Graphic Novels Explained
The Five Points West Regional Library has an excellent collection of graphic novels. Graphic novels are simply book-length comics. Sometimes they tell a single, continuous story from first page to last; sometimes they are collections of shorter stories or individual comic strips. Comics are sequential art, usually with text, that are often told in a series of rectangular panels.
Despite the name, not all comics are funny. Many comics and graphic novels emphasize drama, adventure, character development, striking visuals, politics, romance, and laugh-out-loud comedy.
Readers have a wide variety to choose from, so readership is no longer limited to fans of superhero escapades or slapstick humor. In addition, greater access to graphic novels—such as public library graphic novel collections—contributes to their growing popularity.
Lorraine Walker
Five Points West Library
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