Graphic novels have gained popularity over the past several years and
             can take many forms such as fiction, memoirs, documentaries, nonfiction,
             fairy tales, and mythology. These texts fill the shelves of most public
             and school libraries. Media specialists have noted the increase in
             circulation of graphic novels. Despite their popularity among students,
             county literacy coaches have instructed teachers to steer students away
             from graphic novels. Their reason is that these texts do not provide an
             authentic reading experience and lack the story structure present in
             traditional children's books which means they are not beneficial in helping
             them become better readers or critical thinkers. I have witnessed the
             attraction to graphic novels in my own fourth grade classes over the years.
             Readers of these texts have summarized, identified story elements, and
             made connections. Graphic novels are valid forms of literature that cover a
             wide range of topics, are suitable for a wide range of readers, from
             struggling to gifted students, and fit the need of providing 21st century
             Today's generation of children is what Marc Prensky calls Digital
             Natives. "They have never lived in a world that didn't have Internet, cell
             phones, video games, iPods, and all the other digital media that exist
             now." (Szymusiak, pg 140). These children are used to receiving
             information fast, multi-tasking, and they want instant gratification.
             Graphic novels meet that need by giving them texts that "match the way
             their brains are wired." (Szymusiak, pg 140). Educators must find a way
             for visual information and text to work together in order to keep students
             engaged and to make learning relevant. "Graphic novels use an arrangement
             of art, and thought and speech balloons that is familiar to today's
             visually literate students." (Gavigan, pg 2). Readers are required to
             process graphics and text and make sense of their...