This article examines the phenomenon of graphic novels generally, and in particular, their utility in second-language contexts via the example of the graphic adaptation of Klaus Kordoris "Der erste Fruhling." This text lends itself especially to bridging thematic gaps in 20th-century German literature courses, as well as the "language/literature divide," which is a current topic in language pedagogy. The article provides specific classroom techniques, in-class tasks, and writing assignments that will accommodate the varying student proficiency levels that often challenge instructors in second- and third-year college German courses.