Comics and Graphic Novels Could Be Key To Helping Children Read For Pleasure

Research from the National Literacy Trust (NLT) found that in 2023, reading enjoyment hit a crisis point. But new research by the NLT has shown that many children enjoy reading comics or graphic novels in their free time at least once a month.

Despite the steady decline in children reading for pleasure in recent years, this research highlights the importance of encouraging children to read from a variety of sources to inspire a love of reading – not just traditional storybooks.

The research showed that “children and young people who read comics were more engaged with reading, regardless of their age”. It also indicated that nearly twice as many children and young people who read comics in their free time said they enjoyed reading compared with those who didn’t read comics in their free time.

Out of the children who said they read comics, more children rated themselves as ‘very good’ or ‘good’ readers compared with those who didn’t read comics, and more of the comic readers also reported that they read something daily during their free time compared to children who didn’t read comics.

The full report can be read here:

These findings show the important role alternative forms of children’s entertainment, such as comics, graphic novels, and magazines have in inspiring children to read independently for enjoyment.

Not only do they help nurture a love of reading in children, but the findings show that reading such things improves literacy and confidence in their reading ability.

With decades of child development behind Green Bean Studios, we offer many different ways to encourage children to enjoy reading. Each year we produce several seasonal children’s magazines which support children’s development whilst providing fun entertainment and nurturing a love of reading.

Our magazines include engaging activities such as games, colouring, puzzles, arts and crafts, and free stickers, as well as a brand new story created for each issue by multi award-winning author, Anita Frost.

We’re passionate about helping more children read for pleasure and we are excited to see that these new findings by the NLT support our mission and what we already offer with our children’s magazines.

Share your thoughts with us on reading for pleasure reaching crisis point and whether Children’s Magazines are a good route to getting reluctant readers reading again! Email our team and continue the conversation: 

Meet our Precious Moments Ambassadors and hear their thoughts on children’s reading, outdoor adventures, play, and much more: ​