In honor of Free Comic Book Day coming up on Saturday, May 2nd all across North America, I thought I'd lighten it up a little bit. Everyone could use a good laugh once in a while. We'll get back to math tomorrow!
A couple of weeks ago, I found my 8 year old nephew immersed in a book. He loves to read, so I was anxious to see what had caught his interest. What does this have to do with comic books?
It turns out that he was reading one of GreenGuy's favorite graphic novels. If your child enjoys comic books, he or she might get a kick out of The Essential Calvin and Hobbes, by Bill Watterson. This series will appeal to children ages 8 and up.
Even though my son started to read this series when he was about 7 or 8 years old, I find that GreenGuy constantly goes back to reread the many books in this series. That's why I think that anyone with a son (especially one who is a reluctant reader) might want to seek out this series of graphic novels. Dads will also enjoy reading these books.
My son also went through a stage of writing and illustrating his own comic books (what a way to get children writing!), but I can't say if that was before or after he discovered this series.
Another series that GreenGuy enjoyed within the past year is Bone, by Jeff Smith. This series of graphic novels consists of longer books, and seems to have generally been written for children ages 10 and up. I have not read these books myself, and I did notice that one Amazon reviewer was upset that some characters smoked. My theory is that when books call our attention to inappropriate behavior, it's a perfect opportunity for parents to make it a "teachable moment," and to convey to our children our own values and beliefs. That's why it's so important for parents to examine the books their children are reading, and to read along with them, if possible.
I think that fathers and sons will especially enjoy reading these books together. What great gifts they would make for Father's Day (coming up in the USA in June)! Of course, girls and their moms (or dads) may enjoy them as well.
So, why not make reading fun with a free comic book or graphic novel?
By the way, some graphic novels are for more mature readers. That's why it's especially important to screen books in this particular genre for age appropriateness. You can find Jeff Smith's Bone series, and some other recommended graphic novels for adults at Time and at The New York Times.
So, does your child enjoy reading any specific comic books or graphic novels? Please feel free to share!
I wish you many laughs this week.
