15 Graphic Novels that will make reading time fly by for kids!
It's more important than ever that parents nurture a desire for independent reading in their children. Few things work better to keep young readers engaged than the titles found on this comprehensive list of graphic novels for kids...
Ghoul School by Devlin DeGuise
Combining traditional prose, audiobooks, and graphic novels, Ghoul School is a hi-lo book series that uses publishing techniques proven to keep striving readers glued to the page...
- Creepy music and Hollywood sound effects highlight a streamable podcast for a read-along experience kids love
- Low page counts reduce intimidation for reluctant readers
- Big fonts let readers turn pages faster than normal so they build confidence as the story unfolds
- Age-appropriate horror improves focus as new scares lurk around every corner
- Beautiful artwork on every page helps visual learners build context as the story unfolds
- Unexpected endings inspire children to continue with the series so this positive experience becomes the foundation of a reading habit
Join DeGuise on his mission to keep kids reading.
Grab the first book in this series, a delightful story about an out-of-control, man-eating plant called Venus Child Trap.
Smile by Raina Telgemeier
A regular entry on most elementary school reading lists. Smile is the charming story about Raina's struggles with braces while trying to navigate the turbulent waters of middle school. The author's art does such a good job portraying the emotions of adolescence that most children see a piece of themselves in this story.
Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Part dog, part human, all funny!
A popular series of graphic novels for kids that has captured the hearts of young readers. The series follows the adventures of Dog Man and his quirky animal friends as they fight to protect their city.
A great option for young readers, these books feature a wild cast of characters with strong personalities that kids love. The vivid illustrations will pull children to the age. The laugh-out-loud lines and unique storytelling will keep them engaged.
Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
A New York Times bestseller. From Scholastic's line of graphic novels, Amulet is a series that follows two siblings who hope the discovery of a magical amulet will empower them to save their mother. They must traverse dangerous lands and battle powerful enemies if they're to save those endangered by the forces they encounter.
Kids love the fluid and cinematic artwork that Kibuishi uses to bring this epic story to life. Librarians everywhere often point new readers toward Amulet as it is an exhilarating journey that always leaves children wanting more. Buy it here.
The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier and Douglas Holgate
A unique middle-grade series set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by monsters. The story follows Jack Sullivan and his friends as they battle zombies, robots, and other creatures of the night.
With funny characters, outrageous plot twists, and inventive monsters, this adventure offers a fast-paced plot that will keep kids turning the page. Like Ghoul School, this is another example of a series that combines the best of prose and graphic novels. Buy it here.
El Deafo by CeCe Bell
A graphic memoir, this critically-acclaimed book is the story of a girl who loses her hearing after a bout with meningitis.
The emotional tale helps kids better understand the struggles faced by those with disabilities. Buy it here.
Hilo by Judd Winick
Hilo is a series of graphic novels written by Judd Winick that is designed to engage and captivate young readers. It follows the story of a smart boy named Hilo who has mysteriously landed on Earth from another planet. With the help of some new friends, Hilo must explore a world of magic if he is to uncover the truth of his origin.
These wild adventures star brave characters who use intelligence to overcome obstacles. The dynamic action sequences bring the story to life in a way reluctant readers will enjoy. Between the captivating plot and unique visual elements, Hilo promises an entertaining read for all grade levels. Buy it here.
New Kid by Jerry Craft
A Newberry Award winner, New Kid is the captivating story of Jordan Banks, an African American teenager who struggles to adjust when starting at a new school. While navigating the social dynamics that come with being one of the few kids of color in a predominantly white school, Jordan eventually learns to embrace those things that make him unique.
This book is a great example of realistic fiction for middle school kids interested in a more mature read. It's one of the best graphic novels about the power of friendship, perseverance, and finding one's place in the world.
InvestiGATORS by John Patrick Green
A truly unique series about two secret agent alligators who solve mysteries and fight crime. Young kids love the wacky humor and zany adventures found in these graphic novels.
Runaways by Brian K. Vaughan and Adrian Alphona
This collection is about teenagers who discover their parents are members of an evil group of supervillains. An action-packed adventure, this is a great series for kids who love Marvel movies as it gives them a chance to experience the MCU through the eyes of kids just like them.
Bad Guys
These Bad Guys are trying to do some good in the world.
From stopping an evil villain's plan to take over town to helping save animals from extinction, the characters in this graphic novel series refuse to accept their choices must be made for them.
The graphic novels in this series combine humor and action with lessons on friendship, teamwork, and morality. With each read, kids will laugh out loud while being inspired to make a difference in their own lives. Buy it here.
The Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell
A story that follows a diverse group of kids who use creativity to turn a bunch of ordinary boxes into a kingdom of their own.
Sell's artwork creates an immersive world of vibrant colors that will engage visual learners, but it's the exploration of positive themes like friendship and self-expression that will keep new readers moving from page to page.
The Witch Boy by Molly Knox Ostertag
A touching graphic novel about a middle school boy named Aster who dreams of being a witch despite being told that only the girls in his family are allowed to practice magic. With the help of some new friends and a mysterious teacher, Aster journeys to discover the secrets of the magic within him, while fighting to overcome the strict expectations of his family.
This series offers readers a glimpse into the complexities of traditional gender roles in society while encouraging self-discovery and courage in the face of adversity. Buy it here.
Zita the Spacegirl
The story of a brave young girl whose curiosity leads her to embark on a cosmic quest across the universe. With these books, young readers experience thrilling escapes, giant robots, and talking animals--all while exploring the mysteries of space. Buy it here.
Class Act by Jerry Craft
A companion book to New Kid, this beloved graphic novel follows 8th grader Jordan Banks, an African American student who attends a fancy boarding school on scholarship. While navigating the challenges of a new school, Jordan discovers a love for comic books and drawing, a revelation that helps him to find his footing and make new friends.
This is a great pick-up for any child who is struggling to find their place in a new environment. The book also includes some trivia quizzes, a full-color comic book, and interactive puzzles. Buy it here.