May 17, 2024
The Evolution of Graphic Novels
Graphic novels have come a long way since their inception in the 1800s. While the history of Western comic books spans centuries, this post will focus on the evolution of graphic novels, specifically from the 1970s to the present day.
In the simplest terms, graphic novels are longer comic stories that average more than the usual 22 pages of single issues. They can range from 40 pages to even over 1,000 pages! The first American graphic novel, ‘Blackmark,’ was created by Gil Kane in 1971, but it was ‘The Death of Captain Marvel’ by Jim Starlin in 1982 that put graphic novels on the map.
From Marvel and DC to Image, DarkHorse, and IDW, there has been an influx of well-known graphic novels on the scene. However, like any other industry, the graphic novel industry also experienced a period of stagnation in the ’90s, only to revive in the mid-2010s. Most of the distribution was handled by Diamond Comic Distributors (founded in 1982), Penguin Random House (2013), and Lunar Distributors (2020).
A number of comics that did well in the 90s were:
In the mid-2010s, creators started using a “direct to customer” model, bypassing the primary distributors. Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, along with personal websites, played a significant role in this shift. Creators like Richard Meyer, Mark Pellegrini, Tim Lim, and Eric July pioneered this movement. While these books may not be readily available in your local bookstore, you can request them or buy them directly from the creators’ websites.
The graphic novel industry has never been more vibrant. With more creators venturing into the industry and the plethora of choices available to readers, the market for graphic novels is continuously expanding. The traditional industry standard is no longer the only model, and the metaphorical pie is no longer cut into fixed slices.
The graphic novel industry is experiencing a surge of success thanks to the contributions of independent creators. These creatives use their distinctive voices and viewpoints to craft captivating stories that appeal to a broad spectrum of readers. Notable contributors include:
Hybrid creators, who once worked (and may still be working) for traditional publishers, are now branching out to create their own compelling works. Harnessing their experience and innovative ideas, they are bringing fresh narratives and unique art styles to the world of graphic novels. These creators are not only shaping the current landscape of graphic novels but also paving the way for future independent creators. Examples of this trend include:
Whether you’re a creator or an avid reader, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of graphic novels. The industry is more open than ever, offering opportunities for new voices to be heard and for readers to discover a wide range of stories. So why wait? Dive into this exciting world and discover your next favorite graphic novel today!
Rippaverse Publishing LLC is committed to keeping the tradition and art of graphic novels alive. We understand the value that these works hold for both avid collectors and new readers alike. Our mission is to consistently deliver high-quality, engaging stories that captivate our audience, and we have done so with ISOM, Alphacore, Yaira, and many more to come. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of graphic novels, Rippaverse Publishing LLC is dedicated to offering you the best of this exciting medium.
Looking for your next read? Check out our store to see what titles can be yours today!
