Graphic Novel Adaptations
Whether you’re searching for a movie or TV show on Netflix or perusing the local cinema brochures, odds are that you have seen the abundance of comic to screen adaptations that are everywhere.
*Sigh* “Comic books?”, you say. I can hear your eyes rolling from here. But I have some news for you – graphic novels are back, and in a BIG way!
Now, I’m not here to talk about superheroes and radioactive goo. No, I’m here to tell you about new ways graphic novels are taking over the world and the reasons why you should pick one up the next time you’re in one of our branches.
- They can help engage reluctant readers.
This one is obvious, but it comes down to the flow of the book. Graphic novels don’t read in the same linear format as their novel counterparts. Instead, they rely heavily on the images to tell a lot of the story. When combined with the storyline, the visual clues will help develop the reader’s comprehension of the story, and it’s fun!
- They can help develop visual literacy.
Again, with the images. The text and images together can help readers interpret everyday images and develop a deeper understanding of visual media. With a lot of the images being expressive and brightly coloured, there is a lot of the story told in the images.
- They can help build vocabulary.
The same way they can help develop visual literacy; they can help build vocabulary. With graphic novels text and imagery are side-by-side, helping each other to tell the story. Most graphic novels have complex storylines that are balanced with captivating visuals to aid in understanding.
Still not convinced?
Too grown up for Graphic Novels?
What if I told you that classic novels and fan-favourite books have now been adapted to graphic novels? That’s right!
Fancy some Edgar Allen Poe? We got you here…
Love a Sherlockian mystery? Take a look here …
Shakespeare? Dune? The Secret Garden series?! Graphic novel adaptations are here to stay, and we love them!
I’m going to let you in on a little secret….
I wrote this blog because I may have fangirled a little too hard when I discovered a graphic novel adaptation of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen on Hoopla. Hoopla has no sympathy for my poor nerves! Give it a read here.
There are so many more titles available in our branches and on our digital reading platforms, Borrowbox and Hoopla. Give them a read today!
Resources
Barbee, Melissa. Comic Books as Models for Literacy Instruction. International Literacy Association. 2015.
Morrison, Leslie. The Research Behind Graphic Novels and Young Learners. Northwestern CTD. 2017
Krashen, Prof Stephen et al. Ka-Pow! Unleashing the Superpowers – Engaging Reluctant Readers with Comics and Graphic Novels. Bibliotheca. 2023.