Comic books have not always been considered educational materials. In the 50’s and 60’s teachers, librarians, and parents strived to keep comic books out of the hands of children. This was due to a common fear that comic books caused violence and other undesirable actions. Fortunately, opinions about comic books and graphic novels have changed over the years, and now children are encouraged to read them for leisure and educational purposes. Despite the negativity comic books have endured, their popularity amongst a wide range of ages has never changed. The display, “Graphic Novels and Comic Books in the Classroom” is a mix of educational resources about how to incorporate them while teaching, and titles that can be recommended to students or even enjoyed by teachers!
If you are considering including graphic novels for your high school class this coming school year, Getting Graphic! describes how to use this format to promote literacy. Information about including graphic novels in younger classes can be found in Adventures in Graphica. This title focuses on using graphic novels as a way to teach comprehension.
The graphic novel Maus is considered one of the greatest graphic novels of all time. The story is drawn using mice and cats to depict a true story about the Holocaust in a simple, yet deeply powerful way. Another well known graphic novel, Bone, is a fun adventure series that children will keep coming back for more! Recently, classic stories and popular books have also been adapted into graphic novels. If you loved the book The Kite Runner, be sure to try the graphic novel adaptation! Many classic stories are also in comic book form such as, Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood! Graphic novels and comic books can be enjoyed by any age group with many different choices!
Everything in the book display cabinet can be borrowed. Please enquire at the Service Desk on the ground floor of the Library.