narrative texts. However, with their arrangement of text, engaging
plots and vivid graphics, educators should explore the possibility of providing graphic novel
options to all of their students.
This study explores students’ interest and engagement in reading graphic novels and the
factors that contribute to their enjoyment or dissatisfaction. The purpose of the study is to
examine the characteristics of graphic novels that appeal to male and female students and to
answer the questions, “Do graphic novels appeal equally to male and female students? Do graphic
novels appeal equally to readers and non-readers? What are the characteristics of graphic novels
that appeal to students?” Finally, “Will exposure to graphic novels change students’ interest in
reading graphic novels?