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Abstract

Graphic novels have been growing in popularity and demand since they were first introduced as a format in 1978 by Will Eisner with his publication of A Contract with God (“Will Eisner”, n.d.). Graphic novels (GN) are a format of writing and illustration that spans fiction and non-fiction genres with many classic works being adapted into the format to encourage more young adult engagement. Yet, many libraries nationwide, including school and public libraries, lack a strong graphic novel collection. The American Library Association (ALA) is a national authority on issues related to intellectual freedom including the increase of challenges and censorship of books. During the research timeframe for this study, the ALA reported large increases in the number of challenges and censorship in libraries with a 14% increase from 2018 to 2019 (“Infographics,” 2024). Graphic novels are not immune to challenges and the perception is that graphic novels have become targets for challenges as the popularity of the format has grown. This study is intended to examine the ALA’s Top 100 Frequently Challenged Books Lists and Top 10 Most Challenge Lists to determine if graphic novels are experiencing an increase in challenges, whether the challenged graphic novels are recognized for their literary work by comparing the medium-specific Will Eisner Award and Harvey Award for graphic novels, and the reason graphic novels are being challenged through content analysis.

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