We reviewed a couple of the graphic novels we had in house, and here is what we had to say on this art form.
Maus, by Art Spiegelman
I have to admit I was not very enthusiastic about reading this book. The whole comic book thing, you know…but after about 3 pages, I was hooked. The bittersweet tale is illustrated beautifully with a darkness that permeates every page. This story of a family’s survival (and not) of the Nazi terror regime is filled with emotions. Loyalty, love, fear and betrayal are all key elements that weave a story that will leave you wanting more. I can actually hear the old man’s voice in my head, the accent, the inflection…it resonates with me. It brings to life how these people lived and what they had to do to keep their families alive. A second struggle is also present: that of the father/son relationship. You will feel for the father, you will be angry with the son…I recommend that you read Maus. You will be glad you did.
READ MORE: The Graphic Novel - Modern Stories in Pictures
The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman
Volume 1, Days Gone Bye
Try reading The Walking Dead, and you might turn its pages so fast you’d think zombies were running after you. Gruesome killings and transformations make for a riveting reading for older teens/adults. While I’m generally not a fan of the horror genre, the graphic novel follows Rick Grimes, a policeman, who consistently acts heroically to help other human beings survive the zombie apocalypse. Reading The Walking Dead, you root for Rick, his family, and basic human kindness(not the zombie way). The characters are living in fear of becoming what they fear. Their experiences are heightened as any moment could be their last.