Graphic novels don’t have it easy. They are stereotyped as unserious books, distracting children from schoolwork and eating up weekly allowances. Even the term, a more distinguished alterego of “comic books,” has caused controversy between some aficionados. But whatever synonym you prefer, these books are resurging in popularity and proving to be valuable across generations.
Politics and Prose realized this (“We used to have one shelf for comic books, now we have three whole bookcases,” bookstore assistant manager Kerri Poore tells DCist) and will be holding an event on Thursday, April 25 at 7 p.m. to discuss the topic. Their “Growing Up With Graphics” panel will feature:
>> Nathan Hale, who wrote and illustrated Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales, based on the adventures of his historical namesake. The first Nathan Hale was America’s first spy during the Revolutionary War, who before being hung by the British said, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”
>> Eleanor Davis, a cartoonist for adolescents and adults and author/illustrator of Stinky, a children’s comic book that won the Dr. Seuss award.
>> Andrés Vera Martínez illustrates graphic novels for adults, including Little White Duck: A Childhood in China, written with his wife.
>> Mark Siegel, editorial director of graphic novel publishing company First Second, and author of the best-selling Sailor Twain, or the Mermaid in the Hudson.
This prominent group reaches diverse audiences and age groups with their work. Michael Cavna, of the Washington Post‘s “Comic Riffs” blog, will moderate. The event is only open to those aged 15 and up to make sure conversation stays mature.
The panelists will address the significance of graphic novels for both children and adults. Though some parents and teachers may be wary, at an earlier age they do “help children learn to read,” says Poore. But adolescents and adults can get a lot out of the books as well. They can be as entertaining as an award-winning movie — Ghost World and V for Vendetta originated as graphic novels — and others like Persepolis and Cancer Vixen serve to address serious topics in an approachable, lighter-hearted format. And the artwork is a marvel in itself: just as we appreciate the imagery in a movie or descriptive book, the cartoons help tell stories in surprisingly vivid ways.
In addition to the panelists’ books, art by Davis and Martínez will be available for purchase at the event. Following the panel, Politics and Prose will be holding a small reception across the street at Terasol at 9 p.m. All panelists will be attending and registration is limited, but open to anyone who would like to meet the authors personally and continue the discussion. Tickets are $30, which includes hors d’oeuvres and one drink. Call Politics and Prose at 202-364-1919 to sign up.
