Graphic Novels in Libraries

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic by 1 person | Log in to rate

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Why is that Viking librarian snatching the graphic novel from the poor unsuspecting child?!

Graphic novels are valuable additions to any library - public, school, or your own home library.  This lens aims to provide reputable information about the validity of graphic novels as a literary media as well as recommended graphic novels for children.

Graphic novels in libraries 

Articles about graphic novels in library collections

More than words: Graphic novels in Kentucky's libraries
A 2004 article that discusses the benefits of graphic novels for all age ranges, by the author of well-reputed website "No Flying No Tights" (found below).
Comic books and graphic novels: Digital resources
A wonderful, wonderful ALA page (basically a lens!) that links to many fantastic resources.
Recommended graphic novels for public libraries
A list created by a public librarian in Ohio, this is an extensive and well-annotated list (although keep in mind that its latest revision was in 2003).
The Librarian's guide to Anime and Manga
Another great, extensive site specifically about the Anime and Manga styles of graphic novels.
Dealing with challenges to graphic novels
Work in a library that had graphic novel challenged? This American Library Association (ALA) guide may be of assistance.
Using graphic novels to attract reluctant readers
Brief article on using graphic novels to the advantage of teachers and librarians. Includes resource list.

Graphic Novels for young readers (ages 6-12) 

Selection guides I have used when choosing graphic novels for elementary-aged children

Graphic Novels for Younger Readers
This article is from the ALA publication Book Link.
Graphic Novels for (really) young readers
Great School Library Journal article supporting the use of graphic novels in libraries, accompanied by a fantastic list of recommended graphic novels.
Best graphic novels for elementary schools 2006-2007
Although this is a essentially a vendor's catalogue, it contains a wide variety of materials and many synopses that consist of more than a single sentence.

My favourite graphic novels for young readers (6-12) 

The Way Home & The Bittersweet Summer (Owly (Graphic Novels)) (v. 1)

I challenge you NOT to fall in love with Owly and Wormy. I'm serious - you'll have a tough time.

Amazon Price: $8.00 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

The Courageous Princess

Mabelrose is lovely, brave, honourable, and a great role model for young girls.

Amazon Price: (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Pinky & Stinky

The Moon People remind me of seaweed. They're fabulous!

Amazon Price: $11.25 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Bone Volume 1: Out From Boneville

Boys love this one!

Amazon Price: $7.91 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Bumperboy & The Loud, Loud Mountain

Bumperboy and Bumperdog go on another adventure.

Amazon Price: $8.95 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Graphic novels for teens (13+) 

Selection guides and articles I've used to make purchasing decisions.

Comic Books for Young Adults
Wonderful site! Not only argues why graphic novels should be in libraries, but provides lists of recommended materials (broken down into "younger teens", "older teens", etc.).
No flying, no tights
A site that has a seemingly inexhaustible number of graphic novel reviews.
25 Graphic Novels for middle schools
Another resource from a book vendor, but also very descriptive.
What Teens Want
Great article about finding appealing materials for teens (aka: graphic novels). Excellent core resource list.
YALSA 2007 Great graphic novels for teens
A lengthy list of graphic novels for teens, from the ALA's Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).

My favourite graphic novels for teens (13+) 

Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood

A great example of how a graphic novel can be educational.

Amazon Price: $9.32 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Graphic Classics: Edgar Allan Poe (3rd edition) (Graphic Classics (Graphic Novels))

These visual interpretations of Poe's stories are wonderful.

Amazon Price: $8.60 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Maus : A Survivor's Tale : My Father Bleeds History/Here My Troubles Began/Boxed

Effective visual allegory of the Holocaust.

Amazon Price: $19.73 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Mary Jane TPB

Mary Jane, of Spiderman fame, tells things from her point of view.

Amazon Price: (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow

Beautifully illustrated retelling of the famous horror story.

Amazon Price: $7.95 (as of 12/07/2009) Buy Now

Reader Feedback 

Any thoughts? Suggestions? Favourite graphic novels? Let us know!

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by becbart

I am a school librarian who works in two small schools which, together, cover all grade levels.

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