Click here to see all of the current Great Graphic Novels nominees along with more information about the list and past years’ selections.

You Brought Me the Ocean by Alex Sanchez and Julie Maroh
DC Comics
Publication Date: June 9, 2020
ISBN: 9781401290818
Jake Hyde grew up in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico with an overly protective mother and his best friend, next-door neighbor Maria who has an unrequited crush on him. Jake is pretty sure of this, so he tries to keep some distance between them since he cares for her. But Jake secretly has a crush on Kenny Liu, the green-haired swim team captain who struggles with his father accepting his sexuality. Jake has another secret he is keeping from everyone: when he comes in contact with water these strange blue markings on his skin begin to glow. As he searches for his identity, will he have the power to face it head on?
This is a fresh new look into the superhero Aqualad. You Brought Me the Ocean gives the reader teenage drama and life dilemmas with a dab of superpowers. This book gives us a diverse ensemble of characters, with each facing struggles and predicaments to overcome. The reader will understand and empathize with Jack as he searches to discover who he is and what he stands for. Recommend it to fans of comics like Runaways by Rainbow Rowell and Wonder Woman, as well as fans of tv shows like Black Lightning and The Umbrella Academy.
—Shaira Rock