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This will be a popular series for elementary and middle school age kids who love humor, science fiction and fun.
A delightful romp through a magical world of fangs and flannel sure to keep young readers on their (twinkle) toes.
This colorful story where the true monsters are the humans will appeal to young graphic novel fans who enjoy cartoony styles and fantasy elements. A suggested purchase for collections where graphic novels circulate well.
A “perfect ride” of a graphic novel that shows that there really is something special about horse friends.
A welcome addition to any graphic novel collection, Invisible skillfully explores the negative impact of stereotyping while also offering an entertaining and spirited reading experience.
PREMIUM
Neverlanders
Create room on the shelf for this new fantasy graphic novel with roots in the classic, filled with action-packed battles and splendid depictions of a steampunk world.
PREMIUM
The Elusive Samurai, Vol. 1
A solid, if not spectacular, new historical manga from the creator behind “Assassination Classroom.” Worth considering for collections where ancient Japan or action manga are popular.
PREMIUM
Blackwater
For fans of Heartstopper and Teen Wolf, the blend of horror, sly humor, and an intriguing cliff-hanger will ensure readers return for the next volume. A recommended purchase for all YA graphic novel collections.
PREMIUM
Mia in the Mix
These new books will be welcomed by fans of the original “Cupcake Club” series as well as by any tweens looking for sweet, but realistic, stories about kids trying to form lasting friendships.
PREMIUM
Into the Portal
A solid book that doesn’t do much to push boundaries or show readers anything they haven’t seen before. Despite this, it’s still worth a look for libraries seeking to engage readers who are into Minecraft or other dungeon crawl games.
For fans of Rick Riordan–style mythology stories, these feature plenty of action and diverse characters.
PREMIUM
Zatanna: The Jewel of Gravesend
An interesting story with a killer boardwalk setting and strong artwork that’s tailor-made for newcomers. While the characterizations get muddled, it’s still worth a look for collections where graphic novels about magic are popular.
Silly, sweet, and peppily paced, Mimi is great for early readers or as a read-aloud.
PREMIUM
Summertime Rendering Volume 2
An easy recommendation, particularly for reluctant manga readers. A turbulent ride, and a blast from cover to cover.
PREMIUM
Summertime Rendering Volume 1
An easy recommendation, particularly for reluctant manga readers. A turbulent ride, and a blast from cover to cover.
Themes in this year’s stellar works of fiction for children and teens.
When Langston Dances by Kaija Langley, The Cost of Knowing by Brittney Morris, and The Black Panther Party: A Graphic Novel History by David F. Walker and Marcus Kwame Anderson are among the titles honored. Created by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association and sponsored by School Library Journal, the Youth Literary Awards celebrate the diversity of the Black experience.
PREMIUM
The Forest Beckons
A fun camp adventure for those who adore talking and clothes-wearing animals!
For readers who enjoy a mix of historical fiction, science fiction, and heart-pounding suspense.
PREMIUM
Cat + Gamer Volume 1
Told through slice-of-life vignettes, this comedy manga might be light on belly laughs, but it is big on smiles. This adorable book should be a first purchase for collections serving fans of cats and gaming.
For fans of “Harry Potter” and other fantasy works, as well as “The Hunger Games,” who want something similar, this is a safe bet.
PREMIUM
Steve L. McEvil
Sure to be a crowd-pleaser with fans of Lincoln Peirce’s “Big Nate” or Scott Seegert’s “Vordak the Incomprehensible.” Readers will eagerly await further adventures from Steve and his classmates.
PREMIUM
Cloud Town
The emotional story of two friends overcoming personal obstacles against the backdrop of a rollicking giant monster adventure will be a hit with fans of Hannah Templer’s Cosmoknights and Tillie Walden’s On a Sunbeam.
PREMIUM
Tin Man
An oddly compelling twist on The Wizard of Oz with a heavy dose of sibling drama. Good for larger graphic novel collections.
PREMIUM
Growing Pangs
Although it has too many subplots, this colorful graphic novel has a lot to grab the attention of many young readers. Fans of Raina Telgemeier and Kayla Miller are sure to enjoy it. Recommended for most collections.
PREMIUM
Kenzie’s Kingdom
Readers will want Kenzie and Gavin to succeed as they become stronger, more confident versions of themselves. Give this to fans of “Cleopatra in Space,” “The Baby-Sitters Club,” “All’s Faire in Middle School,” and “Zita, the Spacegirl.”
PREMIUM
Crumbs
This adorable web comic turned full-length graphic novel would be a fantastic addition to middle and high school collections. It has the perfect combo of fantasy, realism, and romance.
PREMIUM
Star Knights
Hopping and soaring, Star Knights is a fantasy with lots of heart, bursting at the seams with plot, and should prove a delight with fantasy lovers and cute cartoon fanatics.
A perfect pick for readers desiring a fantasy adventure that breaks the mold when it comes to lore and characters.
PREMIUM
Monster Hunter
Fiction for young people has no shortage of self-professed “losers” who find their confidence and talent, but this story is more interested in reducing, not building up.
PREMIUM
The Doors to Nowhere
Start with book one, if you must, or take the character Violet’s advice and read other books.
PREMIUM
Little Monarchs
Meticulously researched biology and environmental science make this a unique addition to any library serving teens.
PREMIUM
The Real Riley Mayes
The simple and endearing artwork with soft colors will fly off library shelves and be a hit for readers who enjoy Raina Telgemeier’s books and Jennifer Holm’s “Sunny” series.
PREMIUM
Lemon Bird: Can Help!
Sure to be a hit among young readers starting to get into graphic novels, especially fans of Pea, Bee, & Jay and Owly. Recommended purchase for public and school libraries.
A great story and art plus interesting characters make for an excellent beginning to what will hopefully be a rich and exciting epic adventure.
With all of the charm of Raina Telgemeier and Lucy Knisley’s works, this title will be enjoyed by voracious fans of coming-of-age graphic novels. But the specificity of having to stride two cultures and feeling like an outcast in both will especially resonate with readers from bicultural communities.
Readers looking for the outer space high jinks and gentle humor of Brockington’s Catstronauts and the imaginative and fantastical worldbuilding of Andrews’s This Was Our Pact need look no further than this laugh-out-loud tale of the first cat in space.
A fun and engaging story for middle grade readers looking for a graphic novel with a bit of mystery.
PREMIUM
Across a Field of Starlight
A worthy addition to collections where sci-fi titles such as On a Sunbeam, Spill Zone, and “Paper Girls" are sought out.
PREMIUM
Meet the Super Duper Seven
The perfect blend of quirky and clever, this graphic novel for beginning readers will also appeal to young comics fans with a sophisticated sense of humor.
PREMIUM
Dino Trouble
Turning pages is how young readers will play this game of reality-bending survival, with a teased sequel on the way.
PREMIUM
Rabbit Chase
A moving graphic novel that touches on identity and cultural legacy, and representation that is sure to impact young readers.
PREMIUM
Sorceline
Hand to kids who are obsessed with magical creatures. A good purchase for graphic novel collections.
A charming retelling for fans of the classic novel and middle school–themed graphic novels.
PREMIUM
Amazona
Canizales presents teens with many compelling visual and emotional moments, but a simplistic search for justice leaves the story feeling unfinished. Perhaps that incomplete quest is a reality on a societal level as well.
PREMIUM
Squire
An action-packed graphic novel in a beautifully depicted world, sure to inspire and engage young audiences.
Readers will feel compelled to start their own journals, gardens, and hikes thanks to these outdoorsy animal friends.
PREMIUM
Sir Ladybug
This funny friendship story is an excellent offering for young readers learning to navigate graphic novels independently. A recommended purchase for most collections.
A fresh companion to Jerry Craft’s New Kid, this graphic novel belongs on shelves in school and libraries everywhere.
PREMIUM
Hoggy Went-a-Courtin’
This colorful friendship story is an approachable introduction to graphic novels for early readers. A recommended purchase for most collections.
Accessible layouts and guidance make this superhero digest for little ones a gentle introduction to superheroes and comics in general.
PREMIUM
Winged Heroes: For All Birdkind
A good choice for those who enjoy the “Science Comics” series or are ready for the next step after “InvestiGators.”
PREMIUM
Quest for the Unicorn Horn
Fun characters, a fast-paced adventure, and plenty of science facts make this a wonderful addition to libraries looking for more action-packed graphic novels that are not superhero titles.
PREMIUM
Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom
This successful adaptation is a first purchase for all middle grade graphic novel collections and is sure to fly off the shelves.
PREMIUM
The Subtle Knife Graphic Novel
A worthy addition to the series, brought to life with stunning art.
PREMIUM
Fearbook Club
A safe bet for younger readers looking for a fantasy adventure with diverse characters.
PREMIUM
Girl on Fire
The origin of Lolo’s powers may be a little fuzzy, but #BlackGirlMagic meets Miles Morales makes this is a recommended choice for all teen graphic novel collections.
PREMIUM
Rosen Blood: Vol. 1
Stella’s weak progression as a character is vexing; it’s even more frustrating to see the other vampires behave so handsy around her, as if imprisoning her in their mansion as their maid wasn’t debasing enough.
PREMIUM
Slip
With themes ranging from mental health to self-discovery, this art-infused text will entice graphic novel fans and art students and leave them wanting another installment of Jade’s story.
PREMIUM
Secret Passages
This first step into a vulnerable life story is packed with heart, humor, and deceptively cranky commentary. Audiences not put off by the slow pace or Lenoir’s standoffish shell will be rewarded with the rich inner life of an ‘80s kid absorbed in pop culture, creepy woods, and the maddening contradictions of growing up.
PREMIUM
Batter Royale
This fun, engaging graphic novel will have readers eager to discover the winner of the contest. Budding pastry chefs will be inspired to follow suit and prepare delicious desserts of their own.
PREMIUM
A Mountain of a Problem
One warm cause has many effects for the plants and animals of the world, including a call for readers to help. A solid stand-alone tale.
Whether or not kids are familiar with the series, they’ll find this an easy reader full of escalating talents and smiles between two can-do foxes.
PREMIUM
Up and Down: And Other Stories
The fuzzy pair once more exhibit behavior to emulate as they resolve minor differences, withhold judgment, and meet each other where they are. Fans of the series will be as delighted as newcomers.
PREMIUM
Mermaids vs. Unicorns
The lore and cast of Phillipps’s escapist fantasy continue to expand while delivering more laughs and adventure that fans of the previous two books will love.
The complex yet effortless mixture of tween angst with superhero subplots is a recipe for success for returning readers and those familiar with superhero tropes.
Humor carries three tight-knit friends underwater and over mountains; new and returning readers alike will be charmed.
PREMIUM
Fitz and Cleo Get Creative
Good humor between imaginative siblings leads to a number of artistic projects that young readers, series fans and newcomers alike, will want to emulate.
PREMIUM
The Curse of the Evil Eye
Focusing on protagonists who combine childlike imagination with developing maturity, these thoughtful, bilingual adventures will appeal to returning readers.
PREMIUM
The Lost Daughter
Fans of Henrietta will find satisfaction in this grand finale to the epic series. Those who love Kazu Kibuishi’s “Amulet,” J.C. Phillipp’s “Pacey Packer,” and Jeff Smith’s “Bone” series will appreciate these books, though they will want to start at the beginning.
PREMIUM
Sci-Fu: Vol. 2; It Takes 2
This series is too savvy to suffer a sophomore slump and too pretty for readers to look away, but just make sure to begin with the first book.
Pet owners will recognize their own four-legged friends in these humorous news reports. Though lovers of the series will be rewarded, newcomers will easily take to this one, too.
PREMIUM
Lowriders to the Rescue
This bursting medley of community and planetary mindfulness is as colorful as it is inventive. Best experienced after the earlier books.
The story’s pacing is well done, resulting in a very dramatic story where there never seems to be a dull moment on any page. While shonen manga narrative unfolds can be very predictable, there isn’t any of that in this book
PREMIUM
Radium Girls
Of particular interest to upper level readers as a landmark case in the history of workplace safety legislation, but what shines here most brightly are the voices and characters of the women involved.
PREMIUM
The Adventures of Robo-Kid
A good addition to any picture book collection, especially where superhero stories are in demand.
PREMIUM
The Flower Garden
A simple story and a sweet visual treat that promises to be an enjoyable read for both eager and hesitant beginning readers.
Don’t be fooled by the cute package; despite the adorable trappings, this tender tale packs an all too timely environmental message.
Though high on the adorable factor, this is also a powerful, stirring example of the devastating impact of climate change.
Readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories that focus on friendship will appreciate Heart’s story, which subtly and naturally offers positive diverse representation.
Middle grade readers will be utterly absorbed by this heartfelt graphic novel that explores the complexities of family dynamics, body image, and self-acceptance.
This beautifully rendered tale of searching, mystery, and danger will appeal to fantasy readers who enjoy stories of adventure and discovery.
Three librarians who serve teens and tweens discuss the removal of Maus from schools in Tennessee and other graphic novel challenges.
The post Maus and Other Graphic Novel Challenges | Roundtable appeared first on Good Comics for Kids.
PREMIUM
Just Roll with It
For fans of Raina Telgemeier’s Guts, this charming graphic novel about coping with anxiety and learning not to be overwhelmed by fear is a recommended purchase for middle school library shelves.
PREMIUM
I Really Dig Pizza!: A Mystery!
A notable new series addition to any beginning reader collection. Ideal for fans of Mo Willems’s “Elephant & Piggie” series and Salina Yoon’s “Duck, Duck, Porcupine!” books.
A fine additional purchase, this one will appeal to kids who like their fantasy light, fluffy, and relatively danger-free.
PREMIUM
Animal Stories
The formalism of Chris Ware meets the mystique of Shaun Tan in this idiosyncratic, animalistic enigma.
Seeing Frieren’s character development as she tackles the concepts of life and death is an especially pleasing experience. A beautiful read from cover to cover, this is highly recommended.
PREMIUM
Housecat Trouble
A charming, humorously silly, and unexpectedly touching story about the power of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity. Fans of Stephanie Cooke’s ParaNorthern: And the Chaos Bunny A-hop-calypse and Dave Scheidt’s Mayor Good Boy will speed through this one to see how it ends.
Readers who love high-stakes quests will fly through this one. A recommended first purchase.
Middle grade readers will be thoroughly engaged by this terrifying graphic novel that blends folklore and mystery to create a moody treat for horror fans.
Wonderfully creepy, this tale will appeal to a wide range of readers.
PREMIUM
Crushing
Though this one may find a better home in the adult graphic novel section, it’s nevertheless a lovely, elegant read. Artfully rendered and universal in its appeal, it’s ideal for introspective teens and new adults anxiously navigating the possibilities of love and forging a life alone, experiencing the special breed of loneliness that comes with being on your own for the first time.
PREMIUM
Athena the Brain
A quick and fun read that is sure to circulate; readers will eagerly await future graphic novels. Recommended for most graphic novel collections, especially where the prose novels have a following.
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