Comic books aren't only for children. Adults love them too.

I love comic books. They tell stories which are difficult to tell in any other medium--a kind of blending between novels, movies and soap operas. Comics also have the amazing quality of visually showing the action, while also delving into the minds of the actors. The artwork often rises to truly incredible quality, and the writing is frequently first rate. The biggest feature of comic books is how they tell an ongoing story, where acts and behavior have real consequences and alter their worlds. It's fascinating to watch, and even better to experience.

When we're little, we tell basic stories of adventure and fantasy. We watch crazy cartoons about talking animals and robotic time-travelers. Then, we move to deeper and more intelligent stories. I think it's only natural to combine the real and unreal in magazine format, with pictures and dialogue. Comic books satisfy visual artwork and intellectual story, without compromising either. Yes, movies can do the same, but they can't express inner thoughts and narrative as simply and elegantly as comic books.

I've never understood why comics are frowned on, as though they weren't proper stories, or are beneath the notice of adults. Sure, they're ridiculous and overblown, have huge casts of characters and too many plots, yet they remain popular vehicles for storytelling. It's fascinating to find comics all around the world. I think they deserve higher respect in the world of stories, and definitely should be given more credit than they currently have (although with the Marvel movies, comics are seeing a definite resurgence).

- M