Printz honoree Maria Van Lieshout (Song of a Blackbird) joins us to discuss her YA graphic novel debut, receiving one of the top honors in young adult literature, and the importance of writing about resistance in uncertain times.
Tag: Graphic novels
Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2026) Feature Review: Almost Sunset Wahab Algarmi
Hassan is juggling school, soccer, gaming, and the long daily fasts of Ramadan, a month his classmates barely understand. As he moves through busy days and spiritual nights, he finds support in his family and community, from pre-dawn meals to evening gatherings at the mosque. But keeping up with homework, friendships, and his faith proves challenging, and Hassan often wonders if he can balance it all. Throughout the holy month, he works to find his groove and discover what Ramadan truly means to him.
This graphic novel offers a thoughtful portrayal of a teenager navigating the balance between family expectations during Ramadan and the everyday demands of school, sports, and peer relationships. The bright, expressive illustrations and succinct text, often complemented by wordless panels, create a compelling and visually engaging story perfect for reluctant readers.This title will appeal to readers who enjoy realistic stories about navigating school, family, and cultural traditions. Teens who are curious about or connected to Muslim experiences will especially appreciate Hassan’s honest and relatable journey through Ramadan.
Readers who enjoy this book might also like Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero by Saadia Faruqi and Once Upon an Eid edited by S. K. Ali and Aisha Saeed. Fans of sports-centered stories with heart may also appreciate Power Forward by Hena Khan.
–Katie B.
Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2026) Feature Review: Dan in Green Gables by Rey Terciero illustrated by Claudia Aguirre
- Dan in Green Gables
- by Rey Terciero
- illustrated by Claudia Aguirre
- Penguin Workshop
- Publication Date: June 3, 2025
- ISBN: 9780593385579
Fifteen-year-old Dan Stewart-Alvarez is abandoned in rural Tennessee with his grandparents by his free-spirited mother. His grandparents are strangers, and to make matters worse, his abrasive grandfather does not seem to approve of anything Dan does – or is. Dan’s queerness in a small Southern Baptist town causes problems for others in his orbit, but Dan is always unabashedly himself, and he slowly finds a way to build a safe, supportive community at Green Gables.
Labelled as a “modern reimagining” of Anne of Green Gables, this graphic novel highlights the familiar teen theme of feeling out of place and unwelcome in a new environment. Dan and Anne have similar upbeat attitudes and outlooks on life. Familiarity with the classic novel is not required in any way, however, as Dan is a fully formed character with his own motivations and struggles. The artwork is clear and expressive in this graphic novel, providing an accessible path to universal themes. The inviting cover, colorful layout, and expressive art will welcome reluctant readers.
Graphic novels with similar tones and themes include Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, We Could Be Magic by Marissa Meyer, Fitting Indian by Jyoti Chand, I Shall Never Fall in Love by Hari Conner, and The Deep Dark by Molly Ostertag.
–Emily Williams
Check out our interview with Rex Ogle on Graphic novel reimagings!
Check out our post, I’m stealing the idea, but I wanna make it my own! here.
Check out our post, “If you’re going to run away, run away to a library.”: Interview with Rex Ogle here.
Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2026) Feature Review: Family Force V: Book 1 by Matt Braly
- Family Force V: Book 1 by Matt Braly
- Image Comics
- Publication Date: June 10, 2025
- ISBN: 9781534340336
Maise is a normal teen to her friends at school, but she’s secretly part of an alien-fighting team legacy known as the Moon Troopers. Since being a superhero is a family business, Maise never asked for this responsibility and isn’t sure she wants it. When a tragedy occurs, Maise needs to sort out her priorities and find a way to keep everyone safe while being true to herself.
Multiple alien kaiju battles and a zippy Power Rangers-like fighting force make for an visually dynamic and action-filled graphic novel. The art is clear and bright, with expressive characters and a good balance of text. Manga and comic book readers, fans of Disney’s Amphibia (by the same creator), and those looking for easy-to-follow action stories will most appreciate this title.
Comparable titles include Into the Heartlands, a Black Panther graphic novel that also features the complexities of super-families and lots of action, and Miles Morales: Suspended by Jason Reynolds, which shows teens struggling with responsibility and important decisions.
–Emily Williams
Great Graphic Novels (#GGN2026) Featured Review: Absolute Wonder Woman, Volume 1, by Kelly Thompson and Art by Hayden Sherman
- Absolute Wonder Woman Volume 1
- by Kelly Thompson
- Art by Hayden Sherman
- DC Comics
- Publication Date: August, 12, 2025
- ISBN-13: 9781799505303
Absolute Wonder Woman by Kelly Thompson takes a spin on the traditional Wonder Woman comics. Diana of Themyscira, Wonder Woman, did not grow up in Themyscira, but was instead exiled to the underworld when she was a baby. There, Diana was able to hone her skills and learn magic for the day she would emerge into the world stronger than ever. When she returns to the world, right away she must save Gateway City with her trusty steed Pegasus from monsters.
This story provides an action packed storyline, while also setting the stage for future installments of the comic. Absolute Wonder Woman still provides a familiar character for current fans, and has the potential to draw in new fans with its new darker storyline. It is a quick moving story that will keep readers engaged and wanting to learn more about this new Wonder Woman. The art and colors do an excellent job of amplifying the darker world. Also, the comic provides a great mix of mythology, superheroes, and just an overall fun story.
Absolute Wonder Woman would be great for readers, who have enjoyed the other DC Comic Absolute Series such as Absolute Superman and Absolute Batman. Fans of Spirit World by Alyssa Wong will enjoy this title because of the beautiful artwork, and fast paced storyline. Finally, for readers who enjoyed Teen Titans: Raven this would be a great fit for them because it takes a different spin from the original tale, and has some darker undertones.
– Jessica Duong
Great Graphic Novels (#GGN2026) Featured Review: We Could Be Magic by Marissa Meyer, illustrated by Joelle Murray
- We Could Be Magic
- by Marissa Meyer, illustrated by Joelle Murray
- Feiwel & Friends
- Publication Date: June 3, 2025ISBN-13: 978-1250379399
Tabi lands her dream job as an intern at Sommerland, her favorite theme park that comforted her during her parent’s divorce. Hoping to be a princess character, she soon learns that the part has strict beauty standards, mainly that all the princesses are thin. With the help of her new crush, Tabi courageously tries to defy the standards, keep her magic alive, and show that not all princesses are one size and all can be beautiful.
Meyer brings vulnerability and humor together to show how Tabi and her fellow co-workers confront real struggles, like body image, self-worth, and societal expectations. The dialogue in the story between Tabi and others shows resilience as she challenges the very real appearance issues that teens struggle with today. While the story discusses a heavy topic, the bright colors and contrasts help to bring the magic of theme parks alive and make any theme park lover smile. Murray is able to show the emotions on the characters’ faces, so teens can see when Tabi is happy or frustrated.
Teens who love theme parks, magic, and summer love would enjoy this book. Teens who enjoyed books that explore body image like Cheer Up: Love and Pompoms by Crystal Frasier or hara’s Embrace Your Size: My Own Body Positivity would find this read enjoyable. Teens that want more of the new romance, new place, and self discovery like Roaming by Mariko and Jillian Tamaki would also like this read.
– Jessica Duong
Great Graphic Novels (#GGN2026) Featured Review: Love, Misha by Askel Adan
- Love, Misha
- by Askel Adan
- First Second
- Publication Date: June 10, 2025
- ISBN-13: 978-1250866219
When non-binary teen Misha reluctantly agrees to a road trip with their estranged mother Audrey, they are not sure what to expect. Things quickly spiral from awkward bonding attempts, to full-on magical misadventure when a wrong turn lands them in the enchanting but dangerous Realm of Spirits. In this new fantasy town, mystical creatures and dreamlike landscapes become the backdrop to a much deeper journey. As Misha and their mom try to find a way home, they slowly begin to trust each other and come to a mutual understanding of their relationship.
Aden’s storytelling is rich and nuanced. This is especially true in the depiction of the dynamic between Audrey, a mother who still sees Misha as their daughter, and Misha, a young adult learning to stand firm in their identity. Alongside the emotional stakes, the fantastical adventure the characters go on is fun, exciting and full of well developed side characters. Visually, the novel stuns with earthy oranges and browns, evoking a world that feels both magical and intense. This is a poignant, spellbinding read filled with heart, magic, and the bittersweet truths of growing up.
Those looking for more graphic novels that mix elements of fantasy with identity might try, The Girl from the Sea by Lee Knox Ostertag and The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen. If you want more adventure in a magical, semi dangerous world then read, The Well by Jake Wyatt and Choo.
—Rachel Adams
Great Graphic Novels (#GGN2026) Featured Review: The Other Side of Tomorrow by Tina Cho and Deb J.J. Lee
- The Other Side of Tomorrow
- by Tina Cho and Deb J.J. Lee
- HarperAlley / HarperCollins
- Publication Date: November 12, 2024
- ISBN-13: 9780063011076
Two young North Korean teens’ lives become intertwined, when they meet crossing the river into China. Yunhu plans to reunite with his mother who crossed earlier, while Myunghee is an orphan traveling alone. Both hope for a better life and a chance at real freedom. But to achieve that they will have to cross the borders of at least two countries and face numerous dangers, including swimming across crocodile infested waters and enduring a harsh prison camp.
The story alternates between Yunhu and Myunghee, giving voice to each of their unique perspectives, while revealing the indoctrination and oppression they experienced in their native country. Lee’s muted but expressive illustrations match the lyrical tone of the text. Readers will be inspired by the perseverance needed to successfully traverse the difficult journey of the Asian Underground Railroad. An author’s note provides additional background information about the North Korean government and life north of the DMZ.
Teens who enjoyed Hyun Sook Kim’s memoir Banned Book Club may be interested in this story about her northern neighbors. Give this to readers who find inspiration in books like Eoin Colfer’s Illegal or Jenny Sanchez Torres’ We Are Not From Here, which feature the arduous journey faced by many refugees seeking a better future.
—Heather Christensen
Great Graphic Novels (#GGN2026) Featured Review: A Bite of Pepper by Balazs Lorinczi
- A Bite of Pepper
- by Balazs Lorinczi
- Margaret K. McElderry Books
- Publication Date: August 26, 2025
- ISBN-13: 978-1665970464
Much to the disdain of her mother, young vampire Pepper Mint has not yet earned her immortality and vampire wings by settling down with a partner. To Pepper that’s not much of a problem, she’d rather grab her board and do kickflips on a halfpipe than experiencing the banality of immortality at endless dinner parties. That is, until she meets an artsy young lady named Ana at the local cafe. Now the two of them have to navigate parental expectations, gnarly skateboard tricks, and a business plan to launch a skate brand. Would you rather live forever or live it up now with your new crush?
A Bite of Pepper is a funny, unique, fresh-feeling graphic novel. The limited but colorful palette of blacks, greys, and pinks really pop off the page. The plot has the pleasant familiarity of young romance and growing up, then takes a left turn with a surprisingly in-depth (and entertaining!) B plot about launching a skate business. It lives up to all the fun that a book about a queer skateboarding vampire promises.
Get this in the hands of any teens who love a humorous queer love story with a little sportiness mixed in such as Heartstopper, Check, Please!, or Blades of Furry.
–Nick Taylor
Great Graphic Novels (#GGN2026) Featured Review: Soma by Fernando Llor and Carles Dalmau
- Soma
- by Fernando Llor and Carles Dalmau
- Simon & Schuster – Oni Press
- Publication Date: February 25, 2025
- ISBN-13: 978-1637156124
Maya, a comic book artist, is struggling to find joy in her life, personally and professionally. She’s found herself in the middle of a creative block and is constantly feeling stressed about deadlines, feeling like she is no longer doing the work she loves, and trying to navigate advice to her best friend on how to get a date. In the mix of all of this, Maya gets a surprise visit from an extraterrestrial visitor, Soma, who is searching for her help in stopping a life-altering alien invasion. Maya must decide how to save the work and how to rewrite her own story.
Soma is a funny, action-packed science-fiction explosion with intergalactic visitors and space-made weapons. While this book is marketed as an adult title, it holds strong teen appeal with a relatable main character who is struggling with a creative crisis and, especially, with the alien invasion being stopped by a rather lovable alien and his human sidekick. In partnership with the unique storytelling from Fernando Llor, the vibrant colorways created by Carles Dalmau help support the emotions within scenes and expand the plot as the characters progress through the story.
Soma will likely find home in the hands of teen readers who are craving their next sci-fi adventure. Hand this graphic novel to readers who enjoy the space battles of Star Wars and Star Trek. If you have readers looking for the apocalyptic alien invasion vibes, consider giving them Why on Earth: An Alien Invasion Anthology edited by Rosiee Thor and Vania Stoyanova, Undergrowth by Ricky Lima, or We Light Up the Sky by Lilliam Rivera. Readers who enjoy the pure science-fiction aspect of this book would likely enjoy watching or reading Ready Player One, Stranger Things, or The Darkest Minds.
–Abbey Pignatari