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Children's Literature: Graphic Novels

Introduction

Graphic novels have gained in popularity and encompass a wide variety of literary genres, from memoirs to non-fiction to classic adaptations. The accompanying artwork in graphic novels complements the words, bringing depth to the story. Here are just a sample of the graphic novels available in the College of DuPage Juvenille section. 

For a complete list, check here or ask a library staff member for help. 

New and Notable Graphic Novels

School Trip

Jerry Craft is back with the newest adventures of Jordan, Drew, Liam, and all the characters that fans first met in New Kid! In this full-color contemporary graphic novel, the gang from Riverdale Academy Day is heading to Paris, for an international education like you've never seen before...

Swim Team

Bree can't wait for her first day at her new middle school, until she's stuck with the only elective that fits her schedule, the dreaded Swim 101. The thought of swimming makes Bree more than a little queasy, yet she's forced to dive headfirst into one of her greatest fears. Lucky for her, Etta, an elderly occupant of her apartment building and former swim team captain, is willing to help.

The Real Riley Mayes Graphic Novel

A Stonewall Book Award Honor * This debut graphic novel is a story about friendship, identity, and embracing all the parts of yourself that make you special.

The Legend of Auntie Po

A NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FINALIST
Part historical fiction, part fable, and 100 percent adventure. Thirteen-year-old Mei reimagines the myths of Paul Bunyan as starring a Chinese heroine while she works in a Sierra Nevada logging camp in 1885.

Children's Books on the Great Graphic Novels List

A First Time for Everything: 2024 List

Dan's always been a good kid. But being a good kid doesn't stop him from being bullied, which is why Dan has low expectations when his parents send him on a class trip to Europe. But as he travels a series of first experiences begin to change him--first Fanta, first fondue, first time stealing a bike from German punk rockers... and first love.

Victory. Stand! 2024 List

In 1968 at the Mexico City Olympics, Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists to protest racial injustice inflicted upon African Americans when receiving their medals. Both men were forced to leave the Olympics, received death threats, and faced ostracism and continuing economic hardships. In this memoir, Tommie Smith looks back on his life, athletic career, and activism.

Booked: 2023 List

In this electrifying follow-up to Kwame Alexander's Newbery winner The Crossover. Twelve-year-old Nick learns the power of words as he wrestles with problems at home, stands up to a bully, and tries to impress the girl of his dreams.

Miss Quinces: a Graphic Novel: 2023 List

Sue just wants to spend the summer reading at camp, but instead she gets stuck going to Honduras to visit relatives. The trip takes a turn for the worse when Sue's mother announces that they'll be having a surprise quinceañera for Sue, which is the last thing she wants. What is Sue going to do?

Great Graphic Novels List

The Great Graphic Novels for Teens is a list of recommended graphic novels and illustrated nonfiction for those ages 12-18, prepared yearly by YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association). Some graphic novels on the list do feature books more appropriate for young adults and adults. 

  • URL: https://library.cod.edu/childrens_literature
  • Last Updated: Jun 12, 2025 1:39 PM
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