Writing for Comics & Graphic Novels

$87 for eight sessions

Most comics and graphic novels are made by a team: including an artist and a writer! Before the artist draws a single line, the writer has usually already decided what happens on every page, what fits in every panel, and every word the characters say.

In this eight-week class, teens learn to be that writer with the guidance of Jeremy Whitley, a professional comics writer whose work ranges from Marvel to My Little Pony. Each week builds on the last as students learn script format, thinking in panels, pacing and the page turn, dialogue and captions, and visual storytelling. The course ends with each student sharing a polished five-page comic script and a pitch for their own series.

Lots of teens love comics, manga, and graphic novels but assume they can’t make them because they don’t draw. This class shows them that the story starts with the writer. It’s a great fit for readers who’ve always wanted to create their own comics and for young artists who want to write stronger stories for their own work.

Please note—this is a writing class, not an art class. Students will try one quick stick-figure exercise to see how a story moves from panel to panel, but no artistic skill is needed. Recommended for ages 12–16ish.