Your graphic novel isn't a novel. It's a screenplay, and editors can tell from page one whether you know the difference. First Second Books editor Ivan Taurisano explains how to write and submit a graphic novel script that gets read.

Kids ages 8 to 12 head straight for the graphic novel shelf, and prose writers are trying to follow them there. But Ivan says a submission that misses the format doesn't just earn a "not for me." It can earn a "don't send me your next one." Here's what he wants you to know before you write a single panel.

In this episode:

  • Why writing a graphic novel is closer to writing a screenplay than a prose novel
  • Revealing character through dialogue alone (no "she looked wistfully at the ocean")
  • Why editors talk page count, not word count, and the "70,000-word graphic novel" red flag
  • What to submit for a script-only project vs. an author and illustrator team: script, pitch, synopsis, and 20–30 sample pages
  • How much art direction is too much, and the one question to ask before you leave an art note
  • Why illustrators usually earn more than writers
  • The biggest mistake Ivan sees: art that doesn't match the audience you're pitching
  • Why kids who read "slightly above their level" become lifelong readers
  • Adult graphic novels and First Second's sister imprint, 23rd Street

Ivan's manuscript wishlist:

  • Middle grade graphic novels about girl friendship that capture how big those fights and bonds feel at 10, 11, and 12
  • Dragons
  • Early reader graphic novels for ages 4–7, 64–96 pages, any topic
  • Stories with fresh magic systems
  • A joyful, new take on the immigrant journey that shows the excitement, not only the hardship

Ivan's inbox (ivan.taurisano@firstsecondbooks.com) is open to agented and unagented creators, and he gives feedback when he passes. 

Books and resources mentioned:

  • Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud (Ivan's must-read before you write a graphic novel)
  • The Investigators by John Patrick Green
  • Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
  • Pizza and Taco
  • Narwhal and Jelly
  • Parachute Kids
  • Tuck Everlasting (graphic novel adaptation)
  • Clara and the Devil
  • How to Catch Santa Claus (How to Catch series)
  • James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl

Hit play, then grab a graphic novel for the age group you want to write for. Follow Writers With Wrinkles so you don't miss our next Ask Beth and Lisa episode, and send us your questions!

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