Rethinking Graphic Novels
Published on August 13, 2024
By Tricia B.
Graphic Novels are a popular and exciting option for any reader. These fun novels fly off the shelves when I take the Bookmobile to stops with elementary age kids. My own kids choose graphic novel options over more traditional novels on a regular basis.
The sheer popularity is slightly... suspect. So maybe you’re wondering, “Is my child learning as much when reading graphic novels?” or “Do graphic novels really count as reading?” As the popularity of these books has increased, so has the research on why graphic novels are a great option for kids of all ages.
Teachers and many experts agree that graphic novels will increase a child’s reading skills like any other type of book would. The research shows that kids are more likely to read books they pick out themselves, the ones they’re interested in. Graphic novels are full of rich plots and compelling visual elements that draw kids in. When the end goal is to get kids to read more, why not appeal to what they are drawn to?
I have also been guilty of wanting my children to read novels that I feel would be more challenging for them. My fourth grader is a voracious reader who enjoys many types of text and different subjects. But again and again she seems to gravitate towards the graphic novel section of the library. The truth is, those are the books she will sit and devour in one setting. For me, the fact that she is excited about the book is what really matters. I don’t like being told what I should or shouldn’t read, and neither do kids.
Not only are graphic novels exciting and appealing to kids, there are also some benefits that are unique to this type of literature.
- Graphic novels improve visual literacy as well as vocabulary. Visual literacy is a skill that’s becoming important in a world where students must interpret many different forms of media. The thought bubbles and nonlinear reading style in graphic novels help kids use their imagination and practice visual literacy. Graphic novels also tend to use more complex vocabulary than typical conversations and introduce children to new words, the same as more traditional forms of reading.
- Graphic novels are full of complex plots and diverse characters. The unique way a story is conveyed can help spark creativity for the reader. Reading about characters that are different from oneself can help children empathize and relate to others, increasing social skills.
- Graphic novels can be a great option for children of all different reading levels and those with learning disabilities. The images in graphic novels can often prevent frustration or burnout in kids who may struggle with longer blocks of reading. The short sentences and contextual tools can help kids deduct the meaning of the sentence and increase confidence in their reading abilities.
If you see your children darting for graphic novels next time you visit the library, remember these benefits to keep that nagging voice at bay that says, “Is this challenging enough?” You can be confident they’re growing their reading skills while enjoying what they love.
Here are some great graphic novels to enjoy:
Kristy's Great Idea: I enjoyed reading this with my kids. This updated version of the original will be sure to give you some nostalgia if you grew up in the 90s. Kids enjoy following the four friends who start a club for babysitting.
InvestiGATORS: This series is sure to get some laughs out of any age. These alligators are catching criminals and using cool gadgets.
Sorceline: A fun fantasy book with a mystery. Sorceline lives on the Island of Vorn, where mythical creatures roam and only the best students are invited to study them. But Sorceline clashes with her classmates.
A Wrinkle in Time: An update on the classic story of a girl who travels through space and time to save her father and defeat an evil that is infecting the universe.