Graphic novels should be read like any other type of novel. Since there are usually speech bubbles and multiple scenes on a page, a reader has to get used to the format and sequence. When reading a graphic novel, always read left-to-right from top to bottom just like you would any other novel. Graphic novels are usually designed to help you figure out what to read next easily, even though there may be multiple panels on the same page. Through the use of images, readers get a sense of the scene and can understand which images and text correspond to one another to help them follow the story.
Japanese graphic novels, also known as "manga," should be read right-to-left. This is because Japanese is written right-to-left, so the panels are laid out in a similar fashion. The "front" of the book is where the "back" of an English graphic novel would be. Many volumes of manga include a page that explain how to read them. You'll be a master of reading manga in no time!