Graphic novels continue to be wildly popular at all levels. Here are five of my favorites–something for everyone, starting in elementary school and going through high school.
Published by Graphix
Already a National Book Award Finalist, there may be another sticker or two on the cover by the end of January. Jarret Krosoczka doesn’t spare too many details about his difficult childhood; how he overcame those difficulties to become the beloved author of the Lunch Lady books and others makes compelling reading for teens and adults.
All Summer Long by Hope Larson
Published by Farrar Straus and Giroux
Bina’s struggles over the summer between seventh and eighth grade make fun and inspiriring reading for fans of Raina Telgemeier, Jennifer Holm, and Victoria Jamieson.
Mr. Wolf’s Class by Aron Nels Steinke
Published by Graphix
A Google search of Aron Nels Steinke reveals that he is a second and third grade teacher by day and graphic artist by night. Ha! I should have guessed by how firmly he has his finger on the pulse of both elementary school students and teachers. Looking forward to the February 2019 sequel about Mr. Wolf’s class.
Published by First Second
Francis the Donkey was one of my favorite characters this year, a master craftsman who had to leave his well-established routine to go off in search of a lost friend. The story is targeted toward younger elementary readers, but Sara Varon treats them with respect and isn’t afraid to use a big vocabulary.
The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang
Published by First Second
Fashion, fairy tales, and feminism come together in this “be yourself” story of Frances, a dressmaker who gets hired to design clothes for Prince Sebastian and his alter ego Lady Crystallia.
A Kids Book A Day 