Adorable Empire: A Graphic Novel

by Laura Terry

This graphic novel offers a humorous take on the quest for power and social standing in a middle school setting. Through vibrant illustrations and witty dialogue, it explores the absurdity of trying to be 'the boss' of one's social world.

Big Idea

The desire for control is often a mask for insecurity, and genuine connection is more valuable than social rank.

Discussion Questions

1.What does it mean to have an 'empire' in middle school?
2.How do the visuals enhance the humor in the story?
3.What does the protagonist learn about power?
4.How does the author use 'show, don't tell' through artwork?
5.Is the protagonist a hero or a villain?

Lesson Plan

⏱ 75 minutes📦 Large poster paper, markers, stickers, glue.

Learning Goals

Analyze how graphic novel panels convey meaning
Understand the satire of social structures
Practice visual literacy
Evaluate character development

Activity Steps

1.Brainstorm different social groups in school
2.Design a map of the 'kingdom' showing territories
3.Create rules for the kingdom
4.Compare the imaginary kingdom to the real school
5.Reflect on how to make the school more inclusive

Standards Connections

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.7
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.2
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.4.1
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.R.7

Pace-Write-Read Study with Pace-Write It!

Graphic novels offer a unique look at visual pacing. The eye must travel through panels, following the 'rhythm' of the layout to understand the emotional impact. By teaching this book, students see how large splash pages slow down the story to emphasize a realization, while dense, small panels accelerate the pace during chaotic comedic scenes.

Element	How to notice or teach it in the novel
Pacing	Use layout size to dictate how quickly the reader processes the narrative.
Plot	Build the story around a central, escalating misunderstanding.
Prosody	Study sound effects and text size to understand how to 'read' the volume of dialogue.
Word	Focus on using limited text to create maximum impact in speech bubbles.
Voice & Worldview	Help students develop a distinct tone that permeates both text and art.

Pace-Write It!

Students draw a 3-panel strip showing a character getting nervous, focusing on how panel size increases in tension.

Classroom Activities

World-Building the Kingdom of Middle School

Students map out a hypothetical 'kingdom' based on school social groups, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each social structure.

World-Building the Kingdom of Middle School

Students map out a hypothetical 'kingdom' based on school social groups, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each social structure.