Graphic Novel Roundup
We’re big graphic novel fans in my house. Here are a bunch of recent reads that I highly recommend.
Last Pick series by Jason Walz (started in 2018)
This science fiction graphic novel takes place on an earth that has been taken over by aliens. Twin siblings, one of whom is neurodivergent, protect each other and search for their parents. Suspenseful and exciting but not scary.
Shirley and Jamila Save Their Summer by Gillian Goerz (2019)
An awesome story of two kids who need each other to have the summer they want. Shirley is the neighborhood detective. Hanging with Jamila allows her to pursue her cases. Fun and friendship-centric.
Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen (2021)
A witch and her vegetable creatures have to figure out what to do when the old abandoned house isn’t abandoned any more. Brave Garlic goes to face the new inhabitant. Cute and charming.
Artie and the Wolf Moon by Olivia Stephens (2021)
Artie learns that she comes from a long line of werewolves. She must learn to be careful with her powers. But the mystery of her father remains. Will her mother finally tell her what happened to him?
The Tryout by Christina Soontornvat and Joanna Cacao (2022)
Christina is in seventh grade, and everything is harder than it was in elementary school. Her BFF is pulling away, and she’s facing racist micro aggressions from her classmates. If she and her bestie can make it onto the cheerleading team, then everything will be fixed, right?
The Aquanaut by Dan Santat (2022)
In this funny and weird book, a group of sea creatures find a suit from a deceased marine biologist. They use it to go onto land and look for the biologist’s daughter. They find her at the marine attraction that her father founded, now in need of help. An exploration of grief and environmentalism.
Squire by Sara Alfageeh and Nadia Shammas (2022)
This alternate history follows a group of teens training to be knights. Aiza has to hide her background to fit in, since her people, the Ornu, are second-class citizens in this world. Beautiful drawings take us through Aiza’s journey to come into her own.