In my Special Topics Paper I explained what graphic novels are, and how they may be used in reader's advisory. I first explained that graphic novels are not a genre, they are a medium. Graphic novels can contain stories of many different genres, ranging from romance to science fiction to mysteries. Thinking of graphic novels as a genre can lead to some poor recommendations, so it is important to remember this.
I then covered different kinds of graphic novels, including comics books, manga, comic strips, and original graphic novels. In summary:
Comic books: Serialized stories originally published in a magazine format. Later, several issues will be bound together in a book format, which is what libraries typically use.
Manga: Similar to comic books, but East Asian in origin. They are also serialized first in a magazine format, and then republished later in a book format. However, then are read in "reverse", as East Asian languages read from right to left. This, and differences in art and cultural themes, set manga apart from comic books.
Original Graphic Novels: Stories that are published in a book format, without having been serialized beforehand.
Comic Strips: Very short stories serialized in newspapers, and then republished in book format. Some do not consider comic strips to be graphic novels, due to the large difference in length (Comic strips are usually a few panels long, which does not fill even one page of a comic book or manga).
After discussing what graphic novels are, I discussed how they can be used for integrated reader's advisory. Graphic novels are a mix of visual and print media, so they can be used to recommend books and movies, and vice versa. People who enjoy superhero movies will likely enjoy superhero comics, and people who enjoy romance graphic novels may enjoy romance novels. I also discussed using programs in the library to promote graphic novels, such as superhero movie nights, anime and manga clubs, and Free Comic Book Day.
I also discussed graphic novels in my special topic, which I did on teen crossovers.
ReplyDeleteGraphic novels had become so popular among teens and adults alike. My boys actually love anime. Interestingly much of the anime that they can gain access to is sexually explicit. Still as a parent this presents a problem but I know that because of its popularity I will not keep it out of their hands. As a librarian I want to be a part of their choices and understand what they are interested in. Banning them from it will only make them want to see and read more.
Personally I loved The Walking Dead and I love to read about the reviews and information on the graphic novels. There is so much available to readers in the area of graphic novels. I think it is important to get good reviews and information out there. Especially for parents like me that have teens that want to move on to the next series. I have almost lost track!!
These novels are trendy and up-to-date. I even included some information about incorporating them in the classrooms.
Love this topic!!
Jennie
I also discussed graphic novels in my special topic, which I did on teen crossovers.
ReplyDeleteGraphic novels had become so popular among teens and adults alike. My boys actually love anime. Interestingly much of the anime that they can gain access to is sexually explicit. Still as a parent this presents a problem but I know that because of its popularity I will not keep it out of their hands. As a librarian I want to be a part of their choices and understand what they are interested in. Banning them from it will only make them want to see and read more.
Personally I loved The Walking Dead and I love to read about the reviews and information on the graphic novels. There is so much available to readers in the area of graphic novels. I think it is important to get good reviews and information out there. Especially for parents like me that have teens that want to move on to the next series. I have almost lost track!!
These novels are trendy and up-to-date. I even included some information about incorporating them in the classrooms.
Love this topic!!
Jennie