You’ve probably heard of NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month, as well as NaPoWriMo, AKA National Poetry Writing Month. But did you know that there is also a National Graphic Novel Writing Month? Why wouldn’t there be one, of course; graphic novels represent some of the best literature (okay, most enjoyable literature to read; how about that?) and art of our culture. And how much fun would it be to actually commit one to paper and complete it?

I used to want to illustrate comic books. I did a few in high school and enjoyed the process; however, I once turned one in as an assignment—it as an approved format in a list of them, by the way—but received a “C” on it. The teacher knew I wrote and enjoyed my fiction, and said that I should stick with that—and that my comic didn’t really fit her established rules for the assignment, no matter how much I wanted to go with it.

That’s something I’d like for every budding writer and artist to do: refuse to show your work to those who might cut it down (such as a goofball friend or a critical parent) and show it to your known supporters, the people you have in your corner (your best friend, a supportive parent, your biggest fan). Recall that it’s a matter of personal taste and a subjective, not an objective, opinion, and that no matter what anyone says, your work has value and if you enjoy it, that’s the most important thing. After all, Twilight was a hit; if that can make the bestseller list, your own grocery list has a chance.

In order to take part in NaGraNoWriMo, you need to have your entire graphic novel finished by October 31. It must be at least 48 pages to qualify. And if you think that’s a challenge, you should check out the annual 24-Hour Comic Book Day, in which the entire challenge is narrowed down to just a 24-hour period! Unfortunately that day has passed (it was October 1), but you could still try the challenge if you want to—or simply mark your calendar for next year.

In the meantime, what story do you have in mind for your graphic novel? Something supernatural, or maybe a western hero theme? Whatever you decide to do, be sure to promote it here so you can get lots of support and readers.