"Understanding Comics" is a graphic novel by Scott McCloud that explores the art and theory of comics. It breaks down the medium's unique language, examining how images and words combine to convey meaning. McCloud discusses the history of comics, their cultural significance, and the various styles and techniques used by artists. The book also introduces concepts like the "gutter," which refers to the space between panels, and how readers fill in these gaps to create a narrative. By analyzing the mechanics of storytelling in comics, McCloud provides valuable insights into how visual art communicates ideas and emotions.