Oh, the graphic novel. All of a sudden, a few years back, these came across my radar. In my naivety, I scoffed--pictures? comics? Who needs those? I like the pictures I create in my head; slowly building up the details as the author paints a word picture. I'm a reader, I don't need pictures! Then again, I've been wrong before.
After all a picture is worth a thousand words. Especially a good, provocative picture. Then it is worth a million words (or maybe more). Graphic novels can go to deep places quickly, because the pictures can move with a speed words cannot. It might not take long to read, but this genre leaves a lasting impression.
My first graphic novel came from Canada Reads 2011: Essex County. I read it as I decided to read all the books but was the least familiar with the style and content of Jeff Lemire's work. Turns out, it was gripping. Great story, interesting pictures, heartfelt. I really enjoyed it. But I still felt 'out of touch' with the world of graphic novels. How does one even begin to engage a whole new kind of book. My limited, incorrect definition of comics (Saturday mornings, super heroes, or Japanese anime) crippled me when I walked into the section. I hardly knew where to start. I really liked reading Essex County, but then what? 
Recently I came across Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City by Guy Delisle (from CBC Book's Summer Reading List). Also a graphic novel, I was excited to dig in. And while Essex County was heartfelt, Jerusalem was heart wrenching. With a wit that transcends his pictures and a poignant eye that notices truth in little moments, Delisle's take on the people, the realities and the challenges of life in the Holy Land fascinated me. Delisle's story follows his year there with his wife (works with MSF/Doctors without Borders) and children, showing aspects of daily life (like finding a good playground) and big moments (like living through bombings). He provides lots of simplified background information so that his vignettes are accessible even if you aren't familiar with Middle East relations. Absolutely challenging subject matter. But this book is a great way to start engaging with a reality that ought not be ignored. 