Escape with Comics & Graphic Novels
Escaping into another world can be cathartic, educational, exciting and rewarding. Comics and graphic novels are a colorful way to pursue that journey. (Quick note on comic books vs. graphic novels – Comic books tell a story over many issues. Graphic novels tend to be longer and more complex, often telling a complete story in one book.)
Think about that last tearjerker movie you watched and why it had such an impact on you. Would you have felt that same impact from the text alone? Images are powerful, and it’s been proven that graphic novels can significantly help understanding of complex issues while still being entertaining. What’s more, the images tell a story just as much as the words, which helps critical thinking and builds a strong connection between imagery and the subtext of a story.
Powerful Stories

Even established superheroes in DC or Marvel Comics have had powerful storylines throughout their years of evolution. Some newer ones include Sean Murphy’s hero/villain reversal of Batman and the Joker in Batman: White Knight and Ta-Nehisi Coate’s Black Panther sagas on the inner turmoil and difficulties of being Wakanda’s fierce leader. There are also some longstanding classics (I’m looking at you, Watchmen). Though we all admittedly judge some books by their covers, it’s worth looking at comics and graphic novels as a legitimate storytelling.
You've Seen the Movie, Now Read the Comic Book

Beyond Superheroes
If superheroes aren’t really your thing, there are still plenty of great comics and graphic novels for you. Along with the titles mentioned above, I’ve included a list of various recommendations below to get you started. Let me know your thoughts on some of the titles in this list. I would absolutely love to hear your essentials and favorites!