I have always been a fan of books, graphic novels, and films that have a certain quietness to them. There are a number of graphic novels that slow things down—they have a "Quiet Panel" quality to them, if you will. These aren't wordless selections: the images, text and tone help to pump the brakes on a frantic world. Here is a quick roundup of some of my favorites.

Dockwood: 2 Autumn Stories by Jon McNaught

The ultimate in slowing down and breaking everyday actions into individual panels. If you enjoy seeing potatoes washed, peeled, and cut in about 20 panels, then this is for you! This work is a lyrical look at transitions, told in two separate stories. Beautiful.

Here by Richard McGuire

Have you ever wondered what the same location would look like over millions of years? Travel through history and the future to see how one location transforms. You'll start to wonder about your own space and what was and will be.

Through the Woods by Emily Carroll

This masterful horror anthology really gets your skin crawling—in a good way. Gracefully sliding back and forth between tension-building panels and precise storytelling, this work will stay on your mind long after the last page.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret: a Novel in Words and Pictures by Brian Selznick

Entirely unique, this is a novel wrapped in a picture book wrapped in a graphic novel. The illustrations are both fantastical and precise and lead you through as the mystery unfolds.

See America: A Celebration of our National Parks & Treasured Sites, illustrated by the artists of Creative Action Network

Technically not a graphic novel, this work, made in conjunction with the National Parks Conservation Association, is full of serene posters that will draw you in to the majestic views of America's National Parks. A re-launch of the "See America" campaign from FDR's New Deal and WPA program, 55 artists bring 75 locations to life with stunning new posters.

Flip through and enjoy the quiet solitude of America's most beautiful lands and monuments. More images at seeamericaproject.com.