How to Read Comics

Reading comics can be an enjoyable experience once you know how to navigate through their unique storytelling format. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to read comics properly, select the best comics to read, and even start collecting them.

Method 1: Reading Comic Pages Properly

Step 1: Read Western (American) Comic Pages

• Direction: Read from left to right, top to bottom.
• Panels: Start with the top-left panel and move right. Read each dialogue bubble within the panel from left to right, starting with the leftmost bubble.

Step 2: Move to the Next Panel

• Order: Move to the next panel on the right once you finish reading the current one.
• Rows: Follow this pattern for each row of panels.

Step 3: Read Stacked Panels Together

• Stacked Panels: Panels that are stacked on top of each other should be read in sequence, starting with the top panel.
• Connected Actions: These panels often show connected actions or dialogue.

Step 4: Read Manga (Japanese Comics) from Right to Left

• Direction: Manga is read from right to left and top to bottom.
• Panels and Dialogue: Follow the same reading direction for both panels and dialogue.

Step 5: Pay Attention to Dialogue Bubble Shapes

• Speech Bubbles: Circular with a tail pointing to the speaking character.
• Shouting Bubbles: Jagged edges or bold text indicate shouting.
• Thought Bubbles: Puffy clouds with a trail of dots pointing to the character’s head indicate thoughts.
• Narration Panels: Square or rectangular blocks indicate narration.

Method 2: Selecting a Comic to Read

Step 1: Figure Out Your Interests

• Genres: Choose a genre that interests you, such as romance, action, fantasy, or horror.
• Writers: Pick comics by writers you admire or have heard good things about.

Step 2: Choose a Character or Story

• Popular Characters: Start with well-known characters like Spider-Man, Superman, or Wonder Woman.
• Movie Inspirations: Read comics that inspired your favorite movies, such as Avengers or Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.

Step 3: Research the Storyline

• Timeline: Understand the timeline of the story, especially for long-running series.
• Events: Focus on major events or story arcs that interest you.

Step 4: Check Reading Lists

• Online Lists: Use online reading lists tailored to specific characters, publishers, or genres.
• Search Terms: Use search terms like “DC reading list” or “Marvel reading list” to find recommendations.

Step 5: Learn Comic Terminology

• Graphic Novels/Trade Paperbacks: Multiple issues of a comic collected in one book.
• Omnibus: A large book bundling an entire storyline.
• Issues: Individual chapters of a storyline released monthly.

Method 3: Collecting Comic Books

Step 1: Browse Comic Shops

• Physical Copies: Regularly visit comic shops to buy physical comics.
• Storage: Ensure you have adequate storage space for your collection.

Step 2: Purchase Digital Comics

• Convenience: Digital comics are easy to store and organize.
• Platforms: Use platforms like Comixology to buy and read digital comics.

Step 3: Store Your Comics Properly

• Protection: Use plastic sleeves to protect physical comics from yellowing.
• Storage Options: Utilize collector’s boxes for added protection and aesthetic appeal.

Step 4: Obtain Free Comics

• Free Comic Book Day: Visit comic shops on this day to get free issues.
• Online Stores: Platforms like Comixology often offer free issues.

Method 4: Diving In

Step 1: Start with Any Story

• Flexibility: Don’t worry about reading in a specific order; start with a story that interests you.

Step 2: Pick One Story or Series

• Focus: Concentrate on one series to avoid getting overwhelmed.

Step 3: Branch Out

• Explore: Once you finish a series, explore other stories by the same writer, featuring the same character, or from the same publisher.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy comics to the fullest, whether you’re reading them for the first time or expanding your collection.