Kids cannot get enough of them — super-heroes, humor, mystery, adventure, and the non-fiction, too.  Many parents, meanwhile, are still dubious of the form.  In large part this must be due to the reputation of the graphic novel’s forbearer, the comic book, which was once thought of as being little good for anything more than  lowbrow entertainment.

There are worthwhile reads in every genre within the form and as accomplished artists continue to explore the medium, more beautiful and artistically sophisticated works are added to the list every year.  I urge you to have a look at some recent notable choices like the Babymouse series by Jennifer Holm or, as I will continue to proclaim from every mountaintop I can find, The Arrival by Shaun Tan (a contender for the greatest graphic novel ever).

You will find story-telling that, like in the best picture books, combines the visual and the written word in a way that engages the eye, the mind and the heart like nothing else.

http://www.education.wisc.edu/ccbc/books/graphicnovels.asp has more information on the subject.