Graphic novels are a fantastic way to spark a love for reading with in kids! With their amazing stories, wholesome lessons, and eye-catching art, these books make it easy to dive into new worlds. The stunning visuals help bring the story to life and keep readers hooked.
Perfect for grabbing attention and sparking imagination, graphic novels create a space where everyone can enjoy the magic of art and storytelling. From adults to young adults to children, each one of these books is captivating and unique to the reader!
Here are some of my top picks that I think you’re going to love.
9. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Dog Man is someone who is a part-dog, part-man, and 100% hero who solves crimes with his buddy, Li’l Petey. Created by the man behind Captain Underpants, this graphic novel is jam-packed with laughs, heartwarming moments, and plenty of action. It’s perfect for readers who love humor and adventure.
Why we recommend: Dav Pilkey’s clever storytelling resonates with children through relatable characters and subtle life lessons while encouraging reluctant readers to embrace books. This engaging series sparks creativity and provides entertainment for the whole family, making it a must-read for young readers.
8. Smile by Raina Telgemeier
This graphic novel takes you through Raina Telgemeier’s real-life experiences all the while incorporating a humorous twist. After a fall knocks out her front teeth, Raina navigates the ups and downs of middle school with a lot of heart and laughs.
Why we recommend it: Because of the fun fact that my grandfather had his teeth knocked out when he was a kid while riding his bike – I feel like he needed this series to help him feel better about losing 5+ teeth all at once. So it made it really relatable for me.
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7. The Baby-Sitters Club series by Raina Telgemeier
Many people have grown up reading the Babysitters Club! In a more modern take, Raina Telgemeier brings Ann M. Martin’s beloved series to life in graphic novel form. Follow Kristy, Claudia, Stacey, and Mary Anne as they juggle babysitting, friendships, and middle school drama with charm and humor.
The Baby-Sitters Club also has a tv series (a newer one made in 2020) that you can also watch either after or in conjunction with reading the graphic novels.
Why we recommend: I loved how Raina Telgemeier’s graphic novel adaptation of The Baby-Sitters Club series brings Ann M. Martin’s beloved characters to life with vibrant illustrations and relatable storylines about friendship, growing up, and entrepreneurship. The Baby-Sitters Club series offers a fresh and accessible take on these classic tales that both longtime fans and newcomers will enjoy.
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletter6. Hilda series by Luke Pearson
Join Hilda on her whimsical adventures in a world full of magical creatures and mysterious happenings. With its stunning artwork and captivating stories, this series is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure. And what goes hand in hand with graphic novels? Animation!
Hilda had been adapted into a super cute animated series, one I actually watched before finding the graphic novel. I loved it! I highly suggest this animated series as well!
Why we recommend: I loved Luke Pearson’s Hilda series because of its enchanting blend of whimsical adventure and Nordic folklore, following the fearless blue-haired protagonist as she encounters magical creatures and solves mysteries in a beautifully illustrated world.
5. New Kid by Jerry Craft
Jordan Banks navigates the challenges of starting at a fancy private school where he feels out of place. This graphic novel offers a heartfelt and humorous look at race, class, and fitting in, creating a space that helps showcase the struggles of finding yourself and fitting into a new place.
Why we recommend: There is something very relatable for everyone with Jerry Craft’s New Kid, a groundbreaking graphic novel that tackles issues of identity, friendship, and belonging through the eyes of Jordan Banks, a young African American student navigating life at a prestigious private school.
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4. El Deafo by Cece Bell
Cece Bell’s graphic novel is about growing up with a hearing impairment. She creates the story in a way that is both funny and inspiring. With her superhero alter ego, El Deafo, Cece tackles challenges and celebrates her unique abilities in a way that’s sure to resonate with many – with or without any hearing impediment.
Why we recommend: Through its endearing bunny characters and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by deaf individuals, this Newbery Honor book offers a unique perspective on disability, friendship, and finding one’s inner superhero.
3. Nimona by Noelle Stevenson
Nimona is a shapeshifter who teams up with a villain to stir things up in a world full of magic and mayhem. This graphic novel mixes adventure, humor, and a touch of the unexpected, making it a thrilling read. To keep up with the theme of graphic novels turned into animated series – Nimona was recently adapted into a humorous and relatable movie on Netflix that had a ton of glowing reviews!
Why we recommend: Nimona has a different and subversive take on traditional hero-villain narratives and its complex, lovable characters, this book offers a fresh and engaging read for teens and adults alike.
2. The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier and Douglas Holgate
After a monster apocalypse, a group of friends becomes some of the last kids on Earth. Their epic adventures and monster battles are packed with action and humor, perfect for readers who enjoy a good adventure story. It has a classic and resonating theme that many can relate to and feel like they are a part of the story as well.
Why we recommend: The series offers action-packed storylines, relatable characters, engaging illustrations, and a fun and imaginative read that appeals to middle-grade readers while exploring themes of friendship, courage, and adaptability.
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1. Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
Astrid finds her passion for roller derby and learns to balance it with her friendships and school life. This vibrant and inspiring graphic novel is all about discovering your passions and staying true to yourself. I love how it picked a sport that many people are not super familiar with and how it showcases the intricacy and dedication needed to pursue your passion for a sport.
Why we recommend: Victoria Jamieson’s Roller Girl is a vibrant coming-of-age graphic novel that captures the challenges of adolescence through the lens of roller derby. With its authentic portrayal of friendship struggles, self-discovery, and perseverance, this Newbery Honor book offers an inspiring and relatable story, especially for those navigating the complexities of growing up and finding their passion.
Dive into these graphic novels and embark on exciting adventures that will make you laugh, think, and dream big! Each book on this list offers something unique, whether it’s thrilling fantasy worlds, heartwarming tales of growing up, or hilarious escapades that are sure to captivate and entertain. Graphic novels are not only a fantastic way to spark a love for reading, but they also provide a visual intrigue that can make stories even more engaging and memorable.
As you turn the pages, you’ll discover vibrant illustrations that bring each story to life and characters you’ll want to follow on every adventure. Whether you’re drawn to magical realms, real-life experiences, or epic battles, there’s a graphic novel here that will grab your attention and keep you hooked. So grab a book, find a cozy spot, and let these incredible stories take you on journeys that are as imaginative as they are inspiring. Happy reading!
