If you’re new to the graphic novel scene, you might not think you need to research different types of graphic novels before you decide which one is right for you. They’re basically just picture books, right? How complex can graphic novel genres actually be?
Well, you might be surprised to learn that graphic novels are every bit as multi-faceted and varied as other literary formats. Graphic novels have spiked in popularity in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. They combine intricate storytelling with gorgeous illustrations for a truly unmatched experience. Read on to learn the basics of the format and, most importantly, how to choose from the vast array of graphic novel options.
What Are Graphic Novels?
Put simply, graphic novels are books that use both comics and text to tell a story. That story can be about anything, in any genre, including true crime, sci-fi, fantasy, nonfiction, and more. The possibilities are endless, which is partly what makes the format so exciting.
While comic books and graphic novels are often confused, the two have distinct identifying features. Graphic novels are typically longer than comic books and can usually be read alone, although one graphic novel may be part of a larger series. By contrast, comic books are often published as serials and periodicals, and they usually must be read in order. Consequently, graphic novels are slightly more accessible for newbies.
Another common misconception about graphic novels is that they are only for kids. While it is true that some of the most popular graphic novels, such as the best-selling Dog Man series, are aimed at children, there are plenty of graphic novels with more adult themes and content. And hey, who’s to say that adults can’t enjoy reading about a crime-fighting super-dog?
The Different Types Of Graphic Novels
Just like other forms of literature, graphic novels vary in genre, length, theme, and art style. Some graphic novels deal with heavy real-life stories, such as The Complete Maus, a riveting and provocative book that explores the Jewish experience of the Holocaust while depicting the Jewish people as mice and the Nazis as cats. However, many graphic novels are more light-hearted and comedic, such as Smile, a YA book that covers the many stresses of middle school, including braces, boys, and earthquakes.
Graphic novels are also a popular format for superhero stories, in part because they allow authors to make gripping action scenes visual. One of the best-known examples of this type of graphic novel is Watchmen, which has since become a film and an award-winning HBO series. Watchmen dissects what it means to be a superhero by examining an alternate reality where superheroes are commonplace, but plagued by mortal failings. It’s a fascinating and groundbreaking read that flipped the superhero genre on its head and remains one of the most widely-beloved graphic novels ever created.
If you’re a fan of comic books, the illustrations of many graphic novels, such as Watchmen, may look familiar, but part of what makes the format so exciting is that artists are constantly exploring new mediums and styles. Take The Golden Age, a medieval-era book rife with royalty and revolution. The Golden Age uses vivid, bold colors and precise detail to create an art style that feels fresh and original. It is one of the many examples of artists stepping outside the traditional expectations of what a graphic novel looks like.Buy The Golden Age On Amazon
How To Find The Right Graphic Novel For You
Graphic novels have historically struggled to achieve the respect they deserve, perhaps because many people view them as separate from ‘real’ literature. In truth, the rules for choosing graphic novels are just like the rules for any other type of book: it’s best to follow your interests. If you like romance, there are plenty of graphic novels to choose from, such as the Fence series, about a budding relationship between fencing teammates. If you like comedy, consider the raunchy The High Soft Lisp, which details the sexual misadventures of a Z-list film star. Whatever your tastes, you’ll likely find a graphic novel that caters to them, although it’s also a good idea to expand past your comfort zone.
The other element to consider when picking a graphic novel is the art style. If you don’t like traditional comic books, you may be turned off by some of the options. Part of the joy of reading a graphic novel is lingering in awe over the gorgeous illustrations, so make sure to choose something that you love viewing.
Ultimately, graphic novels are a relatively welcoming format that just about anybody can enjoy, and with their increase in popularity, we may even be seeing more and more of them come to the big screen. Happy reading!