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PREMIUM
Dreams Come to Life
Fans of Five Nights at Freddy’s or Goosebumps will enjoy the worldbuilding and satire. There’s plenty of excellent craft, but perhaps not enough to ignore the goofy twists.
PREMIUM
Let’s Go, Coco!
Good representation but doesn’t add many surprises to the always-growing world of kids’ graphic novels about friendship drama. Even so, this will still be much appreciated by kids who devour these stories, particularly if they like a sports twist.
PREMIUM
Unico: Awakening
A reimagining of a beloved classic that will appeal to fans of heartfelt adventure manga and works like She-Ra and the Princess of Power. An ideal series to help fill the middle grade manga demand.
Those familiar with Hunsinger’s moving New Yorker comic story “How to Draw a Horse” will be thrilled with this beautiful, heartfelt, longer work. A must-have for any library serving middle and high school students.
PREMIUM
Stand Up!
This is another fine addition to the middle grade graphic novel genre that embraces individuality and lets readers know it’s okay to be themselves and no one is perfect.
PREMIUM
Taxi Ghost
Every library that already owns Escabasse’s previous work will want to add this to their shelves.
PREMIUM
Loving, Ohio
This coming-of-age story for teens may run a bit slow at times but brings more excitement and panic when dealing with something truly haunting in the dark.
PREMIUM
unOrdinary, Volume 2
This second volume continues to do a lot of what its predecessor did well. Stirring characters, impressive art, and a rousing plot makes this a worthwhile purchase for young adult collections.
This healing slice-of-life graphic novel lights a bright path for LGBTQIA+ romance plots by including characters with intersectional experiences. A must-have for all collections.
The first in this comic book series is motivated equally by mystery and STEM, making it an attractive formula for curious readers.
Is the Mexican jumping bean really a bean? And how do animals and plants communicate? These Spanish-language books for elementary students explore sea animals, wildlife, and girls making their mark.
These exceptional resources will help librarians, ranging from early career to veterans, create equitable environments and diversity their collections.
Activities, books, and online tools address issues including the impact of pet waste on water systems, measuring water footprints, and how activists raise awareness about conservation.
Creators are never so ambitious than when they want to get the facts into the hands of young readers. Here is our list of outstanding nonfiction books from the first part of 2024.
PREMIUM
Sparks: Portals
Fans of fantasy and sci-fi, or those who simply want a good coming-of-age tale, will find this must-have graphic novel’s engaging narrative and stunning visuals a truly enjoyable experience.
Recommended for older school-age and middle school readers, as well as fans of high fantasy and Dungeons & Dragons.
PREMIUM
Deja Ross Speaks to Freaks
This book will be a hit with fans of mysterious creatures. Pair it with cryptozoology resources so readers can learn more about the cryptids Deja meets.
An entertaining graphic novel with a strong heart; for fans of stories about magical journeys, identity, growing closer to friends, and growing up.
PREMIUM
Youth Group
Fun and fast-paced, this graphic novel will “jump for joy” right off shelves and is for anyone who can see the comedy in worship or identifies with the drive to save their corner of the world.
PREMIUM
HoverGirls
For fans of the HoverGirls web comic, as well as teens and even adults who are ready for a thought-provoking and surreal adventure featuring magical girls.
PREMIUM
The Makers Club
This graphic novel will be popular in libraries with makerspaces as well as with kids who are passionate about STEM and friendship stories.
PREMIUM
Mr. Smarty Pants: Aww Nuts!
Add to collections where STEM-themed graphic novels are in demand.
Middle graders will be delighted with a second Meesh story. A recommended purchase for graphic novel collections.
Perfect for anyone who loves mystery and monsters, Vivian Vance will fly off the shelves in any library.
PREMIUM
The Pale Queen
Whether readers are longtime fans of Aldridge or simply seeking a captivating graphic novel with stunning visuals, a touch of darkness, and a hopeful message, this deserves a prominent place on all bookshelves.
PREMIUM
Gamerville
The success and relatability of Christmas’s Swim Team will draw middle grade readers to this charming graphic novel of video games, camp, making friends, and finding balance. Recommended.
This print reference roundup features nonfiction titles for all ages, including a bird guide for kids, a volume on censorship, two research-ready tomes on women's history, and the ultimate bugopedia.
As the world prepares for the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games, here are a few nonfiction titles about the Games and some of the inspiring athletes who have competed in them.
PREMIUM
Fake Chinese Sounds
Readers will learn the meaning of tolerance and empathy through this compelling story of a student who is trying to balance the desire to fit in with respecting her family background.
This year's Boston Globe-Horn Book Award winners include Do You Remember? by Sydney Smith, Remember Us by Jacqueline Woodson, The Mona Lisa Vanishes by Nicholas Day, and Kin: Rooted in Hope by Carole Boston Weatherford.
PREMIUM
Kingdom Riders
Ambitious, and executed with its heart in the right place, this first volume promises massive, world-changing stakes from the simple gifts of the heroine, but likely won’t charm readers as much as its protagonist charms everyone she meets.
There is nothing pedestrian about this fantastic supernatural thriller. A modern classic with ties to the monsters that came before.
Stories of children with parents behind bars are as diverse as the millions of real-life kids familiar with the experience. These 19 fiction and nonfiction titles may offer an empathetic, metaphoric hand for young readers to hold.
They are politicians and artists and athletes. They are young people, and people with a few years of life under their belts. And their stories can inform and encourage young readers in June and throughout the year. These books can change lives—and even save them.
This heartwarming story about found family and finding yourself is an immersive and refreshing shift from traditional science fiction.
A must-purchase for any and all tweens and teens who are ravenous for lighthearted, absorbing, and authentic coming-of-age, realistic graphic fiction.
PREMIUM
Upstaged
This is a great selection for middle schoolers transitioning to high school or struggling to navigate social groups, and for elementary and middle school libraries looking to add age-relevant LGBTQIA+ stories to their collections.
This graphic novel adaptation of the fantasy novel is a captivating look into the world of Tortall and its newest fierce page.
PREMIUM
Sink or Swim
This graphic novel about anxiety, body image, and queerness is a recommended purchase for middle school library shelves.
PREMIUM
The Ghostkeeper
This ghostly fantasy has everything that fans of cozy, spooky books want in a story.
This graphic novel will be thoroughly enjoyed by all and is highly recommended for library collections.
PREMIUM
Unholy Blood, Vol. 1
An exciting vampire story for readers looking for a vengeful female lead.
While this isn’t an outright horror novel like other Umezz works, this could spark some good conversation on technology and ethics, and is a good addition for larger manga collections.
PREMIUM
Fairest of All: A Graphic Novel
Containing plenty of humor and heart, this is a worthwhile addition to library collections. Fans of the “Whatever After” prose series and the “Goddess Girls” series will enjoy this this title.
This manga would be great for readers of series like “Whisper Me a Love Song,” or “A Tropical Fish Yearns for Snow.”
PREMIUM
K Is in Trouble
While not every young reader will recognize the nods to Kafka, this book certainly will have its fans.
PREMIUM
Tryouts
For readers who enjoy realistic graphic novels about sports, school stories, friendship, and issues of identity.
PREMIUM
The Mighty Onion
A perfect match for any fan of Diary of a Wimpy Kid hoping to write their own story someday, this is a promising and noteworthy addition to any middle grade collection.
PREMIUM
A for Effort
This slice-of-life graphic novel is a heartfelt, personal snapshot of an authentically human experience and will have appeal.
PREMIUM
Pillow Talk
A high-interest, empowering read for high school fans of Roller Girl, The Skin I’m In, and Dumplin’.
PREMIUM
Anzu and the Realm of Darkness
This thrilling tale of claiming identity, rooted in a fascinating exploration of Japanese culture and folklore, will appeal to a wide range of readers.
Deeply recommended, especially for high school libraries where slice-of-life stories are popular.
PREMIUM
Brownstone
A great YA graphic novel for teens who are trying to figure out who they are or anyone who has ever felt like they were on the outside. This would be a popular title for fans of Christine Suggs’s ¡Ay, Mija!: My Bilingual Summer in Mexico, Deb JJ Lee’s In Limbo, and Emily Bowen Cohen’s Two Tribes.
PREMIUM
Snowball Earth, Vol. 1
This sci-fi adventure with heart will appeal to teen readers who have been looking for their next battle mecha story.
With its imaginative storytelling and illustrations, Safer Places is perfect for new and seasoned readers of graphic novels and is a must-have addition to any library’s collection.
A must-read graphic novel that will draw fans of Jerry Craft’s New Kid and Raina Telgemeier’s Smile. This book belongs on library shelves everywhere.
PREMIUM
Young Hag and the Witches’ Quest
A fast-paced, fantastical story, full of intrigue, magic, and the female perspective. A perfect addition to any graphic novel collection.
PREMIUM
Age 16
Getting to see three lives unfold in different locations and times is a gift Fung eloquently unwraps in this graphic novel that increases the visibility of AAPI stories in books for teens.
This fresh take on the magical girl genre could be a great starting point for new manga readers and a fun read for longtime fans.
Complex characters, twists and turns, and beautiful artwork blend harmoniously for a perfect read that will jump-start the imagination.
PREMIUM
Lucky Scramble
A fun, feel-good look into the world of competitive speed cubing that will surely inspire young readers to pick up a cube for themselves.
A must-have for all middle grade collections, Timid is sure to fit right in next to other popular contemporary graphic novels such as Jerry Craft’s New Kid, Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter, and Guts by Raina Telgemeier.
This title will be a welcome addition to any collection looking for strong media-tie ins.
Endearing, heartbreaking, and uplifting in turns, Fong’s unforgettable debut is a first purchase for youth graphic novel collections.
With imaginative world-building, impactful action, and underdog leads, this book stays true to the spirit of shonen manga while carving out its own unique identity.
PREMIUM
The Adventures of Invisible Boy
Packed with witty humor and thrilling adventure, this graphic novel will draw fans of “Captain Underpants” and belongs on middle grade library shelves.
Fifteen outstanding books of poetry and seven novels in verse have been recognized as 2024 Notable Books. Selections include a range of formats—lively nonfiction, fantasy, and moving verse novels—written by familiar poets and debut authors.
PREMIUM
King Cheer
This graphic novel will fit nicely into the collection that already has graphic novels with LGBTQIA+ characters and where the previous volume is popular.
Learning to stand tall and live their truths are lessons all teens need; this glimpse into a world of music and friendship will resonate with many readers searching the library for unique stories to fit them, or suit anyone who desires to express themselves, but finds the challenges of life getting in the way.
Graphic novel fans are going to devour Eowulf’s first solo adventure, and likely ask for seconds.
PREMIUM
Silver Vessels
Not essential; steer readers who are in search of LGBTQIA+ graphic novels to Mike Curato’s Flamer or Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper.
The perfect family vacation story, complete with mummies, newfound friends, and (eventually) sibling cooperation.
PREMIUM
Forecast from Stonehenge
Perfect for fans of the Choose Your Own Adventure format and enthusiasts of fantasy and adventure.
PREMIUM
Continental Drifter
Continental Drifter offers honest, sometimes painful, insight into growing up as part of two cultures and will help anyone who has ever felt lonely in their own family, or even with friends, process the emotions that come with trying to fit in.
PREMIUM
Shiny Misfits
A humorous middle school graphic novel featuring a strong-willed protagonist who won’t stand for anyone to define her solely by her disability.
PREMIUM
Travis Daventhorpe Powers Up!
A power-up that keeps the action going while holding just enough back to whet appetites for the next book.
PREMIUM
49 Days
Although the protagonist is a college student, middle and high school readers will relate to the universal experiences of love, loss, and family tradition. Recommended, especially for libraries that serve the AAPI community.
True to its title, Karate Prom creates a joy-filled story about two teens who want to be together so badly, they are willing to fight for it. A tale for lovers and fighters alike.
PREMIUM
Rainbow! Vol. 1
An endearing graphic novel that will appeal to readers who enjoyed Moonstruck, Lumberjanes, and Heartstopper.
PREMIUM
Blood City Rollers
An entertaining story about a teen finding her own place in life and starting down her own path. Recommended where paranormal graphic novels are popular.
Offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of Olympic athletes, these books encourage readers to believe that their own bodies and minds can achieve amazing things.
These books help support positive discussions with students about the climate crisis.
PREMIUM
The Fox Maidens
A worthy addition to the canon of myths retold through the female lens that will appeal to any who enjoys the monster’s backstory.
PREMIUM
Soul Beat: The Payback
Soul Beat fills a gap in manga collections by featuring a person of color in the lead role. Worth checking out.
In an interview with SLJ, Dan Bova, author of The HISTORY Channel This Day in History For Kids shares details about creating the book, along with his favorite fact in the volume and why he wears a football helmet while binge-watching Netflix.
Feminism receives barely a mention in most curricula. These titles for upper elementary to high school students delve deeper into the knowledge gaps and feature a diverse, international representation of women from the past and present who have made a mark on history.
PREMIUM
Aya: Claws Come Out
Purchase the previous six stories in addition to this new volume for the full experience, but only where budgets allow and where there’s an established audience.
PREMIUM
GLEEM
A showcase of Carrasco’s kinetic art. While some may not completely understand it, the passion of his visuals and storytelling shine through to create a thought-provoking work of modern art.
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