SERIES MADE SIMPLE

What Is a Graphic Novel?

by Charlotte GUILLAIN
9781410968272. ea vol: 32p. (Connect with Text). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Heinemann-Raintree. 2015. lib. ed. $29.99.
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Gr 3–5—Introducing students to major literary forms, subgenres, and styles, this set also attempts to convey the excitement of reading. Unfortunately, it falls flat for lack of specificity. There are no examples to support statements such as "Some stories have a surprising twist to keep readers on their toes!" The authors featured are somewhat predictable, like J.K. Rowling, and aren't well integrated into the discussion. The design is lackluster as well.
VERDICT Overly general, these books won't connect with readers.
Two-page chapters introduce graphic novels to those unfamiliar with the text type, briefly discuss their relationship to comic books, and highlight various styles (e.g., ligne claire, comic book–style, manga). "Write your own" boxes provide useful craft tips, and images from graphic novels provide meaningful examples throughout. Graphic novel–writing activities are appended. Reading list. Glos., ind.
Reviewed by Jess deCourcy Hinds , Apr 01, 2015

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