Graphic Novels

There is no superhero we currently need more than Ms. Marvel. An American Muslim teenager, Kamala Khan, embodies the classic superhero—a normal person trying to balance regular life with doing what’s right—and at the same time holds up a mirror to who we are and what we want to be in the 21^st century. Plus, the book is fantastically wonderful and fun. - Jocelyn

Do you feel intrigued? Titillated? If you’re embarrassed… don’t be! Moen and husband Matt use playful art, a diverse cast, and an admittedly pink palette to, yes, review sex toys – but also to clearly and comfortably explore sex practices, sexual health, and good communication. The cover reads “sex toy,” but this is all about empowerment, affirmation, education, and fun! - Jocelyn

A father-daughter relationship like none other – but heartbreaking in many familiar ways. A memoir that took Alison Bechdel years to write, she chronicles childhood through adulthood through a lens of discovery of both herself and her father – a man struggling with what he was and was not. With frank exploration of mental health and sexuality, this book is a revelation and just may make you feel right at home. - Jocelyn

I wish I would have had this book in my twenties, however, it is just as delightful in my thirties. It is a wonderful touchstone in knowing I am not alone, whether it be in books, relationships, introversion, and really just life in general. The art is simple, but the feels are complicated. - Karena

Bendis began this story of a young (white) woman violently taking on corrupt police and politicians in 2010. It likely would be a different story had he waited just a couple more years. That said, this grey-area epic (with gorgeous art by Alex Maleev) of one average person taking matters into her own hands - because no one else will - cannot help but strike a chord today. - Jocelyn

When I heard that Ta-Nehisi Coates was writing the new Black Panther series, I nearly hyperventilated. His writing should need no introduction, but his obvious love of comics floored me as I learned more about this upcoming volume. Perfect for die-hard fans of the Marvel universe or for someone looking for a more literary introduction to superhero comics. You can’t miss this almost-historic moment in comics history. —Jax

I want to press this book into the hands of everyone I know. The authors have done a fantastic job in creating the perfect primer for the queer experience. There is still so far to go when it comes to equality, but this book is going to change future conversations about being gay. And it’s funny! The clean artwork perfectly encapsulates each of the important concepts that have led us to where we are now.  —Ivy

Jessica Jones is kind of a mess. Jessica Jones doesn’t care. Jessica Jones is here to help. Jessica Jones is who the superheroes turn to. Because Jessica Jones used to be one. Jessica Jones had something bad happen to her. But Jessica Jones survived. Jessica Jones proves that being a real hero is so much more than super powers. Trust me – you want to read Jessica Jones.  --Jocelyn

Abel's comic timing made me a coffee-snorting spectacle in public, because I laughed through every page. In unveiling the creative process behind hit nonfiction podcasts like This American Life, Abel makes something incredible: a graphic novelization about radio storytelling that is, itself, effortlessly enjoyable to read. Ideal for anyone responsible for telling a good story well. —a.c.

If you like books, historical jokes, and sassy and hilarious comics, take a look at this new collection from Kate Beaton, a fantastic comic artist. I loved the first book from her wonderful webcomic, and this one exceeded my expectations. Insightful, silly, political, and always witty, her comics never fail to bring a smile to my face. Flip through a few pages; I guarantee you (or anyone who loves comics) will enjoy her!  --Jax