What is a graphic novel?
Eric Reynolds reflected on the problems inherent in using the term graphic novel [1]. Despite suggestions of more appropriate terms, it is firmly fixed in library and publishing jargon. Australian graphic novelist Eddie Campbell agrees that “confusion reigns” in reaching a definition. Creators, publishers, readers or collectors of graphic novels, define the term differently. One possibility Eddie Campbell suggests is:
A bound book of comics either in soft or hardcover. [2]
This is similar to librarian Steve Raiteri’s definition:
Any trade paperback or hardcover book consisting of work in comic-book form. [3]
In my thesis I am using Steve Raiteri’s definition.
Graphic novels may be book-length stories, collections of stories or (despite the oxymoron) works of non-fiction [4]. This does not include collections of newspaper strips such as Garfield or Peanuts [5]. Graphic novels are a format and thus include many different genres [6].
There are graphic novels written and drawn for all age groups, but in my research I’m concentrating on graphic novels for teenagers.
References
- Reynolds, Eric (2005) “Growing pains” In Heller & Dooley (Eds) The education of a comics artist: Visual narrative in cartoons, graphic novels, and beyond New York: Allworth Press, p.174.
- Campbell, Eddie (2007) “What is a graphic novel?” World Literature Today, vol.81, no.2, p.13.
- Raiteri, Steve (2002) “Graphic novels” Library Journal, vol.127, no.14, p.148.
- Arnold, Andrew (2007) “Comix poetics” World Literature Today, vol.81, no.2, p.12; Weiner, S. (2002). “Beyond superheroes: Comics get serious” Library Journal, vol.127, no.2, p.55.
- Hatfield, Charles (2005) Alternative comics: An emerging literature Jackson: University Press of Mississippi, p.4.
- Kan, Kat (2003) “Getting graphic at the school library” Library Media Connection, vol.21, no.7, p.15.
