How can comics reach kids?

A father is concerned that comics no longer reach kids, suggesting that video games are the better value measured by engagement time. What can we do to reverse this trend? 

On today's show

• How can comics reach kids?
• UPDATE: Buffer (see addendum below)
• How can I avoid Trump's tariffs? (see other addendum below)

Addendum

One day after we recorded the drop that explained that Buffer did not support video uploads, they made an announcement. You guessed it — they've added that functionality. They still do not support adding content moderation labels.

Other addendum

During the campaign, President Trump made tariffs a large part of his platform. He pitched a wide range of tariffs and scenarios. He suggested a tariff of between 60 and 100% on goods imported from China, a tariff on cars imported from Mexico that ranged from 100% to 200%, he threatened John Deere with a 200% tariff if they outsourced to Mexico. During our discussion, we took the worst-case scenario — 200%. On Nov. 26, Trump solidified his economic plans, promising executive orders on Day One that would levy a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada with an additional 10% tax on Chinese imports. The upshot of the conversation remains the same: These costs will be passed along to American consumers and businesspeople (like us), and you would be wise to build these additional expenditures into any Kickstarter campaigns you have planned for 2025.

Summary

In this conversation, the hosts explore how parents can encourage reading among kids, the value of libraries, and community initiatives to promote access to books. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the evolving landscape of social media, particularly focusing on the emerging platform Blue Sky. They share their experiences with various social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changes and seizing opportunities for audience engagement. The discussion also touches on the potential of illustrated novels as an alternative storytelling medium, considering the labor-intensive nature of comics and the desire to share narratives more efficiently. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and ComicLab discuss the complexities of transitioning from comics to illustrated novels, emphasizing the importance of writing skills alongside illustration. They also delve into the potential impact of tariffs on printing costs, particularly for small publishers relying on overseas printing. The discussion highlights the challenges and realities of both creative and business aspects in the comic industry.

Takeaways

• Comics and graphic novels aimed at kids are a thriving print publishing sector. 
• Parents play a crucial role in fostering a love for reading in their children.
• Libraries are vital community resources that provide free access to books.
• Engagement with comics should not be measured solely by cost-effectiveness.
• Community initiatives like book exchanges can enhance access to literature.
• Encouraging kids to read requires active participation from parents.
• The comics industry is successfully reaching young audiences today.
• Creative solutions exist for parents to provide books without breaking the bank. Engagement on Blue Sky is currently very high.
• Deleting old social media accounts can be liberating.
• Scheduling posts is crucial for maximizing engagement.
• Blue Sky offers a unique opportunity for audience building.
• Social media fatigue is a common concern among creators.
• The landscape of social media is constantly changing.
• Illustrated novels could be a viable alternative to comics.
• It's important to adapt to new platforms quickly.
• Community moderation tools are essential for a healthy environment.
• Creators should always be on the lookout for new opportunities. You can be very successful in an illustrated novel situation.
• Writing is as complex as illustrating.
• Dunning-Kruger effect applies to perceptions of writing difficulty.
• Novelists can spend years honing their craft.
• Transitioning to a new art form requires significant time investment.
• Tariffs can drastically increase printing costs.
• Small publishers may struggle with rising costs due to tariffs.
• Navigating printing options requires careful consideration.
• Expect uncertainty regarding tariffs in the current political climate.
• Reshoring the printing industry is a complex challenge.

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.