The newest, most vibrant category to emerge in the volatile world of book publishing is the Children’s Graphic Novel. That’s a distinction that may be lost on some folks who may still believe that graphic novels, which are essentially comics printed in book form, are all for children. Fortunately most people are more enlightened these days and realize that graphic novels are, in fact, written for just as many audiences and types of readers as traditional books.
The confusion arises because “graphic novel” has been used to describe just about every type of book featuring comics, other than manga (Japanes comics). Unlike other sections of the bookstore, such as “Mystery,” “Science Fiction,” or “Romance,” “Graphic Novels” is not the name of a genre, but a category. Like “Audio Books,” which can also encompass a multitude of genres, “Graphic Novels” are not just one type of book. In other words, until recently every type of graphic novel has simply been stacked together in one section regardless of content.
The good news is that the Children’s Graphic Novel is the first genre to break free from the generic Graphic Novel section. A wise move on many levels, especially because bookstores need to be sensitive to customers needs-particularly parents who don’t wish to inadvertently purchase inappropriate material for their kids.
So as a new section is carved out of the always-crowded bookstore shelves, astute publishers recognize the need for material to fill this new demand. And that’s when ambitious writers start sniffing around to see if they can get in on this new craze. But what do they really need to know if they hope to actually sell a Children’s Graphic Novel to a publisher? Let’s take a look at, and answer, some of the most commonly asked questions…
1) Do I need to be an artist?
No, but it doesn’t hurt if you are, and your proposal should include either the entire finished Children’s Graphic Novel or a sizeable sample. If you’re not an artist, then you will need to find one. Comics are obviously a visual medium, so even if you’re not an artist, it’s important to think visually. If you want to keep a kid’s attention throughout your Children’s Graphic Novel, it’s important to keep the graphics as compelling and as exciting as your script. If either the story or the artwork appears boring, why would any kid want to read your graphic novel? For the best guidance check out Will Eisner’s Comics and Sequential Art, Will Eisner’s Graphic Storytelling and Visual Narrative, and ScottMcCloud’s Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art.
2) How do I find a Children’s Graphic Novel artist?
There are many ways. One is by attending comicbook conventions, especially those in large cities that feature portfolio reviews. Many professional or would-be comicbook artists attend these conventions hoping to find work from attending comicbook editors. Simply introduce yourself to these artists, explain that you’re hoping to find an artist to work with to propose a Children’s Graphic Novel. Don’t feel obligated to work with the first artist who is willing to work with you. It may be best to suggest that you’re looking for the right artist for your project, and that you’ll need to review the work of several artists to find the one that’s right. Another way to find an artist is by reviewing the samples posted on deviantart.com
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