On Monday, Alterna Comics founder Peter Simeti announced that the independent comic book publisher will introduce a new line of 80-page giant books for just $4.99. This would be in addition to the company’s line of standard-sized “cat-spanker” comics which run between 99 cents and $1.99.

There are no details on the titles or genres that will be a part of the new 80-page line, but Simeti noted that he expects to release one of these books per quarter. It also stands to reason that Alterna’s use of newsprint paper stock is a big part of what makes that $4.99 price point possible- and profitable.

Do you think there is a viable niche for graphic novel-sized books at the same cover price as some 22-page Marvel books? Or is a heftier paper stock critical to graphic novels despite the $15-$20 they cost? Let us know in the comments!