The Panel Pack

A Monthly Graphic Novel Book Club for Kids in Grades 3-5

Graphic novels can be the gateway to enthusiastic readers. Read the book on your own, then join us monthly for discussion, games, and activities based on our book of the month.

November's book is The Night Librarian by Christopher Lincoln. Register in person at the library. Registration opens October 20th. If your student has dietary restrictions that we need to accommodate, please let us know when you register.

About The Night Librarian:

Twins Page and Turner know about the magic a library holds—they’ve been going to their beloved New York City public library for years, especially since their parents are always traveling for work. But a secret mission involving their dad’s rare and valuable edition of Bram Stoker’s Dracula uncovers a world they’ve never known, featuring a mysterious Night Librarian, famous heroes (and villains) that have broken free from classic books, and an epic battle to save the library from total destruction.

Benefits of Reading Graphic Novels for Kids
1. Builds Strong Reading Skills

• Encourages visual literacy
• Helps with sequencing, cause and effect, and plot development
• Offers context clues through illustrations

2. Supports Struggling and Reluctant Readers

• Less text per page feels less intimidating
• Pictures help decode meaning
• Great for kids with dyslexia, ADHD, or language-based learning challenges

3. Expands Vocabulary

• Exposes kids to rich language in a digestible format
• Supports understanding of idioms, slang, and expressive dialogue

4. Develops Critical Thinking

• Requires readers to infer emotions, motivations, and tone
• Encourages comparing text and image for full meaning

5. Boosts Comprehension and Retention

• Engaging visuals support memory
• Helps kids recall and retell stories more easily

6. Encourages a Love of Reading

• Fast-paced, fun, and often humorous
• Builds confidence as kids finish books more quickly

7. Broadens Access to Diverse Stories

• Graphic novels often explore unique cultures, identities, and perspectives
• Gives kids windows into other worlds and mirrors of their own

8. Inspires Creativity and Artistic Expression

• Kids often start drawing or making their own comics
• Introduces storytelling elements like panel layout and dialogue pacing

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