Selection Guidelines
Consider the following factors when evaluating comics.
- Popularity. Monthly lists of the top-selling comics titles are readily available in fan magazines and trade journals.
- Tie-ins to TV shows, movies, video games, and toys.
- Age level, target audience, and general suitability.
- Genre. Super-hero and fantasy titles continue to be the most prevalent and popular genres, but libraries should consider exploring science fiction, humor, realistic fiction, and other styles.
- Writing quality, including originality of plot and characters, overall appeal, character development, dialogue, and pacing.
- Artistic quality, including layout, dramatic impact, storytelling flow, drawing skill, coloring (where relevant), and lettering.
- Artistic style, especially regarding distinctive styles such as manga or cartoon art.
- Reputation of writers and artists, many of whom have strong fan followings.
- Awards and recognition received. Major industry awards include the Eisner, Harvey, and Kirby awards. Significant annual fan awards include the Comics Buyer's Guide Fan Awards and the Usenet "Squiddies."
- Reputation of publisher.
- Color versus black & white. Newer readers may not be used to b&w comics.








