“Is it a graphic novel or comic?”
When readers see the book full of animation, it is quite an obvious question. Graphic novels and comic books are not synonyms of each other. So, instead of mixing these terms, you should focus on learning the difference. Due to it, you will get an idea of what you want.
In terms of illustration, storytelling, and format, there is an immense difference between graphic novels and comic books. With this knowledge, you will come to know which one is perfect for you: Graphic novels or Comic Books. Are you also one of those who get confused between these two? If yes, so, let us focus on knowing how these two are different from each other.
What is a graphic novel?
By reading its name, you will get the idea that this novel illustrates the story through illustration. This novel consists of three phases: starting, middle, and end.
It provides the unique kind of resolution that readers expect from the novel. This resolution makes graphic novels substantive as compared to comic books.
What are the different characteristics of graphic novels?
Graphic novels consist of similar characteristics to traditional stories. Here is the list of different elements:
- Crystal clear beginning, middle segment, and end.
- Character development consists of personal journeys
- Thematic Messaging
- Accurate dialogue, including the narration
The graphic novel utilizes the images for storytelling narration boxes for elaborating the story.
5 best graphic novels that you must consider
There are below-mentioned graphic novels that you should read for enhancing your knowledge:
- Maus by the Art Spiegelman
- Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons
- Ghost World and Ice Haven by Daniel Clowes
- 100 bullets by Brian Azzarello and Eduardo Risso
What is a comic book?
A comic book is categorized as an excerpt from the larger serialized narrative explained by the illustration. Some of the most prominent comic book publishers are Archie Comics, DC Comics, and Marvel Comics.
These publishers and other firms issued various books. Additionally, you will also observe the sequential art in the magazines or the newspaper column. Here is the list of notable comic books:
- Superman
- The Amazing Spider-Man
- Wonder Woman
- Batman
- Archie
- The X-men
- The Sandman, and many more
You can invest your quality of time in reading these books and gain knowledge from their stories. Additionally, you can also download the comics on RARBG.
With the help of the information mentioned earlier, you get a little bit of an idea about the list of differences between graphic novels and comic books.
Difference between the Graphic Novel and Comic Books:
By reading the below-mentioned information, you will get a crystal-clear idea about the differences.
- Interpretation
Graphic Novels- The story was published as a book but represented in the comic strip format.
Comic- This magazine consists of a sequence of comic strips.
- Sizes
Graphic novels come in any size, while the standard size of comic books is 6.5″ x 10″. Additionally, graphic novels are extended, and comics are shorter. So, if you want to enjoy short stories, you can go for the comic option.
- Characters
Both these consist of complex characters and have detailed backstories. Along with backstories, inner conflicts are also mentioned in the graphic novel and comics.
- Frequency
Comic books are produced with a higher frequency as compared to graphic novels. Comics have accurate launching schedules that are arrived on a weekly or monthly basis.
- Popularity
Perception varies from person to person. Both are equally popular and have great stories. So, it relies upon what you want. For the kids, comics are better. There are different categories of comics as per the age of kids. In short, you have plenty of options when it comes to comic books.
You have a separate list if you want the comic for the above 8-year-old kid. On the other hand, you will get various options for kids of age more than 4. As a result, you can consider multiple options as per your kids’ preferences to get plenty of benefits.
Aside from it, comics are popular in different countries as the origin of Anime and Manga is from Japan, but these are prominent across various other countries. Both of these are popular and have a special place in an individual’s life in terms of popularity.
Now you get an idea about how graphic novels are different from comic books. So, whenever you want to read books, you should choose between graphic novels and comic books.
There are different ways to select the best comic books; you can check their art, theme, popularity, etc.
Final Verdicts
So, now you can easily buy either graphic novels or comic books without getting confused at the book shop. If you want a more visual appearance, you should opt for a graphic novel; otherwise, you can select comic books.
