W&L Professor Chris Gavaler Publishes New Book The professor of English authored a book titled “The Color of Paper,” which was released in February.

By Abby Harlan
March 23, 2026

Chris Gavaler, professor of English at Washington and Lee University, published a new book, “The Color of Paper,” on Feb. 6.

Published by The Ohio State University Press, the book uses comics to explore how two-dimensional images can communicate customary concepts of racial classifications. Gavaler also examines the relationship between image backgrounds and the culturally constructed concept of whiteness, drawing on quantitative research into how readers perceive these images. His goal is to show that changes in publishing practices and coloring technology have shaped both how race is depicted and how audiences understand those depictions.

Gavaler’s research suggests that racial representations in comics reflect deeply embedded cultural assumptions that reinforce power structures, particularly in societies where white experiences and perspectives receive greater attention. By examining the visual form and material qualities of comics, Gavaler works to challenge these assumptions and encourage more critical thinking about race — both in comics and in the broader social contexts where these dynamics play out.

Gavaler cites Nathaniel Goldberg, W&L professor of philosophy with whom he has co-authored three previous books, as a tremendous aid in helping shift the focus from historical to formal analysis.

Gavaler, who has served as a member of the W&L faculty since 2010, has authored or co-authored nine books and several one-act plays, including five winners of the Pittsburgh New Works Festival. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in English education from Rutgers University and an MFA from the University of Virginia.