A few days ago, it was reported that iconic musician Freddie Mercury’s life story will be turned into a graphic novel. The graphic novel will feature the Queen frontman's own words and will trace his  journey starting from his childhood in Zanzibar to his rise as one of the most recognised rockstars in the world. Z2 Comics said it will collaborate with Universal Music Group and Mercury Songs to publish ‘Freddie Mercury: Lover of Life, Singer of Songs’, which it described as “the first-ever graphic novel paying tribute to one of the greatest figures the music world has ever known”.

The rise of powerful illustration and engaging storytelling goes on to show the potential of graphic novels as works of literature. This form has been developing in India too. Although not yet as popular as conventional books, such works enjoy a dedicated, niche following among bibliophiles. The visuals in these works allow authors to make striking allegorical references to the political and social concerns of the day too.