8 of the Best New Graphic Novels for Kids

I buy everything Shannon Hale writes on instinct, but it was the charming art of Marcela Cespedes that made me take a closer look at Dream On. All middle schoolers tend to feel like the world is ending, but Cassie is having a particularly hard go of it. Her family doesn’t have much money or time to spend, her privacy is nonexistent, and her friends seem to be moving on. Will a mysterious sweepstakes solve all her problems, or will it take more than money to make things feel right again?

Opossums and neurodivergence? Be still, my heart. This sweet creature and her gaggle of friends populate Cosmic Bog, a place they constantly improve through zany adventures and a commitment to inclusion. This graphic novel offers suggested fidget breaks between chapters and a glossary to support learning vocabulary. Opal’s book is a definite don’t-miss.

There is a current explosion of interest in anime, and by extension, manga, among the young people in my life. A lot of the series that my elementary students are asking for are just a tad too mature to be included in our catalog, so I’m always on the hunt for age-appropriate manga. Sheeta’s Little Big World is a slam dunk. Sheeta is small and lives in a hollowed-out log with loving, protective neighbors. When he decides to brave the ants, weasels, and other dangers to see the outside world, the adventure begins.

In a world where Dog Man books are traded like currency in elementary schools everywhere, I am thrilled to share another series full of adventure, fun, and pet puns. Readers young and old will fall for Sparky and Pugsley, best friends and partners in a world of thrilling danger they barely understand. Will they prevail in the search for the Golden Bones? Join the adventure and find out for yourself.

Raina Telgemeier is a star among middle grade students. In my library, her books are checked out by students of every gender and age, and kids jostle to see if anything with her trademark style is left when it’s time to check out books. This is why Facing Feelings is such a cool addition to her collected works. Pictures, early drafts of projects, and notes from Raina herself show how the author became the powerhouse she is today. Get ready to inspire young cartoonists and storytellers with this one.

I love the Science Comics series, and this one is particularly prescient in a time when we are working hard to tell the difference between physical and digital things. Pair lessons on coding or website verification with this exploration of how this stuff really works. The funny, screwy tone helps to demystify the technology being discussed and reinforces the important message that these machines are not magic, but were invented by humans.

Zoe, Mariana, and Everly are business partners and best friends, so when Zoe joins a soccer team, their dynamic gets a little wobbly. Soccer is amazing, and the team captain wants to be her friend! But can she balance her new pastime with her most important relationships? And will she have time to finish her homework? Endlessly relatable, sweetly rendered, and perfect for that tricky spot between early readers and middle grade books, The Do-Over is worth your time.