Comics, Graphic Novels, and Manga

January 1, 2018

Gr 7 Up-This overview of graphic novels covers topics such as how to read and create comics as well as appreciable aspects of several genres and purposes to which comics have been used. Bosner has a friendly tone, and his discussions of specific titles are positive and detailed. There are a few caveats, however. It's hard to ascertain the intended audience, as the packaging and text won't entice teen comics and manga enthusiasts, and there's little in the way of readers' advisory. While the diagrams are clear, reproduced black-and-white graphic novel excerpts vary in quality. Though other books in the series have addressed teenagers' points of view on topics such as health issues, adoption, apprenticeships, and social networking, this volume runs a bit short on the "It Happened to Me" perspective (though brief quotes from older teens are interspersed throughout). There are also pull quotes from librarians and comics scholars and a couple of engaging interviews, including one with Gene Luen Yang. VERDICT For large collections. Students will get more out of this book by consulting specific chapters rather than by reading cover to cover.-Francisca Goldsmith, Library Ronin, Worcester, MA

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