ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by describing how cover art has evolved to reflect a changing marketplace and how young adults can use that art as a tool for selecting and interpreting books. It explores works that use illustrations to integrate visual design with storytelling. The chapter helps teachers take full advantage of the power of visuals. By understanding the elements of art and design, teachers can help their students appreciate visuals as an art form and as an aid to interpreting and engaging with narratives. The chapter also examines the characteristics of graphic novels and evaluates their role in the literature classroom. It suggests that picture books are a useful vehicle for exploring the conventions of telling stories with visuals. As anecdotal evidence, research, and expert opinion all indicate that graphic novels have the potential to enhance motivation and learning in powerful ways, the chapter explores their potential for engaging reluctant readers and for examining social and cultural themes.
