SKC511 - 49er Minors: Graphic Novel Writing
Course Overview
Where Art and Storytelling Collide
Unleash your imagination and step into the world where art and storytelling collide! Graphic Novel Writing is a hands-on camp designed for students in grades 5–8 who want to create their own comics and graphic novels—from the first story idea to the final panel.
Campers learn how words and visuals work together to tell powerful stories, build memorable characters, and bring original worlds to life on the page.
Learn the Building Blocks of Graphic Novel Storytelling
Campers “unravel the secrets” behind their favorite comics and graphic novels by learning the fundamentals of visual narrative and story structure.
What Campers Will Explore
- Panel layout and pacing to control action and emotion.
- Character development that makes heroes (and villains) unforgettable.
- Plot structure with strong beginnings, rising tension, and satisfying endings.
- Visual storytelling through images, color, composition, and mood.
Build Your Own Universe—One Panel at a Time
This camp isn’t just about reading graphic novels—it’s about creating them. Campers become the architects of their own stories as they brainstorm ideas, design settings, and develop original characters.
Create & Design
- Develop original story concepts and unique characters.
- Design worlds and settings that captivate readers.
- Plan scenes using thumbnails, storyboards, and scripts.
- Draft pages that combine writing, dialogue, and illustration.
Creativity Unleashed: Techniques That Make Stories Pop
Through writing and drawing, campers experiment with storytelling tools used by professional creators. From sketching to scripting, every activity brings imagination to life.
Storytelling Tools Campers Practice
- Foreshadowing to build suspense and surprise.
- Symbolism to add deeper meaning to art and story.
- Mood and tone through shading, color choices, and composition.
- Dialogue writing that sounds natural and moves the plot forward.
Collaborate, Share, and Grow as a Creator
Campers read, discuss, and share their favorite graphic novels throughout the week—gaining inspiration from a wide range of styles and genres. They’ll also have opportunities to collaborate with peers, give and receive feedback, and strengthen their creative confidence.
Mentorship & Community
- Work alongside other young writers and artists in a supportive environment.
- Practice collaboration through group activities and creative challenges.
- Mentor and collaborate with younger artists from the Cool School Graphic Novel Camp.
- Develop communication and leadership skills through creative teamwork.
Finish the Week as a Graphic Novel Creator
By week’s end, campers will emerge as graphic novel creators equipped with the skills and confidence to keep writing and illustrating long after camp ends.
What Your Child Will Take Away
- Progress on an original graphic novel (story + visuals).
- Improved creative writing, storytelling, and illustration skills.
- Stronger confidence sharing ideas and creative work.
- Inspiration from reading and discussing a variety of graphic novels.
Why Parents Choose Graphic Novel Writing
- Designed for grades 5–8 with age-appropriate instruction and projects.
- Blends literacy and art in a way that keeps students engaged.
- Builds writing, reading comprehension, and visual communication skills.
- Encourages creativity, confidence, and collaboration.
- Great for reluctant writers and passionate readers alike.
Dream Big, Draw Bold, Tell Your Story
If your child loves comics, drawing, or storytelling, Graphic Novel Writing is the perfect camp to turn imagination into a real project. Enroll today and help your middle school creator write, illustrate, and share a story that’s uniquely theirs—one panel at a time.