Cartooning Teen Stories

Engage young people aged 12+ with comics designed to open up discussion about issues including identity, bullying, sexuality and mental health

Comics are highly effective for broaching difficult social and emotional issues and this book explains how to use them with young people in educational and therapeutic settings. With 5 ready-to-use comics and advice on making them from scratch, learn how to support young people through interactive comics and help them to explore complex feelings.

Comics are perfect for working with young people. More than just sci-fi and superheroes, they can help young people to explore the issues affecting them and to express their own ideas.

Introducing the comic participation model, this practical photocopiable resource explains why comics are so relatable and engaging for young people. It looks at the different applications of comics, from simple doodle games to communicate one-on-one, to panel comics that relay entire stories. Five sample comics created in collaboration with young people are included, covering issues such as mental health, sexuality, trauma and bullying. There is also a practical how-to guide in comic form for creating a comic on any subject regardless of artistic ability, and accompanying session plans and worksheets that can be adapted to suit the needs of any individual.