1. Features of a Graphic Novel

2. Definition of Graphic Novel
Combines elements of narrative, speech, illustrations and images
Longer than a comic book
Higher quality than a comic book
Bound as real book rather than staples as with comic

3. Panels
A panel is a box containing pictures, showing what is happening in the story
Represents a moment in time; a single action
Panels are arranged left to right, top to bottom

4. Panel positions
Full page panels are used for effect – artist can show greater detail of a scene, can be used for emphasis (can even be a two page panel)
Overlapping panels – depict almost simultaneous events in the storyline
Floating panels – smaller panels placed over larger panels; usually conveys events happening simultaneously over the same time period in two different locations

5. Gutter
The space between panels

6. Splash page
Opening page of a graphic novel; contains title, subtitles, and credits for writers and artists

7. Speech Bubble/ Balloon
Oval in shape; contains dialogue of characters, speech balloon often has squiggly shape attached pointing to the speaker

8. Thought Bubble
Silent thoughts of characters contained in these fluffy clouds with scalloped edges, bubbles lead to thinker

9. Letters and Documents
Used to move the story along – as the character reads the information, so do we

10. Caption Box
Rectangular box at top or bottom of panel – is a narrative aid that helps reader to understand setting shifts and transition between panels

11. Lighting
Plays a crucial role in creating mood and feeling within the panel
Darkness = mysterious, foreboding
Brightness = happy, positive

12. Sound
Shown through words (onomatopoeia) and how they are drawn (vibrating word shows alarm clock)

13. Text Features Bold: boldness or strength
Italics: projects intensity of conversation
Smaller print size: conveys a whisper
Different fonts: dialects and different languages

14. The End