Graphic Novels - From Reluctant Reader to Engaged Learner ~ ASLA Webinar Series 2026, SEPTEMBER

Serena Geddes is an award-winning author, illustrator and passionate advocate for visual literacy. As a child, she was a reluctant reader who found connection, confidence and imagination through her brother's comic collection. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong love of visual storytelling and ultimately led to a career creating books for young readers. In this session, Serena shares her journey from reluctant reader to professional illustrator, including the creation of her first graphic novel. Drawing on her experience as both an educator and storyteller, she explores how graphic novels support literacy development by combining words and images to strengthen comprehension, build empathy and increase engagement.