Fables isn't a graphic novel. I have a single issue of Sandman around here that ain't a graphic novel, but comic book. 100 Bullets was in comic form, as is Greek Street.
So yeah, spare me the 'It's not a cookie, it's fruit and cake!' defense. Six of one, half dozen of another. Only Vertigo writers are required to actually ace a creative writing class before hand, and keep control over their limited stable of characters.