What Is a Graphic Novel? Definition & Standard Formats
Graphic novels are books depicted using comics. The “novel” part of “graphic novel” refers to the fact that they are a storytelling medium. Graphic novels can be fiction or nonfiction. As well, they usually have an overarching theme. Sometimes, they are broken up into chapters or parts. They are typically sold as printed books, but digital versions are often available as well.
The “graphic” part of “graphic novel” refers to the illustration and design aspects that go into these books. Additionally, graphic novels can be considered sequential art. Meaning, they typically use a series of illustrations to tell a story. For example, graphic novels usually use a combination of panels of art and speech bubbles to convey a story. However, sometimes they use only pictures and no words.
What Is a Graphic Novel Vs Comic Vs Webcomic?
There are so many terms that are similar to “graphic novel.” So let us go over how graphic novels, comics, and webcomics differ. The line is a little bit blurry with how these terms differ because they overlap quite a bit. That is, a particular work can fall into multiple categories. For instance, my comic Derailed, is a paperback graphic novel, a webcomic on my website, and a Webtoon.
Another thing to note, is that people often use the terms, “graphic novel,” “comic,” and “webcomic” interchangeably. Not to mention, incorrect use terms of these terms is common. This is because the general layman usually does not know the nuances between the terms.
So continue reading to learn details on what sets apart graphic novels, comics, and webcomics.
What Is a Graphic Novel?
Firstly, let us go over what sets apart graphic novels. (Of course, these are all just generalities.) Graphic novels are sometimes seen as a bit higher end. For instance, they often use high print quality and materials, like a hard cover or thicker paper. As well, they can have a more complex plot than shorter comics. Additionally, graphic novels often taken on a more serious tone. Thusly, they often aim for a more mature audience, as opposed to children. Moreover, graphic novels often have a more complex art style, as opposed to a simpler newspaper strip style.
Another thing about graphic novels, is that they usually stand alone. For instance, they are usually not serialized. However, they do sometimes have a sequel or two. Furthermore, unlike some forms of media, graphic novels are usually intended for print.
What Is a Comic?
Next, let us discuss types of comics. The term, “comic books,” usually refers to comic floppies/issues or trade paperbacks. Thusly, comic books are usually intended for print. Additionally, comic books are often shorter, serialized issues, of around 24 pages each. They are often inexpensively staple bound or saddle stitched. Another way comic books save on print costs, is that they are often in black and white. As well, they are often on thinner paper to cut costs.
Comic strips are a subset of comics. People commonly think of these as the funny-pages in newspapers. New comic strips often come out weekly. As well, comic strips are often political. Comic strips can be either black and white or full color. Additionally, comic strips are also prevalent online. They make for great social media content, as they are easy to publish as stand alone images to Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, etc.
Manga are also a subset of comics. Manga are Japanese comics or graphic novels. Most commonly, they are in black and white, which helps save on print costs. As well, the speech bubbles usually read from right to left.
Comic anthologies are also a subset of comics. They are a collection of multiple shorter comics into a singular book.
What Is a Webcomic?
Finally, let us examine the term “webcomics.” Something that sets webcomics apart, is that they are for an online audience. Webcomics are often published weekly. And fans can usually get reminders of updates by following a webcomic’s email list, RSS feed, or social media. Some webcomics even have capabilities to send out mobile push notifications when they update. Additionally, webcomics often provide a way for fans to comment. Thusly, online communities often develop around popular webcomics.
Want to know where to find webcomics? Here are the best places to read and publish webcomics.
Webtoons are a subset of webcomics. People publish Webtoons through the app and website called, “Webtoon.” The company, Webtoon, offers comics in many languages, and it is popular in many countries around the globe. Webtoons are generally geared at mobile users. And so, they typically take on a scrolling format, which is more legible on small phone screens. You can read more information on what is a Webtoon and how to make a Webtoon.
What Genres Are Graphic Novels?
Graphic novels can be created in any genre. For instance, some popular genres of graphic novels are superhero, romance, fantasy, historical, horror, and sci-fi. As well, some broad categories of graphic novels include fiction, nonfiction, autobiographies, and manga.
On a side note, some people mistake graphic novels as cheap, silly, only for kids, or just doodles. But a lot of skill goes into crafting graphic novels. Additionally, they can be great entertainment for readers of all ages. As well, graphic novels are not “literature’s fun side-hustle” as Webtoon famously defamed them. Rather, graphic novels are definitely worthy to be under the umbrella that is literature.
What Is a Standard Length Graphic Novel?
There is no official page count for a book to be classified as a graphic novel. However, the majority of graphic novels range from 60 to 300 pages. As well, a popular page count for graphic novels is around 200 pages.
So yes, graphic novels can range in length. Nonetheless, they are usually long enough to tell a detailed plot. Additionally, they can be split into parts or chapters. Usually, the number of chapters is in the range of 5 to 20 chapters.
Oftentimes, people classify anthologies as graphic novels as well. Anthologies, are books that collect several shorter stories together. Often, short comics start as stand alone issues, and then, are later put together as an anthology. Accordingly, multiple short comics can join together into a longer length graphic novel.
What Is a Graphic Novel’s Standard Format?
What is a standard size format for graphic novels? Well, there is no official size for graphic novels. They can have any size or binding. And they can be soft or hardcover. However, in the US, 6.625 x 10.25 inches is a common print size for graphic novels/modern trade paperbacks.
Additionally, for graphic novels, 300dpi is usually the standard image resolution. The bleed size printers require is usually 1/8 or 1/4 of an inch. Also of note, graphic novels are often full color. However, they can be black and white, which helps save on printing costs.
Clearly, artists have infinite choices to make when it comes to comic formats. Do you want to make a comic, but cannot decide whether to use a graphic novel format or mobile format? Read about the pros and cons of comic formats.
Why Should You Read Graphic Novels?
There are countless reasons why everyone should read graphic novels. Below, I have split up some reasons into a few categories.
Firstly, you should read graphic novels for enjoyment! Reading graphic novels can be a form of stress relief or to help process emotions. As well, reading graphic novels is like a blessing to the eyes and soul. Many do not realize it, but creators often spend countless hours crafting every page of their graphic novels. So uplift your spirits, and behold the beauty that goes into creating graphic novels. As you can see, graphic novels are great for enjoyment. Not to mention, they make wonderful gifts!
A similar reason to read graphic novels is for entertainment. Graphic novels do not require charging or wifi. That makes them great to read on vacation or on a commute. As well, graphic novels are great for passing time, like on your break or while waiting for someone. Reading graphic novels makes a great hobby. Spending some downtime escaping to wonderful worlds with amazing characters clearly makes for great entertainment.
Another reason to read graphic novels is for self improvement. So read graphic novels if you want to improve your abilities as an illustrator or storyteller. Likewise, reading graphic novels is helpful if you want to learn how to make your own. Graphic novels are also a great way to garner a love for reading. Likewise, they can even be helpful for teaching kids how to read. Moreover, graphic novels can teach valuable lessons and expand our knowledge.
Knowing all these reasons to love graphic novels, continue reading to find some popular ones to check out!
What Are Some Popular Graphic Novels?
Below are some popular graphic novels. The first three are some of the most popular of all time and even won awards. The others are some newer, popular graphic novels that I think are definitely worth checking out.
- Maus – Art Spiegelman
- A Contract with God – Will Eisner
- Batman: The Dark Knight Returns – Frank Miller
- Space Boy
- Avatar: The Last Airbender – Team Avatar Treasury Box Set
- The Hobbit – An Illustrated Edition of the Classic
- The Lightning Thief: The Graphic Novel
- Primer
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Who Publishes Graphic Novels?
Graphic novel publishers include three types: print, digital, and indie. Popular print publishers include Darkhorse Comics, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Shueisha, Shogakukan, and Hakusensha. Additionally, popular digital publishers include Webtoon, Tapas, GlobalComix, Comixology, MangaPlus, Hiveworks, and SpiderForest. Furthermore, popular independent publishing options include selling at conventions or online. For example, by using Kickstarter, Indiegogo, Amazon KDP, Mixam Printers, or Print Ninja. So as you can see, there are a variety of graphic novel publishers.
Summary of What Is a Graphic Novel?
So, what is a graphic novel? It is basically a longer format comic book. Graphic novels come in a variety of genres, formats, and lengths. As well, there are all different kinds of themes and styles of graphic novels. Thusly, there is a graphic novel out there perfectly fitting for everyone.
What graphic novel will you read next?! Perhaps, my graphic novel, Derailed. You can read Derailed for free on my site, or snag a paperback copy to enjoy it more fully! Also, be sure to check out my latest graphic novel, Kindred Not.
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