Physical and Digital COmic bOOKS 

 While both graphic novels and comics have some similarities they are two different forms of media. 

How to tell the difference between a graphic novel and a comic book. 

Similarities 

• They both use panel style illustrations.

• They have superheroes and villains.

Differences 

• One determining factor in the difference between graphic novels and comics is binding.  Comics use saddle stitching ( they are held together with staples in the spine)  Graphic novels are bound either by hardback or trade paper (soft cover) like a book with a thick spine glued to hold pages together.

• The other differences are in the storyline plot development and narrative. While comic books are produced monthly, graphic novels take longer. Graphic novels also delve deeper into character development and story lines. Essentially graphic novels are read like a book, and a true graphic novel is read from right to left.

• The differences in binding and paper quality play vital roles and how one preserves graphic novels and comic books.