You Can Do a Graphic Novel
Grade 7 Up—Once readers get past the grammatically questionable title, they'll find that this is a practical book for those who aspire to create their own graphic novels. Slate brings a lot of experience to the table. She is fair handed with the advice she gives to writers as well as artists. The assumption is that readers will try to do both, but she recommends collaborating with someone so that writers and artists can complement one another's talents. Some of Slate's most helpful advice applies to the general creative process, such as dealing with "Creative Block," going outside your circle of friends and family members for honest feedback, and eavesdropping on conversations for dialogue ideas. She also includes nuts-and-bolts advice that will be helpful for readers who are looking for more structure, like demonstrating how to create a "bible" for each character. One of the best practical tips entails using index cards and sticky notes for plotting, as well as color-coding for each character. The instructions and illustrations are easy to follow, and the format is colorful and eye-catching. Slate's examples of completed panels are excellent, but the chapter of teens' work will be even more enticing to a young audience.—Andrea Lipinski, New York Public Library(c) Copyright 2010.  Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc.  No redistribution permitted.