Even the best graphic novels have long had a reputation for being trashy, alternatives to “proper” books. Even the phrase “graphic novel” invokes much ridicule as a way to make comics sound more legitimate.
If that’s your impression, you’re not alone. However, as a mom of five, three of whom would rather poke pins in their eyes than read a book at one point, I’m here to let you know the truth.
That truth is that graphic novels are similar to, but distinct from comics. These books have been shown to increase intelligence and vocabulary — by independent scientists who were not graphic novel fans.
What’s more? More than just a gateway drug to “proper” books, graphic novels are a sophisticated, complex, nuanced form of printed entertainment we should all embrace.
- Beautifully rendered in watercolor
- Hilarious and surprisingly tender
- Suitable for children and adults!
- Features stories-within-the-story
- Utilizes humor & drama, prose & poetry
- Introduces children to creative process
- Plain smart and moving
- Odd and amazingly beautiful world
- Encourages curiosity, bravery, creativity
- Easy-to-read graphic novel
- Inspires children to write & draw
- Includes drawing instructions
- Positive, playful, zero conflict
- 3-book set with 3 stories each
- Comes with 12x16” poster
- Very easy to read
- Engaging and hilarious
- Perfect for early readers
- Clear-cut visual storytelling
- Calm pastel colors
- Readable lettering
- Easy to read
- Perfect for Minecraft fans
- Story about teamwork & friendship
- 3 full-color graphic novels
- Story about overcoming difficulties
- Relatable for anyone with siblings
- Winner of the Newbery Medal
- Story about diversity and belonging
- Excellent choice for tween readers
What’s the Difference Between Graphic Novels and Comics?
While both comics and graphic novels tell stories with words and pictures, comics are usually relatively short and tell a story in installments over several issues. Graphic novels are longer and, although they may be part of a series, tell an entire story in one volume (1).
Some would also argue that graphic novels have richer, more in-depth stories with better character development and a more sophisticated story arc.
Do Graphic Novels Count As Reading?
Absolutely! Graphic novels not only count as reading but have been shown to help kids get excited about reading in general and develop a more comprehensive vocabulary.
A study by Anne E. Cunningham and Keith E. Stanovich of California State University showed that the language and vocabulary used in the graphic novels they evaluated were more complex and more advanced than the oral communication of the college graduates they assessed (2).
The same study also saw twice as many difficult or rare words in the graphic novels than in the children’s literature written for the same age group.
And don’t just take my word for it; graphic novels are accepted by librarians and educational experts as mainstream literature for readers of all ages.
The American Libraries Association publishes an annual list of the Best Graphic Novels. It also publishes multiple resources to help you choose the best quality, age-appropriate graphic novels for kids (3).
There are also other significant benefits to reading graphic novels, which we’ll share at the end of our top 50 list. I had trouble keeping this list down to 50, but here are some favorite graphic novels of our family, friends, and assorted graphic novel enthusiasts of our acquaintance.
Product Reviews
For those who already adore graphic novels, these are our favorite box sets, which make ideal gifts.
[/page-sections]Olympians Boxed Set
Ancient Action
Fast-based, exciting, and unflinching, Olympians tell the stories of Poseidon, Aphrodite, Hera, Hades, and Athena. While not gratuitous, the inherent violence of the myths is clearly illustrated, so this isn’t a set for kids under 12.
DC Super Hero: Girls Box Set
Girl Power
Travel to Super Hero High and discover how Wonder Woman, Harley Quinn, Katana, Bat Girl, and others learned how to be superheroes.
Amulet #1-8: Box Set
Bestsellers
The first eight editions of Kazu Kibuishi’s bestselling series are brought together in one high-quality box set. Ideal for grades three to seven, Amulet is popular among teachers trying to encourage reluctant readers.
Hilo: The Great Big Box (Books 1-6)
Humanoid Alien Robots
Meet Hilo, the alien robot boy who fell to earth. He has no idea how he got here or what he’s suppressed to do. Luckily he has new friends Gina and DJ to guide him.
Dog Man: The Supa Epic Collection
Canine Crime Fighter
From the creator of Captain Underpants, Dog Man, a new breed of justice with the body of a man and the head of a dog.
The Baby-Sitters Club: Graphic Novels #1-7
Graphic Twist on a Classic
Existing fans and newcomers alike will enjoy these graphic novel adaptations of the classic The Baby-Sitters Club series. I especially like how these adaptations allow readers who struggle to share the same stories as their more fluent peers.
DC Graphic Novels for Kids: Box Set 1
Superhero Teen Life
The first of a series of box sets, this slipcase contains four graphic novels in a distinctly middle school cartoon style. So you can be comfortable with your child enjoying superheroes without encountering adult content.
Benefits of Graphic Novels for Kids
Graphic Novels Can Be a Gateway to Reading
Some people tolerate graphic novels as a way to encourage reluctant readers. We were guilty of this. I gritted my teeth and told myself it was a good thing long-term when our son wanted to read nothing but the Bone books.
However, while some kids get into graphic novels and then segway into other forms of literature, we now know it’s not moving on or graduating to “proper” books. Instead, graphic novels are a valid, educational reading experience in their own right (4).
Graphic Novels Reduce Reading Anxiety
Our youngest daughter struggled with reading because the idea of reading a chapter book was overwhelming and made her anxious. That anxiety prevented her from concentrating; she didn’t get the story and then felt stupid.
With graphic novels, she wasn’t overwhelmed by a large bank of text. Then she began to read and understand the books, which resulted in her feeling more confident (5).
Graphic Novels Improve Reading Comprehension
Some kids need more time or struggle to process written descriptions of places, people, and events. This stopping, starting, and rereading interrupts the flow of reading and impacts overall comprehension of the story.
Graphic novels allow kids to absorb information about setting, facial expressions and even help to differentiate between characters. Consequently, without the distraction of processing word-based descriptions, some kids find it easier to get what’s going on in the story (6).
Age-Appropriate Options for Kids With Learning Disabilities
Kids with learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, for whom English is a second language, or those who have any other additional barrier to literacy can end up with reading materials appropriate for children way younger than them.
Not only is this a cause of embarrassment and sometimes shame. It also discourages such kids from exploring books and experiencing the potential sense of achievement successful reading can bring. Graphic novels are an excellent, age-appropriate book form for these kids (7).
Graphic Novels Help You Share Books
I am an avid reader and almost always have a book within arms reach, so I have to admit I struggled when it turned out our youngest daughter couldn’t be less interested in books. Graphic novels have been a way for us to bond that would never have been possible with a text-only book.
Embrace Graphic Novels for Kids
Graphic novels are a magnificent way for kids to enjoy books, especially if they are reluctant or struggle to read. These are sophisticated book forms recognized as such by academics, librarians, and educators alike.
We have found them to be a way to encourage reading and bond with the kids. Plus, we’ve been thoroughly put in our place when we mistakenly asserted that they were not proper books.
Embrace, enjoy together, repeat.
