Kids Graphic Novels

This thrilling supernatural graphic novel about a teen girl who just found out she descends from a long line of werewolves is a perfect blend of action and heart. Olivia Stephens weaves a tale of loss, growing up, and family, both found and biological. With art that jumps off the page and a sweet, sapphic romance, fans of Mooncakes and Spill Zone will want to sink their teeth into this fantasy adventure. —Molly

Not only is this little hardcover educational, but it’s so CUTE. Even the passing appreciator of nature will love this adorably illustrated guide to our six-legged friends. Elise Gravel uses her charming art and handwritten text to create an approachable guide that feels more like sharing notes with a very smart friend than reading lists of facts. As a big fan of bugs, I may be biased, but this book is a must-have for the future entomologist in your life. —MJ

A cranky chicken and an optimistic worm are unlikely pals in this hilarious series starter about friendship and learning to love people as they are. Cranky likes being cranky and doesn’t want any friends, but after saving a worm named Speedy, it would seem she is stuck with one. The illustrations are laugh-out-loud funny, and I have never felt like a chicken was a kindred spirit until now. Perfect for fans of Bad Guys and the Narwhal and Jelly series. —Ivy

This little book is full of so much magic, good-hearted lessons, and delicious snacks you won’t be able to resist taking these cats home with you! Squash and Ginny are on the hunt for ingredients to make a potion for never-ending snacks. Along the way they make new friends, learning a lot about themselves and each other. The art is adorable and the storyline was fun, but what I most enjoyed were the lessons of kindness and responsibility these kitties learn, making this a perfect addition to any child’s library. —Jax

Available in paperback

Despite never before having met the relatives she’s staying with in Key West, Turtle wastes no time taking charge. She shows tenacity and fearlessness as she joins her cousin’s babysitting business, and even secures a job on a fishing boat. The artwork is decidedly tropical, and my favorite part is the legend of the pirate’s treasure. This graphic novel reminded me that sometimes all you need is a change of scenery to come out of your shell. — Celeste

Have you ever been friends with a ghost? Majorie is friends with several, a nd Eliza is set on photographing one, even if everyone thinks it's weird. The setting reminds me of a pastel Stranger Things and captures a feeling I remember from eighth grade, of growing up where there are new friends but being a kid is not that far behind. Delicates is a reminder that you don’t have to feel like a middle school ghost; there are always people who see you. —Celeste

Katie can’t afford to go to summer camp, so she decides to take on odd jobs from her neighbors in order to raise the money to join her friends. She begins catsitting for her neighbor upstairs, whose cats—ALL 217 OF THEM—are absolutely hilarious... and possibly evil? This was a delightful read that had me chuckling all the way through, and it would be perfect for fans of superheroes or cats (like me!). —Eli

Feline hero Agent 9 of the Super-Secret Spy Service is on a mission to keep the world safe from maniacal villains. King Crab has a diabolical plan to melt the polar ice cap and build a massive water park. Can Agent 9 save the day? Lots of fast action, humor, and suspense. Readers who like Baby Mouse or Mighty Robot should give this book a try. —Noreen

Newbery medalist Jerry Craft does it again. This companion to New Kid focuses on Jordan as well his friend Drew who, unlike light-skinned Jordan, faces othering based in colorism. How Craft takes serious subject matter and makes it hilarious remains a mystery to me, but I was literally laughing out loud while reading, just like I did with New Kid. A great choice for fans of the first installment, school stories, socially conscious books, and those who—like me—love to laugh! — Stephanie

Lora, an occult-obsessed 12-year-old, doesn’t want to grow up. She feels left behind as her friends trade make-believe for makeup. Then she befriends Alexa, a ghost from the ’70s. Lora’s coming-of-age story is quirky and relatable, while Alexa’s is touching and poetic. The drawings are energetic and whimsical, with panels bursting with life and margins decorated with doodles. This magic-infused tale is an excellent choice for readers who loved The Witch Boy, Ghosts, or The Okay Witch. — Molly