Comix.@$#!

A graphic novel discussion program for teens.

Comix.@$#! introduces teens to the wonderful world of comics and graphic novels, explores graphic novels as literary and visual works of art, brings together teens with other teens to discuss and read 10 unique selections.

This theme based reading-and-discussion program was developed by a dynamic group of Young Adult librarians from throughout California, a renowned Young Adult literature specialist, and several teenagers themselves. Each week program participants tackle 3-4 titles within a specific theme with the help of a discussion facilitator.

The comix.@$#! program can be used as a middle school or high school discussion program. We encourage you to tailor the program to suit your individual community of readers.  After reviewing the titles, in particular Pedro & Me, Pride of Baghdad, and Mars, you may consider withholding these titles from your middle school program in order to create a more age appropriate program for younger readers.

Featured Novels

Beyond the Screen

  • Astro Boy, Volume 6 by Osamu Tezuka
  • Simpsorama by Matt Groening
  • Full Metal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa

Heroes and Journeys

  • Pedro & Me by Judd Winick
  • Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
  • American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

Everyday Life

  • Death: The High Cost of Living by Neil Gaiman
  • Pride of Baghdad by Brian K. Vaughan and Niko Henrichon
  • Runaways by Brian K.Vaughan, Adrian Alphona & Takeshi Miyazawa
  • Mars, Volume 1 by Fuyumi Soryo

Book Discussion In a Box

Comix.@$#! organizers will receive:

  • 10 copies of each of the titles in the program (100 books total)
  • an insightful essay on the history and value of graphic novels
  • list of recommended discussion questions
  • list of recommended supplementary activities
  • list of recommended additional titles
  • evaluation tools
  • promotional posters
  • 100 bookmarks
  • 100 flyers

Discussion Format

Two suggested formats to structure the program:

Format One:

  • Week 1: Beyond the Screen discussion
  • Week 2: Heroes and Journeys discussion
  • Week 3: Everyday Life discussion
  • Week 4: Graphic novel related activity

Format Two:

  • Week 1: Beyond the Screen discussion
  • Week 2: Graphic novel related activity
  • Week 3: Heroes and Journeys discussion
  • Week 4: Graphic novel related activity
  • Week 5: Everyday Life discussion
  • Week 6: Graphic novel related activity

Online Resources

Additional Resources