Library Corner column: Graphic Novels

Graphic novels have experienced a major increase in popularity in the past few years but still retain some stigma of being a “lower” form of literature than novels and picture books. Why is that?

Graphic novels are stories told with both words and illustrations with varying levels of sophistication. Ranging from wordless stories like “Owly” to perspectives on history and politics like “Persepolis,” graphic novels can cover almost any topic – yes, even superheroes – and range in length from 30 pages to well over 100.

Graphic novels also enhance instead of detracting from a child’s reading skills. Consider this: when reading a novel the reader needs to process the words on the page, but when reading a graphic novel the reader must process not only the words but the visual cues as well, from character facial expressions to indications of movement to sequence of events. When it comes to a student’s learning and comprehension, studies have shown that students who learn from books containing images have a deeper understanding of the topic at hand. This is one reason why I have been collecting graphic novels on historical topics at both the elementary and high school libraries.

Apart from their educational and literary benefits, graphic novels are also a lot of fun and entertaining to read. I can’t keep any graphic novels on the shelf at the elementary school, and often the moment a student returns one there is a student next in line to borrow it. If a book has a quality story and can make a child excited about reading, then I’m sold.

Below are links to further information about graphic novels and their place in libraries.




Some graphic novels in the PRHS library collection:

Library Corner - February Column

**I have started a column in the Parrsboro School Newsletter called (oh-so-originally) Library Corner. My aim is to provide parents with information and tools to support their child's literacy development. The first column is replicated below, along with resources and links that may not have been found in the Newsletter.


Library Corner

Did you know that many children experience a decline in reading habits in approximately grade 4 and/or grade 9? These are two major transition periods in literacy development: around grade 4 children progress from picture books and easy readers to novels, and around grade 9 they move from juvenile fiction into more substantial teen or adult fare.

During both transitions it is normal for children to fall back on reading material that is comfortable to them and easy for them to read, perhaps favourite picture books from their young childhood. This need not (and should not) be discouraged as it boosts their confidence to tackle newer, tougher books and materials.

You can help your child progress through these transitions by modeling and encouraging positive reading behaviours that include:

• Letting them see you read anything from magazines to novels, from the newspaper to cereal boxes.


• Reading aloud to your child should, in fact, continue until they are into their teens as it enforces the value of reading. You may want to consider borrowing audio books from the public library and listening to them with your child in the car or during the evening.


• Limiting computer and television use and designating time for reading also contributes to positive reading habits.


• Finally, ask your child questions about what he or she is reading and discuss what you are reading as well.
  

If you have any further questions, concerns, or want to know what kind of books your child might enjoy, please feel free to email me.


Suggested resources

An excellent resource is Paul Kropp’s book How to make your child a reader for life (2000) which is full of tips and suggestions for you and your child.
*Available for purchase from Chapters.
*Also available to borrow from the Cumberland Regional Library.

Another fantastic book is Jim Trelease's Read-Aloud Handbook (2006) which has lists of books for every age as well as many tips and advice about reading aloud to your child.
*Available for purchase from Chapters.
*I have requested that the Cumberland Regional Library purchase this book for their collection, so keep an eye out!


Further information

Publisher's Weekly has an excellent article about reading declines in older children.

A Statistics Canada study found links between a child's early reading skills and later literacy success.

Since teen boys' reading in particular tends to decline, this article seeks out why and what can be done to help. Although it is aimed at school librarians, it contains information (and a book list) that is helpful for parents as well.