Graphic Novels

Do you remember the way you used to draw as a child? Most of us lose that as we grow older. Making Comics is a master class in the comic form. Barry, a powerhouse creator of strange and beautiful comic books, guides us through an intensive process to get the creative juices flowing and remind us of the courage we had as younglings. I was pleasantly surprised at my own daring as I worked my way through the book. - Ivy

I’ve been a fan of G. Willow Wilson since the first Kamala Khan Ms. Marvel comics came out. Wilson is now blasting off into space, creating a world reminiscent of Saga, with intrigue, political chess games, and daring escapes across the galaxy. Christian Ward’s art is full of candy-jar colors, bringing this space epic to vibrating life. This is perfect for the comic book fan who wants to get into stories outside of the superhero genre. - J Gallo

Former military cadet, survivor, and lesbian Kate Kane stalks a new criminal High Madame that could only have come out of Gotham in Elegy, one of the best superhero stories I've ever read. Greg Rucka's art is nothing short of beautiful, with breathtaking action sequences and humanizing flash backs, and Williams' story will keep you hooked. - Jocelyn

As someone who also gets hurt a lot, wears a lot of purple, and struggles with depression, I relate to Clint Barton very strongly. He's a regular guy (as regular as an ex-circus performer and Avenger can be) who gets thrown into really ridiculous situations. His hare-brained solutions will keep you hooked from page one. - J Gallo

I’m a big fan of Archie Bongiovanni’s work, especially their short and sweet A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns. Bongiovanni’s art is spunky and cute, and they’ve got a great sense of humor. This collection will resonate really well with my generation of 20-something queer disasters (of which I am a proud member). Gift it to your friend who just came out, who’s been out and proud as long as you’ve known them, or anyone under the LGBTQIA+ rainbow who needs a good laugh about the dating scene. - J Gallo

I am so very excited for this heartfelt graphic novel from Kobabe, discussing gender, family, and one person’s struggle to find their identity. E has such a lovely art style and such a personal way of speaking that one can’t help but be swept along. Chances are, you know someone who identifies somewhat differently on the gender spectrum than as either straightforwardly him or her even if you don’t realize it, and I look forward to Kobabe’s work adding to the stories that normalize these experiences. - Jax

As the younger female sibling of the heir to the throne of Wakanda, Shuri has always lived in her brother’s shadow. But when T’Challa gets lost on a space mission, Shuri’s life gets complicated. She’s much more at home in her lab, but her brother’s absence pulls her out of her comfort zone and into the swirling miasma of African politics and Wakandan tradition. Nnedi Okorafor masterfully navigates Shuri through gender politics, sibling dynamics, and the role of modern monarchies. Leonardo Romero’s art is reminiscent of the bright colors of 1980s comics, with a sketchy, expressive style. Wakanda feels real, as do the struggles and triumphs of its people. - J

The Handmaid’s Tale is the gift that keeps on giving. As a book, it’s set the standard for feminist dystopian literature, and the recent TV show has brought Offred’s story to life on the screen, reminding us how relevant her story still is. Enter this new graphic novel, with astoundingly graceful line work and watercolor images by artist Renee Nault, who creates a juxtaposition of beauty and brutality that will sit with readers for a long time to come.      —Jessica

Coates, the writer for the most recent and critically acclaimed run of Black Panther among many other things, tackles the Star-Spangled Avenger and boy what a ride this was. America is still reeling from a Hydra invasion that nearly stamped out freedom the world over, and though Cap wants nothing more than to be the hero, it’s not that simple. But trouble’s brewing that’s got Russia written all over it, and standing idly by was never Steve Rodgers’ strong suit. I can’t wait to see what happens next! - Jax

Part cooking show, part alien abduction story, all adorable. Riess takes 2 storylines that have been done to death and smashes them together to bring new life to them both. The art is colorful and charming without being garish, and each character (human and not) are interesting and exciting. A great read for all ages! - J