Looking for an interesting read? How about trying something different from the traditional book? Graphic novels have come a long way from being niche publications to a format in their own right. Crossing the divide between picture art and compelling story-telling, these illustrated books offer unique story experiences. They have revolutionised the form of storytelling, captivating diverse readers while exploring complex themes and concepts.
What is a Graphic Novel?
This type of novels is essentially a type of books that tell stories through a combination of words and sequential art; think of them as sophisticated comic books. Unlike traditional comics that come in short issues, however, the alternative graphic novel with beautiful artwork is typically longer, with self-contained stories with complex plots and developed characters. It can cover any genre imaginable: memoir, fantasy, science fiction, historical drama, or even non-fiction.
The marriage of visual art and text creates a unique storytelling medium that offers readers a different experience than traditional books. While comic books have existed for decades, graphic storytelling emerged in the 1970s. The format gained mainstream recognition in the 80s with ground-breaking works like Art Spiegelman’s “Maus”, which won a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation. Over the years, it’s been gaining more popularity, especially since 2019 so you can come across a vast array of options to choose from.
Why Do Young Readers Get So Hooked on Them?
Today’s young readers grow up in a highly visual world. From smartphones to social media, working with visual input is something that comes to be expected in their lives, making the format quite compatible with the reading patterns of these audiences. Artists use panel layouts, colour palettes, and different drawing styles to create the atmosphere and control pacing.
The combination of text and images provides clues that make comprehension easier, conveying information that could otherwise require several written pages. This visual approach is also a great way to show feelings and experiences that just can’t be put into words. The characters’ facial expressions can communicate complex feelings, creating connections with young readers navigating their own world of emotional landscapes.
The Australian Boom
What started as a rumble is now a wave. And just like the rest of the world, Australia has been riding this wave for the past few years, seeing a remarkable surge in the format’s popularity. Local bookshops are stocking more and more titles, and libraries across the country have reported a massive hike in these volumes’ borrowing figures. Australian creators are also making their mark – homegrown talents like Shaun Tan with ‘The Arrival’ and Nicki Greenberg are carving their names as internationally recognised creators.
School libraries have been frontrunners in this new trend, with teachers recognising the value of the graphic novel as captivating reading material. Today, many schools in Australia have incorporated them as educational resource, believing that they would offer confidence to the reluctant reader as well as challenge advanced students with complex stories and themes.
Gateway to Greater Reading Adventures
For many years, comics and graphic novels were unfairly trivialised as “not real reading” or “just for kids.” That perception has completely changed. These novels tackle complex topics, contemporary conflicts, crises of identity and issues of social justice with stunning nuance. Many award-winning works demonstrate the potential for profound storytelling.
One of the most exciting aspects of these novels is their potential for becoming the first step into greater reading adventures. Many parents report that their previously reluctant readers started growing their interest in reading after their first graphic novel. With confidence built from completing these books, children often feel empowered to go on and discover other formats and genres.
The format also excels at broadening access to difficult issues. Historical events, scientific concepts and even literary classics have found their way into this visual novel form, allowing readers to engage with challenging material without abandoning depth.
Why Should You Explore This Format?
If you haven’t explored these novels yet, you’ve definitely missed one entire world of incredibly interesting stories. It offers something for everyone, regardless of age and interest. Whether you love memoirs and fantasies or appreciate historical works, this is a chance to discover something completely new. It’s a fun way to introduce young readers to incredible stories and a refreshing change of pace for avid readers of traditional format. You will find that the visual elements engage totally different portions of the brain, and the whole experience feels both relaxing and stimulating.
Where to Start Your Journey?
Australian bookstores and libraries have made access to this medium very easy. Most libraries have a great section dedicated to graphic novels, mangas and comics, together with staff who can recommend titles based on your tastes. Local comic book stores offer even more specialised advice and usually host events that allow you to meet with creators and other fans.
Not quite sure where to start? Consider asking for recommendations based on other books, movies, or TV shows that you enjoy. The market of graphic novels in Australia is huge and varied, and there is definitely something just waiting to snag your imagination with words and pictures.
So, next time you are looking for something to read, why not pick up one of these illustrated books? Your brain is going to thank you for this visual holiday, and you may just discover your new favourite way of seeing stories.
