Clint McElroy, Carey Pietsch, Griffin McElroy, Travis McElroy, Justin McElroy
[isbn]
The McElroys' brilliant graphic novel adaptation of their beloved podcast (with fantastic artwork by Carey Pietsch) has finally caught up to my favorite arc, and it was well worth the wait! In the vein of Groundhog Day or Palm Springs, our heroes have found themselves caught in a time loop on their most recent (Wild West-inspired) quest, and we begin to see a number of glimpses into the larger series' plot. I laughed, I teared... (read more) Recommended by Madeline S.
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Leigh Bardugo and Dani Pendergast
[isbn]
Fans of the Grishaverse (and its Netflix adaptation of Shadow and Bone) should be sure to pick up Bardugo’s first graphic novel entry to the series: Demon in the Wood, finally illuminating the backstory of the complicated, compelling villain the Darkling. Illustrated by fantastically talented newcomer Dani Pendergast, this prequel will serve as an interesting entry point for new Grishaverse readers as well. Recommended by Madeline S.
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Ben Hatke
[isbn]
It’s the intergalactic team-up you’ve been waiting for! Jack and Zita have both had their share of adventures, but it will take all of their combined experience, cleverness, and heart (not to mention their friends!) to take down the army of giants and screeds knocking at Earth’s cosmic door. Recommended by Madeline S.
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Katie O'Neill
[isbn]
Return to the world of the Eisner Award-winning The Tea Dragon Society in this standalone companion! When Rinn finds a sleeping dragon in the woods, they learn that new friends let you see your world through new eyes; and after his long enchanted slumber, Aedhan discovers that even the most winding road can lead you where you’re meant to be. Recommended by Madeline S.
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Clint McElroy and Griffin McElroy and Justin McElroy
[isbn]
The second volume of this graphic novel adaptation of the McElroys' much-beloved D&D podcast grants +2 to all stats and delivers the goods. Longtime listeners and first-time readers alike are sure to be delighted by Carey Pietsch’s joyous rendering of this classic train mystery — featuring, as all good train mysteries do, a secret moon base (with no dogs allowed), a mystical being known as Garfield the Deals Warlock, questionable physics, and... (read more) Recommended by Madeline S.
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Terri Libenson
[isbn]
Middle school is tough enough as part of a close-knit clique. But when your best friend texts you that you’ve been voted out? That’s world-shattering. It’s the last day of seventh grade, and Jaime is alone — or is she? Maybe she has more friends than she thinks — friends who don’t need her to be anything but Jaime. Recommended by Madeline S.
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Clint McElroy and Griffin McElroy and Justin McElroy
[isbn]
Dungeons and dragons and gerblins, oh my! I’m a big fan of the McElroy family’s D&D/live play podcast, and its first graphic novel adaptation is everything I hoped for and more. The McElroys' clever storytelling and Carey Pietsch’s charming illustrations give new life to this sweeping fantasy adventure without sacrificing the comedy or heart that make the podcast so wonderful. +10 to merriment, -5 to time management (listen, you’re not going to... (read more) Recommended by Madeline S.
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Marcus Sedgwick, Thomas Taylor
[isbn]
In the wake of her parents’ passing, Scarlett is determined to carry on the family monster-hunting tradition (aided by her trusty butler, Napoleon, and their one-of-a-kind roadster, Dorothy). With its coterie of delightful characters and fantastic creatures, this is a marvelous series starter! Recommended by Madeline S.
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Gene Luen Yang and Leuyen Pham
[isbn]
Gene Luen Yang and Leuyen Pham have created a moving romantic comedy, with a wise script and exceptionally expressive art. This book is an exquisite treat from two masters of the medium. Recommended by Keith M.
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Ari Stocrate
[isbn]
How insane is it that the world's woes have driven me to seek shelter in a graphic novel about a stretchy dragon who lives in a swamp with a witch, hordes enchanted pacifiers and iPod nanos, and loves canned legumes? This was not on my 2023 bingo card. Anyway, her name is Bean. She is me and I am her. Recommended by Stacy W.
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Bill Watterson and John Kascht
[isbn]
The Mysteries is an unsettling and eerily familiar fable about a world that loses direction. The images are gorgeous, wonderfully evocative, and just a little disturbing. This is a book to reread many times and to put its message into your own frame of reference and keep it close to your heart. Recommended by Marianne T
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ND Stevenson, Nate Stevenson, Noelle Stevenson
[isbn]
I will read anything by ND Stevenson. This book gives you the warm fuzzies and restores your faith that your queer love is out there. A must read. Recommended by madmythandy
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Kate Leth
[isbn]
Kate Leth’s delightful look at mall culture in the early 2000s has a lot to say about when to let keep your guard up, when to let it down, and the problems that come from misjudging that balance. Recommended by Keith M.
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Aaron Blabey
[isbn]
A hilarious look at the precarity of fame, this action-packed book is purr-fect for fans of cute cat videos and big explosions. Litter-ally, something for everyone! Recommended by Keith M.
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Linda Medley
[isbn]
Castle Waiting is an incredible comic series. It follows a motley cast of characters who have — through one way or another — found themselves at the eponymous castle. They include a retired plague doctor, a scamp of a nun, a stoic blacksmith, the frazzled stork-headed caretaker, and a woman on the run. Their lives together and their pasts apart make up the rich story of Castle Waiting. While the setting and characters are... (read more) Recommended by Edme G.
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K. O'Neill
[isbn]
I adore this book. K O'Neill's artwork is absolutely stunning, with beautiful watercolor sunsets and vibrant desert landscapes. I love O'Neill's ability to create whimsical and cozy magical worlds that stand out from other fantasy books. This lovely and layered story also has subtle and sweet queer and disability representation that does not focus on trauma, but instead focuses on the love and care the characters have for one another. I cannot... (read more) Recommended by Sarah B.
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Tyler Feder
[isbn]
In this graphic memoir, Feder perfectly captures the small, surreal moments involved in the death of a loved one and the sad, awkward, and messy parts of adapting to life without them. Anyone who has ever lost a parent will deeply relate and this is the perfect book to help anyone 12+ feel less isolated in their grief. Recommended by Sarah B.
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Graham Annable
[isbn]
Want to traumatize your kids the same way Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark traumatized you? Of course you do. It's only fair. This bone-chilling anthology is sure to keep your kids (and even you) up at night. I love imagining the next generation of kids reading these stories at sleepovers and seeing who chickens out first. Ghoulishly good fun! Recommended by Stacy W.
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Mackenzi Lee
[isbn]
I am a huge fan of Bucky Barnes, and I absolutely love that Mackenzi Lee drew from his comic origins as a teen sidekick. The book flashes back and forth between young Bucky just coming into his role as a covert operative, and his later life as the Winter Soldier. It's a nailbiter of an adventure with a side of heart... and heartbreak. Recommended by Lesley A.
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Jen Wang
[isbn]
A cute wholesome fairytale! The Prince and the Dressmaker will charm its way into your heart and restore your faith in humanity. Jen Wang created a world of wholesome growth that I wish we lived in. Recommended by Lindsay P
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Zach Weinersmith and Boulet
[isbn]
A magnificent middle reader graphic novel retelling worthy of the source material. The great hall? A great treehouse. Our heroes? Kid-conquerors of suburbia. Our monster? A joyless adult. Like the old epic, I was hooked from the first poetic kenning. Recommended by Sarah R.
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Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang
[isbn]
Time-travel stories can be very tricky to get right, but in my opinion, Paper Girls blows it out of the water. It delivers strong female characters, a rich and compelling narrative, plus stunning visuals reminiscent of 80s genre films. So good!
Bookseller Mia B. Recommended by Mia B.
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Jen Wang
[isbn]
Prince Sebastian wants to wear dresses — intricate and glamorous ones made by his royal seamstress and new best friend, Frances — but he is worried about what his father, the King, will think. The Prince and the Dressmaker is a heartwarming story about father and son relationships and the beauty of being your true self. Recommended by Sarah B.
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Tui T. Sutherland and Mike Holmes
[isbn]
I am hooked on this series, and I’m so excited to see this next chapter, now that the dragonets have to go to school together. Some of my favorite characters, now in one of my favorite settings. Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Kao
[isbn]
A heartwarming exploration on what it's like to be a newly-out transman — with a fantasy twist! Recommended by Haven W
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Jeff Kinney
[isbn]
I started as a bookseller 20 years ago, not long before Greg Heffley first appeared on the scene. In the time since, it would seem that neither of us has matured, but we’re both still in bookstores. I think he’s having more fun, thö . Recommended by Keith M.
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Jennifer Dugan and Kit Seaton
[isbn]
Esmy’s life is pretty good until her parents abruptly announce that they’re moving across the country. Now she has to adjust to a new school — oh, and there’s maybe a death witch coming for her, too. This fast-paced graphic novel delivers both angst and action. Recommended by Keith M.
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Jonathan Hill
[isbn]
For anyone who hides their true and timid self, who wants to fit in, who wishes they weren't a misfit, this book is for you. Especially if you're convinced you must be an alien or a mutant or maybe a whole other species from all those happy and normal people around you, this book is for you. Or if you're just a nerd, and you like seeing the world through different lenses, this book is for you. Recommended by Doug C.
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Kayla Miller
[isbn]
I loved Click, so I can’t wait for another story about Olive. This time, she’s trying to do too many things at once. I feel the same way, but about trying to read too many books at the same time! Anyway, I’m starting this one right away. Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Aaron Blabey
[isbn]
If you’ve seen The Bad Guys movie, then you’ll no doubt be overjoyed to have more things to make you go Arrrgh! Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Bree Paulsen
[isbn]
The sequel to the utterly charming Garlic & the Vampire from last September follows our main character, Garlic, as she flies to the Magic Market to find the right ingredient for a vegetarian blood substitute for the friendly Count. Bree Paulson’s palette of warm autumn colors and lots of humor make this a great slightly-spooky-but-not-too-scary read for ages 8 and up. Recommended by Kim T.
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Dan Santat
[isbn]
An incredibly touching and heartfelt adventure story about loss, grief, the importance of friendship, and animal rescue. This is perfect for any budding marine biologists and all animal lovers. Impossible to not enjoy! Recommended by Eric L.
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Kat Fajardo
[isbn]
Sue hates to be the center of attention. She’s refused to participate in a public quinceañera. But her mother has other plans. Kat Fajardo’s debut graphic novel shows how difficult it can be to balance the different interests in a family, even an extremely loving one. Recommended by Keith M.
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Nadia Shammas and Sara Alfageeh
[isbn]
This was a cover buy (because w o w). But Aiza snagged me by the collar and had me laughing real fast. Her friends had me next, and with them I was lost under sweeping cyan skies, alongside epic Jordanian architecture. This story is somehow ancient and fresh; a challenge and a delight. It has it all. Recommended by Hannah W.
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Harmony Becker
[isbn]
Harmony Becker has infused the story of the residents of a share house for foreign exchange students in Japan with an astonishing amount of emotional complexity. This book is the product of so much skill and care; it’s a true masterpiece. Recommended by Keith M.
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Roshani Chokshi
[isbn]
I can’t wait to see how Joe Caramagna and Anu Chouhan adapt Roshani Chokshi’s incredible fantasy! This time I get to watch Aru’s quest to save her friends and family from a time-stopping demon. Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Ari North, Ariella Adler
[isbn]
Starry-eyed, pure, queer love that'll break your heart and then mend it back together. The animation is similar to popular web comic turned phenomenon, 'Lore Olympus,' and seems painted with strokes of heartache and passion. So, so, beautiful. Recommended by Stacy W.
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Nadja Spiegelman
[isbn]
Diversify your folktale repertoire and check out this graphic novel adaptation of Blancaflor, the Latin American story of a super-powered daughter of an ogre who falls in love with a prince her father wants to eat. Endearing as it is profound, Blancaflor should be required reading. Recommended by Stacy W.
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Trung Le Nguyen
[isbn]
Every page of The Magic Fish is a feast for the eyes and heart. Smart, powerful, and lovingly done. Recommended by Hannah W.
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Marjorie Liu, Teny Issakhanian
[isbn]
Zuli must brave a world she doesn’t remember in this adventure story rich with Marjorie Liu’s skillful pacing and Teny Issakhanian’s wonderfully expressive illustrations. Recommended by Keith M.
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Amy Kim Kibuishi
[isbn]
Perfect for fans of Pilu of the Woods or the Amulet series by author Amy Kim’s Kibuishi's husband, Kazu Kibuishi, Realm of the Blue Mist is the first book in a new graphic novel series: The Rema Chronicles. Realm of the Blue Mist introduces us to Tabby Simon, a young girl seeking the mystery of what happened to her father who died after investigating a tree releasing an unexplained mist in her neighborhood. When Tabby... (read more) Recommended by Kim T.
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Tillie Walden
[isbn]
Hope you like to cry. I don't think I've ever actually sobbed over a book before, and I can't accurately explain why this one made that happen. I feel like if I tried to explain it in words it would just come out as incoherent babble. Pencil in a good cry and read this. Recommended by Stacy W.
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Phu Vuong, Isa Enriquez
[isbn]
An accessible sword and sorcery in the vein of Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Dragon Prince. This original tale will appeal to audiences across age boundaries and without a saturated magic system or strong focus on messaging. Adventure and action in its purest form. I need an animated series IMMEDIATELY. Recommended by Stacy W.
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K. A. Applegate and Michael Grant and Chris Grine
[isbn]
Any ’90s kid can attest to the iron grip The Animorphs had on readers of our generation. Now, the whole squad, including the original author, is back, this time as a graphic novel series! Got a kid of your own now? Introduce them to The Animorphs and relive this action-packed saga filled with superpowers, alien invasions, love, war, and loss. Recommended by Stacy W.
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Maggie Tokuda Hall and Lisa Sterle
[isbn]
Clever as it is harrowing, Squad is a powerful, feminist thriller with enough bite to contend with adult works in the same genre. Though its tone bears some semblance to teen favorites Riverdale and Mean Girls, make no mistake. Squad is wholly unique and good-for-her horror at its best. Sink your teeth into this one! Recommended by Stacy W.
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Tui T. Sutherland and Mike Holmes
[isbn]
I'm so excited for a new volume in the Wings of Fire series! This time Sunny has some big decisions to make as she faces her destiny. I can't wait to see where Tui T. Sutherland and Mike Holmes take the story next! Recommended by Matt K.
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Jason Reynolds and Jason Griffin
[isbn]
Jason Reynolds’s poem about living through the tumult of 2020, about the experience of Black America as life was changing in some ways and maddeningly unchanging in others, is made all the more powerful by being in dialogue with Jason Griffin’s breathtaking art. Recommended by Keith M.
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Kiyohiko Azuma
[isbn]
Yotsuba and her dad, Koiwai, have a special place in my heart and on my bookshelves. Every character is so funny and loveable, and Azuma's attention to background and texture — from soft pancakes to traffic lights to stray leaves on the street — makes this series feel especially tangible and cozy. His story and style fully embody the manga's tag line, “enjoy everything." (Particularly this volume's chapter, "Rocks"... I cried a little.) Recommended by Hannah W.
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Seaerra Miller
[isbn]
My favorite paranormal investigator is back for a second book! Mason and Iris are celebrating Halloween by going to the cemetery, hunting for monsters, and entering their school’s Halloween costume contest. When they notice someone who looks just like Mason, they are on the case to find out where they came from. This adventure is funny, spooky, and beautifully illustrated. Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Robin Robinson
[isbn]
Portland author Robin Robinson wrote and illustrated this fantasy graphic novel. Adventure awaits goblin sisters Pella, the thrill-seeker, and Bix, the reluctant adventurer. Stunning, fantastical illustrations take the reader on a trip though the enchanted forest, a wondrous land filled with demigods and monsters, alongside the compelling Pella and Bix. Perfect for ages eight and up. Recommended by Kim T.
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Megan Wagner Lloyd, Michelle Mee Nutter
[isbn]
Maggie’s 10th birthday is coming up and she is super excited to get a dog (who wouldn’t be!). Sadly, she discovers she’s allergic to anything with fur or feathers, and breaks out in hives with her new pup. Maggie’s experiences are relatable, and her resilience is a good lesson for anyone who finds themselves allergic to just about anything. This semiautobiographical graphic novel is perfect for ages eight and up. Recommended by Kim T.
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Jeff Kinney
[isbn]
I’m old enough to remember when book #1 came out; I was a bookseller at the time (I really am old!) and so it’s no surprise to me that the series is still going strong so many years later. Now that there’s a TV show, too, Greg really is a big shot (you probably shouldn’t tell him, though). Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Dav Pilkey
[isbn]
I love Dave Pilkey’s newest series, which really focuses on how fostering creativity can help us in all aspects of our lives. Also, it shows just how much fun it is to make — and read — your own comics. Recommended by Matt K.
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Wendy Xu
[isbn]
Written and illustrated by the illustrator of Mooncakes, one of our bestselling teen graphic novels, Wendy Xu immerses us in this gorgeously illustrated fantasy middle grade graphic novel. We follow Sophie, a 12-year-old water witch who is sent to live relatives to train and audition for the Royal Magic Academy. When a spell goes wrong, she meets Lir, a water dragon in human form lost in the spell and together they work to get Lir back... (read more) Recommended by Kim T.
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Susie Yi
[isbn]
These cats want snacks. Infinite snacks. That seems like a tall order, but they also have magic and an ability to think (and land) on their feet. They’ll need both on this quest. Recommended by Keith M.
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Jaimal Yogis, Vivian Truong
[isbn]
Grace just moved to Hong Kong and she’s at a new school with no friends. The last thing she needs is a newly hatched dragon, but that’s what she’s got. She was chosen to care for it for a reason, and she better figure it out fast because dark forces are gathering… Recommended by Keith M.
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John Lewis and Andrew Aydind and Nate Powell
[isbn]
First you march, then you run! That’s what John Lewis did after more than five years as a leader in the civil rights movement, after being the youngest speaker at the march on Washington, after getting beaten and arrested for his nonviolent resistance. Lewis then ran for Congress and became a powerful voice for justice from the seat of government. Run follows the great John Lewis in the years following the events of the award-winning and... (read more) Recommended by Doug C.
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Bill Watterson
[isbn]
I whiled away many happy hours reading Calvin and Hobbes as a child. The comics are hilarious and delightful, but also something more. In retrospect, they were my first literary introduction to the absurdity of existence and the humor that makes that knowledge tolerable. I know that sounds like a bit much, but hear me out. There’s Calvin’s anguished snowman sculpture entitled, “The Torment of Existence Weighed Against the Horror of... (read more) Recommended by Leah B.
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Chris Colfer and Jon Proctor
[isbn]
Venture back into the Land of Stories in this first graphic novel from Chris Colfer and Jon Proctor! The dangerous Dwarf Forests are the only refuge for scoundrels, fugitives, and anyone else unwanted by fairy-tale society. Goldilocks is one such renegade, and when the Charming brothers target her forest home, she’ll do whatever it takes to protect it. Recommended by Madeline S.
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Molly Knox Ostertag
[isbn]
Morgan Kwon keeps her life in boxes: family troubles here, social life there, and a future where she’s free to be herself in the distance. Things start to change when a mysterious girl from the sea splashes into her life and helps her realize that you don’t have to wait to be yourself. Beautifully illustrated, this sweet graphic novel of first love and self-acceptance is the perfect addition to a summer bookshelf. Recommended by Sarah R.
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K. O'Neill
[isbn]
The Tea Dragon series is beloved by the Powell’s staff, and it won’t take you long to see why. The new volume is just as emotive and magical as we’ve come to expect, beautifully showing characters becoming and accepting who they are. Recommended by Keith M.
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Sophie Escabasse
[isbn]
A charming graphic novel about a family of urban witches, Witches of Brooklyn beautifully balances enchantment and everyday reality, humor and seriousness, and sweetness and spookiness. The art is super cute and the writing is sharp! I loved how gracefully this story handled some difficult topics like separating art from the artist, how to handle major loss, and accepting one's emotions without shame. Overall, it was a fantastic series... (read more) Recommended by Ariel K.
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Alice Oseman
[isbn]
Ridiculously cute. This comic perfectly captures that sweet pain of having a crush. You know what I mean? You cringe because it's relatable but also smile because it's adorable. The story takes it's time so you can bask in the emotions the main characters go through. Fair warning: Like a lot of good stories, there's a cliffhanger at the end. But, I think it's worth it. Recommended by Rose H.
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Kat Leyh
[isbn]
An endearing story full of lovable outsider characters, this graphic novel contains a perfect balance of realism and magic. In this book, appearances are not what they seem: the evil witch may or not be a sweet and eccentric old lady, and Snap herself may be more magical than she ever thought. I love the diversity and inclusivity in this book: the characters are so fully dimensional, and the themes of acceptance and friendship left me with all of... (read more) Recommended by Ariel K.
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Dav Pilkey
[isbn]
In a year where everything has seemed chaos, silly, endearing Dog Man and his crew come to the rescue with a giggle-packed graphic novel about the power of love to set the world right. Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Jeff Kinney
[isbn]
Scary stories are an endless source of fun for kids (and who are we kidding, for all of us!), but when they’re coming from the mind of Rowley Jefferson? Prepare yourself for more shrieks and ghoulish giggles than you can shake a broomstick at. Recommended by Matt K.
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Ann M. Martin and Gabriela Epstein
[isbn]
When you're used to being the creative one, what happens when the new girl in class seems even more creative than you? Adapted by Gabriela Epstein, this brand-new Baby-Sitters Club graphic novel is a lively page-turner with loads of heart. Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Nnedi Okorafor, Vita Ayala, Leonardo Romero
[isbn]
Hey Kids! Comics! There's way too much serious business in the business of comics! Here is a story by the incomparable Nnedi Okorafor, fun for kids... and grown-ups, too. Recommended by Doug C.
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Jonathan Hill
[isbn]
Award-winning cartoonist Jonathan Hill contrasts surprising humor with the desolation of a ruined landscape and the longing of three Vietnamese American siblings searching across the country for their missing mother, eight years after the big Cascadia earthquake. With themes of violence, environmentalism, and family, Odessa is much more than a page-turner — but what a page-turner! Recommended by Gigi L.
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Dana Simpson
[isbn]
My third-grade daughter frequently quotes dialogue from Phoebe and Her Unicorn, followed by wild giggles, which is recommendation enough for me! Simpson’s graphic novel series about a little girl and her best friend, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, always manages a perfect balance of silly and utterly sincere, and this newest volume is no exception. Expect your child to laugh, sigh, and ask you for a unicorn. Recommended by Rhianna W.
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Jeff Kinney
[isbn]
Life is never boring for erstwhile adolescent Greg Heffley, and this new round of adventures involves a less-than-pleasant RV park, bad weather, and possible calamity. Diary fans will eat up the Heffley family's cascade of problems, and Greg's hilarious — if bad-mannered — take on the highs and lows of life. Recommended by Matt K.
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Raina Telgemeier
[isbn]
I can’t recommend this book enough! Raina shares her own childhood experiences with fear and anxiety through warm illustrations that identify levels 1-10 in concrete ways, and provide helpful tools and methods for coping with stress. Great for ages 10 and up. Recommended by Kim T.
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Jerry Craft
[isbn]
A companion to Newbery and Coretta Scott King American Library Award winner, The New Kid, Class Act follows Jordan’s friend Drew Ellis, an eighth-grader at Riverdale Academy Day School. This highly anticipated graphic novel for ages eight and above take the reader through Drew’s experience of working 10 times harder than his privileged peers for the same opportunities, while dealing with prejudices and microaggressions from his... (read more) Recommended by Kim T.
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Seaerra Miller
[isbn]
This graphic novel from Portlander Seaerra Miller is gorgeous! The full color brings the quirky and fun illustrations to life. Mason Mooney is a wannabe paranormal investigator who is often outshined by the Paranormal Society led by heartthrob Trent Reilly. Mason finally lands a haunted house case that just may be his ticket to the fame he knows he deserves. Can he and new friend Iris find out who or what is haunting her older sister? This book... (read more) Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Akira Himekawa
[isbn]
Zelda enthusiasts will be thrilled to know they can relive the adventure through a beautifully illustrated manga, now with both parts complete in one volume. Ocarina of Time is one of the best installments of the Zelda series, and with this translation to text, none of the Hyrulian magic is left behind. Perfect for die-hard Zelda fans, or the fantasy manga lover in your life. Recommended by Alex Y.
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Hope Larson
[isbn]
Larson’s new graphic novel about rocking out and navigating middle school relationships is heartfelt and fun. Perfect for any kid trying to figure out how to get through middle school without sacrificing what makes them special or brings them joy. Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Laura Knetzger
[isbn]
Rhino-B and Stag-B are best beetle buddies and have amazing adventures in the bug world. They have a close run-in with a frog, escape a giant, help a spider in her library, and even explore some spooky caves. I love that no matter what problems arise, they solve them together and stay friends. Such a cute collection of stories. Perfect for fans of the Narwhal and Jelly books. Recommended by Rose H.
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ND Stevenson, Nate Stevenson, Noelle Stevenson
[isbn]
Noelle Stevenson tells us heavy things in an accessible way — her struggles with self, with talent and creativity and drive — and as any successful memoir will do, we empathize, feel her pain, and celebrate with her. She is a remarkable artist. I look forward to all that is yet to come. Recommended by Doug C.
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Gene Luen Yang
[isbn]
I was so excited when I heard that one of my favorite graphic novelists was writing about basketball, and Dragon Hoops does not disappoint! Yang chronicles the Dragons' varsity basketball season as they pursue the state championship, mixing in his own experiences writing and learning to love the sport. If you love graphic novels and/or basketball, add this one to your TBR list. Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Karen Schneemann and Lily Williams
[isbn]
Every young person (with or without a uterus) should read this graphic novel. Sasha makes three new friends when every woman's nightmare happens: she gets her period while wearing white pants. The story that follows is everything I wish all friendships had. I love all the diversity in this book and how it doesn't shy away from serious topics including endometriosis. I wish I had this book growing up. Recommended by Rose H.
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Ann M Martin and Katy Farina
[isbn]
BSC graphix fans — and their little siblings — will tear through Karen’s Witch, the first in a cute new series with easy-to-read text and large, colorful panels for younger readers. Karen is convinced that her next-door neighbor is a witch. Will she save the neighborhood from evil, or find out that appearances can be deceiving? Recommended by Rhianna W.
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Dav Pilkey
[isbn]
The eighth installation in this fantastically wonderful and very popular series finds our hero facing Barky McTree Face and 22 Supa Angry Psychokinetic Tadpoles along with our pals Petey the Cat and Li’l Petey. An epic adventure! Recommended by Kim T.
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Jen Wang
[isbn]
Jen Wang’s newest graphic novel for the 8+ crowd is so good! It’s about a new friendship and the ups and downs that come with it. Christine and Moon have a lot of differences, but they grow close when Moon and her mother move into Christine’s family’s guest house. This one hits all the emotional notes of childhood friendship perfectly. Recommended by Jennifer H.
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JP Coovert
[isbn]
If you're interested in making comics like Dog Man by Dav Pilkey or Smile by Raina Telgemeier, this is a great guide. It goes over basic supplies, scripting, art techniques, and even has a simple project for printing your own comic. This guide is geared toward children, but as an artist, I enjoyed reading it myself! Recommended by Rose H.
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Nathan W Pyle
[isbn]
This small collection of strange comic strips is quietly hilarious. I found myself grinning over and over as I read through. Completely unique, satisfying, thoughtful, and very funny. Recommended by Doug C.
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Dana Simpson
[isbn]
Hurray! Phoebe and Her Unicorn joins Peanuts, Calvin and Hobbes, and Cul-de-Sac in the small pantheon of children’s comic strips that are mostly for adults. Or, at least for me. Recommended by Doug C.
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Melanie Gillman
[isbn]
Stage Dreams is a fun and satisfying all-ages graphic novel set in the old West, featuring LGBTQ characters, a lot of humor and love, and a bit of adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would love to read more from the creator, Melanie Gillman. Recommended by Doug C.
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Sarah Graley
[isbn]
Izzy and her best friend Eric are super excited to play the new version of Dungeon City! When Izzy just can’t wait for Eric, she starts the game and finds herself in the middle of the video game landscape! Can she save her friendship in the real world and defeat the boss battle in the video game world? A fun graphic novel for ages 8 and up. Recommended by Kim T.
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Noelle Stevenson
[isbn]
A refreshing and swashbuckling adventure, Nimona by Noelle Stevenson illustrates the importance of self-control and following your instincts. Recommended by Alex Y.
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Kirk Scroggs
[isbn]
This book is like the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, but with a superhero twist. The story follows Russell Weinwright (a tribute to Swamp Thing creators Len Wein & Bernie Wrightson), an adopted middle schooler on a quest to find out more about his parents. Plot twist: He's green, has weeds for hair, and a frog living in his arm. This book is Russell's journal. It's super funny and is full of hilarious drawings. Recommended by Rose H.
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MK Reed and Jonathan Hill
[isbn]
We love the Science Comics series! Covering topics from dinosaurs and sharks to
volcanoes and coral reefs, each volume is educational for both adults and
children. The latest offering, by
Portland author MK Reed and Portland illustrator Jonathan Hill, explains the very
complicated topics of storms, meteorology, and climate, covering how sleet is
formed, the different types of clouds, and how meteorologists predict the weather. Recommended by Kim T.
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Heather Corinna, Luke Howard, Isabella Rotman
[isbn]
This book goes over an uncomfortable topic and presents it in a way that is relatable and super easy to understand. I love that this is a graphic novel, because a lot of what happens during puberty is visual and can be the root of a lot of self-hatred. But this book reminds the reader that everyone feels weird at this age and that's OK. I wish I had this book growing up. Recommended by Rose H.
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guojing
[isbn]
Come in from the rain, curl up by the fire, and prepare to be enchanted. A lonely, adorably scruffy dog meets a kind, sweetly patient human in this beyond gorgeous wordless story. I want to wrap this book up in a warm, weepy hug, and I know this book will hug me right back. Recommended by Christine R.
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Rey Terciero and Bre Indigo
[isbn]
I loved this modern-day retelling of Little Women! Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy highlights real issues faced by women and girls growing up today. The story touches on important themes of identity and social justice — all while telling a great story. All of the girls have strong personalities, and most little women will be able to see themselves reflected in at least one of the March sisters. Recommended by Alexa S.
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R. J. Palacio
[isbn]
A beautiful story about the courage and miracle of kindness under terrifying conditions, Palacio’s graphic novel about a young girl hidden in a hayloft during WWII reminds readers that acquiescing to violence is always the weaker choice. I cried through each perfectly rendered page. Recommended by Rhianna W.
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Aron Nels Steinke
[isbn]
Local Portland teacher and Eisner Award winner Aron Nels Steinke's successful graphic novel series, Mr. Wolf’s Class, has kids lining up for the latest release! The series follows a class of fourth graders and their wonderful teacher Mr. Wolf in the everyday life of a classroom. The Mystery Club is the second in the series and follows as three best friends solve mysteries around the school, including a haunted bathroom and a missing... (read more) Recommended by Kim T.
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Jeff Kinney
[isbn]
New troubles arrive on the other side of a family inheritance for the Heffleys, once they begin fixing up their house. There are nothing like home improvement antics to drive everyone crazy, as Kinney continues doing what he does best, serving up relatable kids’ humor in a bestselling series. Recommended by Matt K.
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Molly Ostertag
[isbn]
A wonderful tale of Aster, a 13- year-old boy, and his magical community of witches and shapeshifters. Great world-building and character development make this one of my favorite all-ages graphic novels. Recommended by Kim T.
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Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks
[isbn]
Faith Erin Hicks and Rainbow Rowell team up for Pumpkinheads, a sweet and entertaining graphic novel. Deja wants Josiah to talk to the girl he’s been crushing on all these years. Two Pumpkin Patch veterans, one mad crush, and you have all the ingredients for a truly heartwarming and satisfying tale. Recommended by Mary Jo S.
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Drew Brockington
[isbn]
In this latest CatStronauts adventure, Flight Director Maisy is off on a vacation — and the rest of the cat scientists don't do so great without her. Is this really the end? Or can these felines learn how to communicate and work together to save the day? Recommended by Leah C.
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