x
Breaking News
More () »

Graphic novels engage reluctant readers and help build literacy skills

The Comic Geek-Out is planned for Saturday, July 27 at the Yankee Clipper Branch on Leonard.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Who’s your favorite comic book character?  

Superman? Wonder Woman? Spiderman? 

There’s a genre of comic books that’s gaining in popularity.  

They’re called graphic novels.  

Where comics provide short episodic segments, graphic novels, like traditional novels, offer more complex plots and characters. 

You read the text and then use the artwork to learn more about the story. They’re created for both children and adults.  

Grand Rapids Public Library West Side Branch Manager Oz Perez-Rios is planning the library’s annual Comic Geek-Out event this summer.  

It’s a celebration of this artsy and addictive genre.  

Literacy experts credit the books with motivating a whole generation of young readers.  

Oz says they’re fun to read but they’re more than that.  He says the genre appeals to many reluctant readers.  

It also helps build vocabulary and improves comprehension.  

The Comic Geek-Out is planned for Saturday, July 27 at the Yankee Clipper Branch on Leonard.

There’ll be hands-on activities, a cosplay contest, free books, a comic workshop, and other events for all ages.  

In the meantime, stop by your local library to check out the graphic novel section, and maybe get your kids to delve into a new reading experience. 

GRPL Comic Geek-Out

Saturday, July 27, 2024

Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE

Discover your inner hero at the library’s annual comic event. Celebrate the comic books you love and geek out on your favorite fandom. Join us for hands-on activities, snacks, free books, a comic workshop, and other fun events designed for all ages. Attendees can take home a free 2024 Comic Geek Out poster designed by Cody Coppernoll and enjoy free snacks and refreshments while supplies last. Events take place both indoors and outside at the Yankee Clipper Branch. All activities will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather.

Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now

Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. 

Watch 13 ON YOUR SIDE for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV and on your phone. 

Before You Leave, Check This Out