Benefits of Graphic Novels

   As an elementary school librarian, I am always trying to find the right book that will interest a student. I am a firm believer that children should read what they want. I like to know my students so that I may find the genre they especially like. In the past few years graphic novels have become extremely popular, yet I have had push back from a few parents and teachers as well. A couple of parents directed me not to allow their child to bring home a graphic novel, and a few teachers will not allow them in their classrooms. I believe some parents and teachers feel that 'graphic novel' is just a fancy term for comic books. Well, yes and no. They are so much more.