Making of a science fiction graphic novel in the context of illustration and design in graphic novels for children

As Atatürk put it, "The greatest guide is science and knowledge" and an effective way for the society to adopt this guide for children, is for children to make science a part of their lives. In addition to the transfer of theoretical knowledge through theory based courses, there is evidence that information can be efficiently transferred within science fiction stories in "graphic novels". The focus of this study is directed towards the production of science fiction themed graphic novels for children. In the first chapter, the developmental stages of children is examined and the methods of visual communicaiton for children at each stage is put forward. In the second chapter, the definition of "graphic novel", its origins, development and status in Turkey is discussed with examples, and graphic novel terms is listed. In the third chapter, illustration and design in graphic novels for children are examined with examples aimed at age groups 6-8 and 9-12, ages when skills of children begin to develop. In the fourth chapter, the visual trends developed in illustration and design taking place in science fiction products, as well as definition of science fiction and its history are given. In the fifth and the last chapter, the development of the story and the script for the science fiction graphic novel, the illustration and design process are explained. In the conclusion chapter, general evaluation of the studies, research, applications are presented in the hopes to be helpful to similar studies in the future. Keywords: Children, graphic novel, illustration, design, science fiction