Jan Fischer
Edge Columnist
Comic books and graphic novels don’t appeal to everyone. Some people don’t take comics as seriously as other books, and most don’t realize the benefits of reading these visual masterpieces. So what are the benefits of reading comics?
A lot of people don’t know how to get through the time until the next “Avengers” movie. In this case, superhero comics are just the thing. Here, the famous heroes experience new adventures every month, and fans no longer have to wait what feels like decades for the next superhero action.
Many people, especially young readers who have difficulty improving their reading abilities, can profit from the visual format of comics and graphic novels. With intense graphics and a strong focus on plot and characters, comics can be much more engaging than other literary media such as novels or short stories.
But comics are more than stories about people with superpowers in funny suits. Whether it’s horror, fantasy, or science fiction, comics offer just as many different genres as any other medium. Topics can also be closer to reality, or material based historical events and even autobiographical material, which can help people get information that they might otherwise find boring. Comics can also contribute to building the reading abilities needed to comprehend more difficult texts.
Moreover, many series such as The Walking Dead, Preacher or Lucifer are based on comics. So why not take a look at the original? It is really surprising, how many popular series differ from the original.
With this huge selection, there is of course something for the more demanding tastes. Some comics have already been reviewed in major newspapers.
Comics can be pretty crazy, but in a positive way. After all, it’s ideas like these that show the creative potential of human beings and that no idea has to be considered too far-fetched. If you’re open to bizarre humour and a little creative chaos, then comics are definitely for you.
Overall, Comic books and graphic novels are gateways to success in literacy, at any level of ability.
List of popular ‘based on comics’ movies and TV series:
• Man in Black
• The Walking Dead
• Lucifer
• Preacher
• Avengers
• Iron Man
• Spider-Man
• Wonder Woman
• The Dark Knight