Q&A for How to Create a Graphic Novel

I would recommend either taking courses to improve your own artwork or hiring an artist who can bring your story to life for you (with your help and guidance). There are a lot of people out there who are really good at drawing, and chances are, you might know one of them. Talk to them, explain your ideas, and show them your novel.

Makingcomics.com has a "making a graphic novel" section and this has 10 steps that are well written.

Copic marker paper is bleed-resistant and has a very good texture. You can buy it online.

Print on glossy paper, using a photo quality printer. Most photo printers will have an option to print on gloss, which will come out smooth. Or, take it to a print shop and specify what you want.

It really doesn't matter. Go with what you prefer.

You can practice until you get better, or you can ask a friend that is good at drawing to help you out.

A simple way is to scan your drawings with a printer that supports that function. Your drawings will be saved onto the computer and can be accessed in the file explorer. From there, editing and retouching can be done with the drawings and then finally printed. Consider purchasing a graphic tablet, so that you're able to draw directly onto the computer with the use of an art program. This makes editing and printing easier and can perhaps make the quality of the drawings greater.

Graphic novels can be based off pretty much anything: a time in your life, a historical era, another book or movie (but pay attention to copyright issues)...

It depends. You could create your illustrations and color them on the computer. You can also print it out and color. Or you can do everything on paper, including panel formatting and coloring.

There are many ways, but if you want to keep it simple, just make the villain the source of some problem or conflict that the hero has to deal with or solve.

Write it as a novel or a novella. The way the scenes are written can provide some guidance in the drawing process.

I recommend using a shared file on a design service like Canva. If you want to collaborate physically, consider sending it through the mail.

To create a great graphic novel as a kid, focus on crafting an engaging story with unique characters and practice your drawing skills regularly. Use online resources and feedback from others to improve your work.

Yes, graphic novels are popular with teenage readers. Additionally, many adults enjoy young adult literature and graphic novels. Write the novel!

Minors can definitely get their work published. Start by researching literary agents who work with your genre, whether it's mystery, poetry, or graphic novels. They are often active on social media. Also, learn how to write a pitch for a literary agent using online guides. An agent will help you find the best publishing house and marketing team, ensuring you are not taken advantage of.

Generally, writers and illustrators don't work closely together initially. You would write the novel with illustration cues, then approach a publisher or agent who can connect you with an illustrator if they like your project. This might feel strange, but it's the common process for graphic novels, manga, and children's picture books.

Identify the specific people and historical events you are interested in, conduct thorough research on them, and start writing. Additionally, read graphic novels on similar topics, such as "Maus," to gain insights.

You can use any coloring utensils as long as the color is vibrant enough to be visible when printed.

There is no strict industry format, but drafts are often preferred in 12-point Times New Roman, double-spaced. The final version may be modified by the publishers as needed.

If you only have a pencil, consider creating a manga-style cover or a simple art style that highlights your drawing skills.

No, many publishers produce traditional books and graphic novels. However, having digital versions of your novel can be helpful for promoting it on social media and online platforms.

Inspiration often comes when you're not actively doing artistic work. If you're experiencing writer's block, try going for a walk, listening to music, visiting a museum, or going to a zoo. Carry a small notebook for any sudden inspiration. Additionally, ensure you're getting enough sleep and maintaining good health, as it's a myth that only tortured artists create good art.

Find a literary agent, who will take it to a publisher. If you don’t want to do that, you can self-publish it, although it would then have less chance of being published commercially later on.

A comic book is much shorter than graphic novels. Some graphic novels are compilations of comic books, but not all of them are.

Try choosing another color instead of black. This will give readers the impression of color without having fully colored images.

Yes, but you would need written permission from the original creator(s).

You can try reaching out to the creators of the play, or the company that owns the rights to it (you should be able to find this online somewhere). You can ask them for the license of the play and whether they'll allow you to adapt it or not. If you're not going to publish it, you should be fine to adapt it as fan-fiction.

Inking is going over your pencil drawing with a pen. Inking does not apply only to black ink. Using different colors of ink can change how the reader sees your art and your story.

"Inking" is drawing the solid outline - in between the initial sketch and coloring it in.

It really doesn't matter what you write with; just go with what suits you the most.