From the first comic, The Adventures of Mr. Obadiah Oldbuck, created in 1842, comic books have become part of the very tapestry of childhood for countless generations. Indeed, the brilliance of unimaginable action conveyed with just a few sharp, black lines, the familiar cascade of one-liners in speech bubbles and entire universes sitting within those neat margins of panels have been as much a part of our adolescence as the smell of chlorine and slap wristwatches. But where the 21st century has seen comics realised into extravagant franchises such as Marvel and DC and their endless, blockbuster collection of TV shows, cartoons and movies, have younger generations lost touch with the origin point – that is, a 15-page, thin-leafed comic book?
In 2024, the National Literacy Trust published findings that indicated a decline in children’s interest in reading where only one in three individuals (between ages 8 to 18) opted to read in their free time. But where the conventional novel can seem like merely another manifestation of schoolwork and academia – hence, the dislike – the comic offers storytelling in a far more dynamic and accessible format. Bright colours and near-alive scenes become doormen, ushering readers into that almost imperceptible lull of narrative and perhaps, further onto life lessons and meaningful connections with characters.
Publishing industries are joyfully reaping the rewards of these connections in 2025 as children’s graphic novels and comics flash an all-time high revenue of 20 million pounds in England. Media analyst at NielsenIQ BookData, Philip Stone, reports that film adaptations have moreover “boosted” interest in “manga series and comic fiction.” The impact of the boost goes far beyond economic benefits in signalling a larger and more crucial love for storytelling and reading at a young age. As countless studies would attest, including the one conducted by Manchester University, reading cultivates compassionate, open-minded and innovative individuals – a priceless, social currency in times of ChatGPT and the rise of AI.
From the beloved Deadhead Comics on Nicolson St. to Forbidden Planet on South Bridge, love for the comic book is alive and thriving in Edinburgh itself. If you’re looking for weekend plans, maybe pick a comic book and with it, a visit to a bright reality bursting with colour and story!
Photo by Miika Laaksonen on Unsplash