Are Comic Books Good or Bad?

Should they be considered books or not?
Comic Books at the L.A. County Fair 20
Comic Books at the L.A. County Fair 20
Steven Miller

Superhero Spectaculars

Stan Lee Painting (Abijith Ka)

Comic books are not only entertaining but also beneficial to readers. They can improve attention span and keep readers engaged with their suspenseful storylines. Children can learn to understand deeper meanings and themes in the text through the combination of visual and textual elements that comics provide. And contrary to popular belief, reading comics can be just as beneficial as reading long novels or textbooks. Moreover, comic books are a form of art that adds color and depth to the story—something that is lacking in traditional books that rely solely on words. Reading comics can even improve important skills like memory and linear thinking. Overall, comic books are a valuable addition to any reading list, offering a unique and engaging reading experience that can be just as informative and enjoyable as other forms of literature.

Vile of the Villainous

Fredric Wertham (Alan Light)

Comic books, graphic novels, and manga are not books and should not be classified as such. They lack the depth and complexity of traditional books and are often compared to children’s picture books or storybooks. Additionally, they are considered “too easy” to read and do not require investment in time. Psychiatrist Frederic Wertham has been a vocal opponent of these media, claiming they are corrupt and detrimental to young readers. He argues that they promote violence and can lead children down a dangerous path. By exposing young readers to graphic and violent content, they may begin to see these actions as acceptable or even desirable.

Comic Conclusion

Comic books can certainly be entertaining and provide a nice break from longer books. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that they shouldn’t be your sole source of information or knowledge. Instead, reading textbooks or realistic fiction stories can help to broaden your understanding of different topics. While comic books can help with critical thinking, it’s important to recognize that not everything in them is acceptable or good. The opinions presented in comic books may be based on how characters act, speak, or think, and these ideas may not always be reliable or accurate. It’s essential to remember that comic books should not take away from other essential aspects of life, such as homework, work, or chores. While they can be a fun way to relax, it’s crucial to avoid becoming addicted or obsessed with them. Therefore, the next time you pick up a comic book, take a moment to consider other genres that may help you expand your knowledge and understanding of the world. Reading different types of books can be an excellent way to broaden your horizons and gain new perspectives.

Comic Book Contest

Do you wanna compete in an AWESOME comic contest? Your comic must be original, include dialogue, and be hand-drawn. Color is optional. The topic will be…(Drumroll Please)…kindness of a superhero. You must show a superhero spreading kindness in some way. Your superhero could be a person, an alien, or even a naked mole rat. Let your imagination take over and create a splendid sheet of creative comic art and story. All submissions will be due on April 12. One winner will be chosen along with two runner-ups. All grades are welcome! Hand your comic to LRC for review…who knows, maybe your amazing comic will be featured in the next edition of The Wred Feather. Good luck!

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About the Contributor
Jaxon Smith
Jaxon Smith, Staff Writer
Hi! Jaxon Smith here. Jaxon likes to read, write, and get into a good story whether it's theirs or not.  I also like dogs, cats, the color purple, opinions, games, and just doing something fun.

Comments (2)

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  • W

    Will SchuilingMay 3, 2024 at 10:03 am

    I really liked reading this! Personally, I love comic books 🙂

    Reply
  • M

    Meghan CannonMar 14, 2024 at 4:23 pm

    Great job, Jaxon! You’re article brings up many great points for each side of the debate. There is no doubt that comics/graphic novels are entertaining, informative stories that are just as worthy as any other form of literature. They are loved by readers of all ages!

    Reply