A graphic novel is a book-length work of fiction or nonfiction that uses a combination of illustrations and text to tell a story. Unlike traditional comic books, graphic novels often have a more complex narrative structure and can explore deeper themes. They are typically bound like a book and can cover a wide range of genres, from fantasy to memoir. Graphic novels are created using a series of panels that contain images and dialogue, similar to comics. They can appeal to readers of all ages and have gained popularity in recent years, with notable examples including Maus by Art Spiegelman and Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi.