Graphic Novels: Evolution of the American Comic Book

Scott McCloud, Author and Artist, Making Comics

Rory Root, Owner, Comic Relief

Comics and graphic novels have seen a meteoric rise in popularity in the last few years. For decades, “comics” were not taken seriously by readers or critics; however, with the popularity of the work of R. Crumb and Harvey Pekar and the success of books and comics like Maus, Ghost World, Sin City and Optic Nerve, comics and graphic novels have leapt from the world of American sub-culture squarely into the world of popular and even high culture. What accounts for this change? How are graphic novels shaping American and literary culture? Come hear the industry’s leaders talk about these issues and more.

This program was recorded live on August 22, 2007