Children's and Young Adult Comics

Childrens and Young Adult Comics is a critical guide to the history, form, and contexts of the genre, covering key texts, cultural contexts, and theoretical and critical approaches. It includes a glossary of critical terms and a resources section to help students and readers develop their understanding.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 16 April 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Children's and Young Adult Comics: A Comprehensive Critical Guide to the History, Form, and Contexts of the Genre

Children's and Young Adult Comics is a comprehensive and accessible guide that delves into the rich history, diverse forms, and significant cultural contexts of this genre. Written for readers of all ages, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of how comics have engaged with one of their most crucial audiences: children and young adults.

The book begins by tracing the evolution of comics for children and young adults, from the early cartoon strips of the past to their rise as mainstream children's literature. It examines the cultural influences, societal trends, and technological advancements that have shaped the genre over the years. The authors provide a historical timeline, highlighting key milestones and notable works that have contributed to the development of children's and young adult comics.

In addition to its historical overview, Children's and Young Adult Comics explores the cultural contexts in which these comics are produced and consumed. The authors examine the impact of various factors, such as the Comics Code Authority, censorship laws, and the rise of graphic novels, on the content and representation of comics for children and young adults. They discuss the ways in which comics have been used to promote literacy, social justice, and cultural diversity, as well as the challenges and controversies surrounding their production and distribution.

The book also includes a comprehensive analysis of key texts within the genre. It covers familiar favorites like Peanuts and Archie Comics, as well as YA graphic novels such as Gene Luen Yang's American Born Chinese and hybrid works like the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. The authors provide in-depth discussions of the themes, characters, and artistic styles employed in these works, highlighting their relevance to children and young adults.

Furthermore, Children's and Young Adult Comics offers important theoretical and critical approaches to studying children's and young adult comics. The book includes a glossary of crucial critical terms that readers can use to deepen their understanding of the genre. It also includes a lengthy resources section, which provides a wealth of information, including recommended readings, academic articles, and online resources, to help students and readers develop their understanding of these genres and pursue independent study.

In conclusion, Children's and Young Adult Comics is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the world of comics for children and young adults. Written in an accessible and engaging style, the book provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the genre's history, forms, and contexts. It offers insights into the cultural influences, societal trends, and artistic innovations that have shaped this dynamic medium, and it provides a wealth of information and resources to help readers develop their understanding and appreciation of children's and young adult comics. Whether you are a reader, educator, or scholar, this book is a must-have for anyone seeking to explore the rich and diverse world of comics for children and young adults.

Weight: 260g
Dimension: 139 x 215 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350009196