Summary
This study was conducted in a fifth grade classroom with 48 participantsin January of
2012. The study’s purpose was to evaluate male and female interests and perceptions of graphic
novels. The students’ reading interests and attitudes towards reading were determined using two
10-question Likert style surveys. This data were stored for further analysis. The researcher
provided students with an introductory presentation on graphic novels, including three book
talks. This allowed students to have a basic understanding of the components, uses, and features
of graphic novels. Students also completed an assessment inventory on a graphic novel of their
choice. The results of the surveys and assessments were used to determine if a change in the
students’ perceptions and attitudes about graphic novels has occurred.