Comics in the Classroom

Comics in the Classroom is an innovative and essential guide for educators teaching children aged 7 to 14, offering a fresh perspective on the use of comics in education. As one of the first books published in the UK to comprehensively show how comics can be used in educational settings, it draws on a growing body of evidence to demonstrate how comics can transform learning experiences, enhance engagement, and support key educational outcomes.

The book begins with an exploration of the history and rationale for using comics in education, before delving into their role in fostering reading for pleasure, visual literacy, and oracy. It also examines how comics can inspire creative writing and drawing, serve as tools for critical thinking, and be integrated across the curriculum. Later chapters address important topics such as representation, accessibility, diversity, and the potential of comics in sustainable education. Each chapter combines research insights, real-world case studies, and practical activities, equipping educators with the tools to overcome challenges and start using comics effectively.

Packed with practical advice, this book is an invaluable resource for both new and experienced teachers eager to unlock the potential of comics in the classroom.

Helen Jones has worked in education for the past 25 years and is currently a Lecturer in Education at UCL Institute of Education. Helen is completing PhD research into children’s comics making and is the co-founder of Yo Comics!, a comics fair for and by kids.

Lucy Starbuck Braidley is a former primary school teacher and, as Head of School Libraries, leads the National Literacy Trust’s Libraries for Primaries programme. She is a passionate advocate for the use of comics in the classroom and producer and host of the Comics in Education podcast, Comic Boom.