How to Distinguish Between a Comic Book and a Graphic Novel. As the graphic novel concept grew in popularity, it became a distinct medium separate from comic books. Their impact continues to shape the landscape of modern storytelling and publishing.To distinguish between a comic book and a graphic novel, consider factors such as length, storytelling format, and publication style.
Steps
How to Distinguish Between a Comic Book and a Graphic Novel
Step 1: Determine whether the publication is a periodical or a single work.
A comic book is a periodical with volume and issue numbers, often serialized in nature. It may be part of an ongoing series, whereas a graphic novel is a standalone publication, usually not serialized.
Step 2: Note how many stories are contained between the pages.
A comic book often contains multiple stories, usually ranging from one to four, possibly with different characters. In contrast, a graphic novel usually contains a single story with a consistent cast of characters throughout. While collections with multiple stories, such as “The Greatest Superman Stories Ever Told,” may be thick like graphic novels, they are actually graphic anthologies.
Step 3: Count how many pages the comic contains.
Comic books typically have between 32 to 96 pages, though the standard today is around 32 pages. Graphic novels, on the other hand, tend to be much longer, ranging from 60 to 500 pages.
Step 4: Observe the dimensions of the comic.
The dimensions of a comic book are typically 6 5/8 inches (17 cm) wide and 10 1/4 inches (26 cm) tall. Graphic novels can have similar dimensions, but they are more likely to be published in trade paperback or oversize editions. For instance, trade paperbacks have a width of 5.32 inches (13.5 cm) and a vertical length of 8.51 inches (21.6 cm).
Step 5: See how the comic is bound.
Traditional comic books usually bind with staples, while graphic novels typically use higher-quality bindings, such as glue or stitched binding, similar to books or magazines.
Step 6: Note the quality of the paper used.
Traditional comic books print on lower-grade, matte-finish paper, while graphic novels use higher-grade paper, either matte or glossy. Although modern comics may print on higher-quality paper, their staple binding and shorter story length still distinguish them from graphic novels.
Step 7: Look at the price.
Graphic novels generally cost more than comic books due to their higher-quality printing, longer length, and the fact that they are standalone publications. Because of their limited scope and serialized nature, comic books tend to be less expensive.
Step 8: Finished.
By considering these aspects, you’ll be able to distinguish between a comic book and a graphic novel based on their format, structure, content, and overall presentation.