I know they are generally called “graphic novels” these days, but I still prefer “comics.” And I am happy to announce that Smurf comics are due to be released in August.

Smurfs #1 Smurfnapper is a “sampler comicbook from Papercutz with a full story in anticipation of the new series of graphic novels” that will be launching soon.

The two comics slated to come out in August are Smurfs GN Vol. 01: The Purple Smurf and Smurfs GN Vol. 02: The Magic Flute.

Smurfs GN Vol. 01: The Purple Smurf (Available August 25, 2010)

“This debut volume introduces us to the Smurf village, and features two Smurf-tastic stories. In ‘The Purple Smurf,’ when a strange fly bites one of the Smurfs, a full-on epidemic develops in the Smurf Village. After being bit, a Smurf turns purple, his vocabulary is reduced to one word (‘gnap!’), and he goes berserk! The purple Smurf runs amok, biting other Smurfs on the tail and turning them purple too! It’s up to Papa Smurf to find a cure. ‘The Flying Smurf’ features the inspiring tale of a Smurf with a dream – to fly!”

Smurfs GN Vol. 02: The Magic Flute (Available August 25, 2010)

“In Medieval times, a court jester named Peewit, who lives in a king’s castle, discovers a flute that makes those who listen to it dance until they collapse from exhaustion. When a thief steals the flute, Peewit must search out the makers of the flute, the Smurfs, to make an even more powerful flute to combat the thief in this wildly funny tale.”

You can pre-order both of the Smurf Graphic Novels from TFAW.com.