HOW TO DRAW A GRAPHIC NOVEL

A beginner’s guide to graphic novels and what goes into making one, translated from the original Italian.

“How to draw” is a little too specific for what this book offers, which is an overview of graphic novels and how they are made, with some attention to illustration tools and techniques. The first section consists of two-page guides that define and demonstrate various aspects of graphic novels, from print and digital publishing methods to creating one’s own font. The middle portion is written and drawn by graphic novelist and teacher of comic arts Gabos, conveyed via his avatar. Gabos delivers a point of view that’s more akin to a personable lecture than the previous section. Both portions acknowledge that readers should maintain good working habits and make mistakes through experimentation, keeping the creative process in their hands. Some topics demand more depth than the brief coverage they receive, such as coloring, copyright, and pitching to publishers. A dozen brief profiles of comics creators and five interviews with professionals from diverse backgrounds about their techniques, advice, and preferences offer readers a global view of career options. The author’s enthusiasm shines through when introducing readers to notable figures, as in his impassioned recommendation of Art Spiegelman’s Maus and his connecting of the personal angles of Marjane Satrapi’s and Jillian Tamaki’s work to readers’ own.

Broad but shallow, offering tips for creating a graphic novel and a basic, general comics primer.