If you’re a parent struggling to introduce your kids to reading, then you should consider getting the best graphic novels for kids. Even though graphic novels look similar to comic books in terms of illustrations, they differ because graphic novels feature a story in just one volume, unlike comic books, where the tale is spread through the series. These novels include different genres such as historical anecdotes, fiction, personal memoirs, and non-fiction. The plots they follow are quite compelling and can keep your kids engaged for hours. Vichitra Goel, writer, professor, and book reviewer, says, “Graphic novels are great for instilling a love of reading in young children. With engaging storylines and catchy illustrations that appeal to the eyes, these books make for quick reading too.” Check out the list to pick a book based on your child’s preferences.

13 Best Graphic Novels For Kids

1. Guts By Raina Telgemeier

  The charming memoir by the author Raina Telgemeier is based on her true story. She wakes up one day with terrible stomach trouble, only to realize that her pain coincides with all her worries. The tale in this graphic novel book dwells into the confusing world of middle-school children and their struggles with anxiety. It is an irresistible, compassionate, and an entertaining approach to normalizing therapy.

2. New Kid By Jerry Craft

  New Kid by Jerry Craft is an authentic, honest, humorous, and insightful story of a seventh-grader, Jordan Banks, who is one of the fewer kids of color in his entire grade. Torn between the worlds of his neighborhood and a school with low diversity, he struggles to find a balance. This engaging graphic novel offers an insight into the problems faced by a person of color and is recommended for all ages.  

3. The Last Kids On Earth By Max Brallier

  The action-packed and fast-moving graphic novel for kids features the story of a 13-year-old boy named Jack Sullivan, who is trapped in his treehouse with an unlimited supply of Oreos and Mountain Dew. He pairs up with a science geek and a school bully to save a classmate entangled in their annihilated school after a zombie apocalypse. This video game kind of illustration is an excellent fit with its surprising humor for hesitant readers.

4. A Graphix Book: Wings Of Fire By Tui T. Sutherland and Mike Holmes

  The intriguing story of Clay, one of the four dragonets, is chosen to fulfill the prophecy of ending the war between the tribes of Pyrrhia. But, when one of the dragonets is threatened, he chooses freedom and leaves the mountain to fulfill his destiny. With dramatic battle scenes and detailed illustrations, this graphic novel by the author Tui T. Sutherland and the illustrator Mike Holmes is a thrilling book for readers of all ages.

5. Real Friends By Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham

  The graphic memoir will transport you back to your elementary school days. It is a story of two best friends Shannon and Adriene. Through the book’s course, we see how Shannon struggles with her behavior, friends, and much more to discover her passion. Its colorful and creative art, paired with a heartfelt tale, will leave readers appreciating the concept of self-acceptance.

6. The Baby-Sitters Club Graphic Novels By Ann M. Martin, Gale Galligan, and Raina Telgemeier

  The classic book series by Ann M. Martin is illustrated in a graphic novel by the famous cartoonists Raina Telgemeir and Gale Galligan. It is the story of four best friends who stick with each other no matter what. With its humorous facial expressions capturing each character’s traits flawlessly, this unerring children’s graphic novel is ideal for new-comers or fans of Ann M. Martin.

7. Bone By Jeff Smith

  The famous story of the Bone cousins lost in an undiscovered desert and tangled amongst indescribable forces is captivating. Although the tale has a humorous start, it takes a dramatic turn to keep the readers hooked to the book. Readers of all ages will appreciate this popular famous graphic novel with an endearing story.

8. Narwhal: Unicorn Of The Sea By Ben Clanton

  Filled with charming banters, this graphic novel by Ben Clanton is a story of two friends, a happy Narwhal and a chilled-out jellyfish. All they do is eat waffles and party as they discover the ocean together. This book showcases friendship with its adorable illustrations and is ideal for young readers.

9. Minecraft Volume 1 By R. Sfé Monster and Sarah Graley

Minecraft Volume 1, the first Minecraft graphic novel, features a child, Tyler, who has to move away from his childhood town, leaving his favorite life behind. But, he is not alone and is with his adventurous friends in the world of Minecraft. The captivating story and endless adventures are famous amongst video gamers and can keep your kid engaged as Tyler goes across the Overworld to face the ender dragon.

10. Camp By Kayla Miller

  It is the story of two friends, Olive and Willow, who plan to spend the summer together at a camp. Willow is shy, and Olive is an outgoing person, and their friendship is tested as the former becomes clingy of the latter. This graphic novel explores the story of two girls who learn to step out of their safe zones and gain a new perspective on things.

11. The Hobbit By Charles Dixon, J. R. R. Tolkien, and David Wenzel

  This illustrated edition is the prequel to the famous novel Lord of the Rings. Bilbo Baggins, a content hobbit, goes on the quest of a stolen gem with the renowned wizard Gandalf and thirteen dwarves. A journey marked with danger and wisdom is well illustrated in the book and will keep the fictional fans engaged. The gripping story of The Hobbit adapted as a graphic novel is a successful attempt at creating a new classic.

12. Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy By Rey Terciero

  The famous graphic novel for kids is the modern readapted version of the well-known masterpiece, The Little Women. The four March sisters’ story in NYC fascinates the original essence and appeals to a varied audience. With its smart and creative execution, it is a must-read for new readers and classic book fans.

13. The City Of Ember By Dallas Middaugh, Jeanne DuPrau, and Niklas Asker

  The City of Ember is the story of Lina, a dreamer, and Doon, a realist. They discover the mayor’s malpractices and travel beneath the city’s tunnels in an attempt to save it. The contrasting characters’ facial expressions are well depicted with an ultimate message that echoes to its readers. This graphic novel is a page-turner with a tale of wonder, frustration, and appealing cinematic visuals.

How To Choose The Right Graphic Novels For Kids?

Here are some guidelines to help you choose the best graphic novels for your children.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Wedetso Chirhah is an avid reader whose love for books allows him to produce well-researched reviews. He sifts through multiple book reviews to compile a list of the best ones after considering factors like reader feedback and preferences. Here, Chirhah has rounded up the best graphic novels that will keep your child engaged for hours. This list includes different genres like fiction, non-fiction, historical anecdotes, and personal memoirs.

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