Are you one of those who thinks people who love reading comics are boring? Well, there are many benefits of reading comics. The outdated image of a geeky teenager solely interested in comics and science has changed. Today, people acknowledge that excelling in science isn’t a stigma, and comics appeal to everyone. However, not everyone grasps the value of diving into these visually engaging stories. Nevertheless, there are numerous benefits of reading graphic comics. Read ahead to find out more.
1. Comic Books Help People Get Started with Reading Books
The visual format of comic books and graphic novels offers substantial benefits, particularly for young readers striving to enhance their reading skills. Engaging with intense visuals and focusing on intricate plotlines and characters, comic books often prove to be more captivating compared to conventional literary forms like novels or short stories.
Moreover, comic books play a pivotal role in fostering the development of essential reading skills needed to comprehend more complex texts. As individuals immerse themselves in these visual narratives, they acquire the ability to process information in a distinct manner, a subject we’ll delve into further in the upcoming section.
2. Comic Books Help Us Think Differently
When you read a comic book, you’re using different ways to understand the story. It’s not just about looking at pictures; you also combine what you see, how things are placed, and the words to make sense of the whole story. Even though comics seem like watching TV or playing games, reading them actually requires your brain to do more complex stuff. While we’re still learning about how comics affect the brain, it’s clear they’re more than just pictures; they’re a way of thinking and understanding stories in a cool, different way.
3. Illustrated Stories May Be Good for Your Brain
Undoubtedly, you’ve heard about the benefits of reading. You probably grew up being encouraged to read more to improve your reading skills. Yet, if you lack the initial interest in becoming a proficient reader, this advice might not motivate you to read more. However, consider this What if online reading comics offered advantages beyond enhancing reading ability alone?
4. Comic Books Are More than Just Superhero Stories
Alright, perhaps superheroes aren’t your thing, and that’s completely okay. But did you know that comic books and graphic novels cover a vast array of topics beyond evil villains and hazardous chemicals? From the Scott Pilgrim series to The Walking Dead, The Sandman, and a multitude of others, there’s a rich variety of comics books available.
6 Best Comics of All Time You Can Read
- Watchmen, by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons
- Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, by Frank Miller
- Sandman, by Neil Gaiman
- Saga by Brian K Vaughan
- Archies
- Manga
Check out these platforms where you can get these comics.
Tips On Reading Comics
1. Pick A Style You Like
Start by considering the style you prefer in comics. Comics come in various styles, reflecting the diversity of their creators. While each is unique, certain archetypes stand out as more popular. Today, you’ll encounter several main categories in comic books.
2. Do A Little Research
Once you’ve chosen a series to read, researching its context and history becomes beneficial. This understanding significantly enhances your grasp of the storyline and characters.
Utilize online resources: Various online platforms cater to new comic book readers. Websites like Wikipedia, official creator or publisher sites, and fan guides (like this one!) offer a wealth of information, ranging from essential facts to intricate details.
Explore guidebooks and encyclopedias: Numerous guides detailing popular graphic novels book characters provide comprehensive insights into crucial stories. Here are a few recommendations to kickstart your exploration:
- Comics Since 1945
- The DC Comics Encyclopedia
- Marvel Encyclopedia
Through this research, your focus should be on discovering:
- Characters that captivate your interest
- Stories serve as ideal entry points
3. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
If you’re uncertain where to begin, seek assistance from fellow comic book enthusiasts or the staff at your local comic book shop Other comic book fans and local comic shop staff are often eager to aid new readers in grasping the complexities of a series. Long-time fans possess valuable insights and can provide optimal recommendations for starting your reading journey.
4. Find Your Jumping On Point
As you begin a long-running comic book series, tackling all the previous issues might seem overwhelming. Instead, aim to discover a “jumping-on point”—an issue or story tailored to ease new readers into the series.
Often, when a new creative team takes over, the book may reboot its numbering. Despite lingering continuity from the prior run, a new #1 (or “volume 1” in a collected edition) can be an excellent entry point.
Consider seeking standalone issues, limited series, or graphic novels as another starting option. These stories are independent and might not directly connect to the larger continuity, but they serve as introductions to the characters and their world.
Exploring classics like Watchmen, Fun Home, Maus, The Dark Knight Returns, or other iconic works can also be an excellent way to start if they catch your interest.
