Problem Solving! Economics! Space Travel? The New York Fed’s Educational Comic Book Series brings readers on an out-of-this-world journey to teach about economics and financial literacy.

As the Creative Director, I lead the multi-year campaigns, developing seven original stories across print and digital platforms. The series print run includes 500,000+ units in global distribution and is translated into Spanish.  As a result of the marketing strategy, the campaign was featured in the New York Times and on NPR for its accessible content, visuals, and inclusive representation.

Vibe

Neurotic Alien + Girl Boss + Lizard = Economics in Space!

Stats

  • 500,000+ distributed
  • 24-page four-color press-bound booklet
  • In-house development with artists, educators, economists
  • Student Audience (middle/high school and early college)

Background

The New York Fed’s comic book series has been published since 1959. Relaunched in 2017, the modern spin features three intrepid characters as they travel the universe and teach basic economic concepts.

Created for middle school, high school, and introductory college students, the series helps stimulate curiosity and raise their awareness of careers in economics. Corresponding lesson plans meet national and state education standards for New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

Art and Story by Tom Bayne and Paul Noth
Panel from The Story of Monetary Policy
Panel from The Story of Monetary Policy
Panel from The Story of the Federal Reserve System
Panel from The Story of the Federal Reserve System
Panel from Once Upon A Dime
Students reading Comic Book series
MP3 | Marketplace “Why the Federal Reserve makes comic books”

PDF | New York Times “Splat! Blam! It’s the Federal Reserve to the Rescue

PDF | The Story of the Federal Reserve System

PDF | The Story of Monetary Policy

PDF | Once Upon A Dime

Disclaimer
The views expressed in this post are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the position of the Federal Reserve System. Any errors or omissions are the responsibility of the author(s).