Graphic Novels

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

Star Wars revolutionized science fiction, so it’s no wonder people continually return to its mythos. This Star Wars comic fills in missing scenes from the original trilogy. I loved dropping back in with Leia, Luke, and Han. They’re on a mission to cripple the Empire, but were not expecting to be in Darth Vader’s path long before Luke was ready to face him. The artwork and writing perfectly characterize our old friends, paying homage to the original stylizing with a modern sleekness.  --Ivy

Jessica Jones was once known as Jewel—but now she’s just a private eye (if one with unusual access to the world of the suited super-heroes.)  Sarcastic, bitter, sassy, and smart, Jessica will go to extreme lengths to pretend she doesn’t have a good heart, while protecting those who normally protect. Finally back in print, in time for a new Netflix series, Jessica Jones proves that the best heroes are ones that are human first.  --Jocelyn