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.
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.
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 romp of a summer camp story that isn’t to be missed.
Complex characters, twists and turns, and beautiful artwork blend harmoniously for a perfect read that will jump-start the imagination.
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 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.
A worthy addition to any middle or high school library.
A recommended purchase for libraries with demand for inclusive graphic novels.
A fast-paced, fantastical story, full of intrigue, magic, and the female perspective. A perfect addition to any graphic novel collection.
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.
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.
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.
Packed with witty humor and thrilling adventure, this graphic novel will draw fans of “Captain Underpants” and belongs on middle grade library shelves.
A solid addition where realistic graphic fiction is in demand.
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.
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.
Perfect for fans of the Choose Your Own Adventure format and enthusiasts of fantasy and adventure.
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.
A humorous middle school graphic novel featuring a strong-willed protagonist who won’t stand for anyone to define her solely by her disability.
A power-up that keeps the action going while holding just enough back to whet appetites for the next book.
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.
An endearing graphic novel that will appeal to readers who enjoyed Moonstruck, Lumberjanes, and Heartstopper.
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.
A worthy addition to the canon of myths retold through the female lens that will appeal to any who enjoys the monster’s backstory.
Soul Beat fills a gap in manga collections by featuring a person of color in the lead role. Worth checking 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.
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.
While not for every teen, this graphic novel will provide a niche audience a way to reframe how they see the world when facing a crisis, making it a purposeful purchase for social-emotional learning.
A well-crafted story that somewhat balances humor and risk, character and caricature, but which may leave readers unsympathetic after the deluge of circumstances stretches on, losing the power to sustain either threat or investment.
A whimsical, sweet fantasy that is sure to delight teens looking for a magical, cozy world and nonbinary representation.
Hotelitor blends sci-fi and class comedy with entertaining results. A good choice for YA graphic novel collections.
While an author’s note acknowledges that a true bibliography would be limited, this could still be an excellent authority in distilling the complexities of Norse mythology and making it accessible to younger readers interested in folklore.
For readers who enjoy realistic fiction about school and friendship, and for creative kids who want to incorporate art into their futures.
This quirky graphic novel, with its unique characters and space-themed adventures, will interest young readers and belongs on all library and classroom shelves.
With the humor of Meggie Ramm’s Batcat and the layered hero’s journey of Ben Hatke’s Things in the Basement, this is a true hero of a tale.
A thoughtful, funny, and memorable story about family, friendship, and cooperation.
Good-hearted Haru is a character to root for in this often-dark beginning, leavened with moments of humor. Recommended where graphic novel fantasy is popular.
A high-spirited middle grade graphic adventure with appeal for fantasy fans and those ready to whet their appetites for imaginative pursuits.
A fun introduction to the Monkey King for a younger audience, with room for sequels. Recommended.
This romantic fantasy story is sweet, uplifting, imaginative, and often hilarious. Recommended.
A beautiful book about the beauty of friendship, determination, and speaking ones’ truth. For fans of Amanda Castillo’s and Cameron Chittock’s “Mapmakers and the Lost Magic” series and Wendy Xu’s Tidesong.
A unique book for the right reader; perhaps teen fans of Mechner’s work, those interested in video game development, and readers looking for a new take on WWII sagas.
The voice and pacing are still fresh, even though the original manga was published nearly 30 years ago, making this a classic that readers will still enjoy.
An engaging narrative with gorgeous illustrations makes this a captivating graphic novel and a strong purchase for any collection.
This breezy graphic novel tries a bit too hard to check all the boxes, but nevertheless is a charming story that will have readers rooting for Molly to persevere against the odds.YA Manga
Readers will devour this entertaining story and may find themselves reaching for dice and pencils while they wait for another adventure. A recommended first purchase.
A secondary purchase perhaps to see if there is an audience at your library.
Recommended where graphic novels are popular.
An intriguing story for fans of graphic novels and gadgets which leaves many questions yet to be answered.
Miller delivers another heartfelt and thoughtful tale of finding forgiveness, embracing change, and being in the moment.
Great for fans of Disney’s Inside Out, this graphic novel belongs on classroom and library shelves for all readers.
Buy where Volume 1 found an audience, and where graphic novels for young readers with an interest in international storytelling.
Purchase where sports graphic novels and role playing games are popular, especially where there are gaps in female representation.
Buy this book to enhance your graphic novel section. Many readers will likely become fans of this new series.
A fast-paced graphic novel recommended for larger middle grade collections.
Tsujimura’s novel has been skillfully brought to life in this manga adaptation. Highly recommended.
An imaginitive, high-energy heist that serves up laughs while gently introducing young readers to timely topics. A first purchase for library collections.
While perhaps not the most needle-moving Spider-Man title of all time, this is a solid entry for younger readers, and one that shows them they don’t need to be an actual superhero to make a difference in everyday life.
Beautiful and deliberate, this graphic adaptation retells the original story with impressive, exhaustive faithfulness.
An excellent purchase for elementary and middle school libraries where graphic novels and fantasy are in high demand.
While Lovely Muco! isn’t the deepest book out there, its adorable protagonist will likely delight fans that enjoy manga titles that feature a cute pet.
Give this graphic novel to fans of Kayla Miller. A first purchase for middle school libraries.
A fun action/adventure graphic novel with engaging art. Readers will eagerly await the next installment.
A sweet fantasy story with good-natured leads and stellar art that will fit in great with any library’s collection.
For a nuanced friends-to-lovers boys love manga, this single volume work has plenty of low stakes drama and blushing moments to sate the heart.
Purchase where other regressor titles like Villains are Destined to Die are popular, or where there is opportunity to discuss those two titles in an academic setting.
A fast, delightful, and approachable read that brings fantasy to young readers. Recommended.
Recommended for additional purchase where “Lore Olympus” or Greek mythology has wide readership.
Readers with an interest in architecture, watercolor, illustration, worldbuilding, or Miyazaki’s works will find inspiration in this richly visualized art book.
A worthy addition to high school libraries, this is for students who enjoy graphic novels about difficult topics.
An informative and compelling narrative sure to appeal to budding conservationists.
A good purchase for libraries looking to diversify their religious collections.
Skip! belongs in every library serving middle schoolers and deserves tween book discussion group awareness.
While it’s sometimes frustrating to see Nishimura’s tormentors not truly put in their place, My Clueless First Friend does feature some very cute, likable characters that are earnestly trying to do their best to spread more kindness around.
A manga that not only reads great, but has plenty of depth to satisfy the cerebral manga fan who’s looking for more than just a breezy read.
This first volume alone won’t do the series justice, but enough seeds are planted that provide plenty of promise for this supernatural mystery going forward.
A spine-tingling title with queer overtones that is guaranteed to engross readers from the get-go and continue to keep them guessing.
Martin weaves adventure and sensitive storytelling into a tale not to be missed. An excellent purchase for graphic novel collections and for readers who enjoy survival stories.
Recommended for young adult graphic novel collections.
Purchase where Komi Can’t Communicate or Idol Dreams circulate well.
Fans of the series will embrace this interpretation of the bounty hunter and his new companion. Highly recommended for any manga collection.
Recommended, especially for those that wish to grow the horror section in their manga and graphic novel collections.
For those who prefer spooky supernatural horror, this single volume collection of urban legends will send a pleasing chill or two up the spine.
Fans of Sakisaka’s other works, Ao Haru Ride and Love Me, Love Me Not, will certainly want to devour this likewise sweet romance and coming-of-age story.
Overall, this is a fun rom-com perfectly suited for fans of other manga series such as “My Special One,” or “Phantom of the Idol.”
Full of hilarious challenges, action-packed arguments, and a relatable (if not exaggerated) friendship debacle, this graphic novel is perfect for fans of Batter Royale and Chef’s Kiss.
This book will not reach every reader, but it is unique. Content includes bullying, violence, murder, and death by suicide involving kids. Additional purchase only for those with larger manga and graphic novel collections.
This meditative experience is a necessary addition for celebrating the outdoors and providing another avenue for SEL for all ages.
This does its best to be original, but its concept does come with issues and may not be something young readers or educators will prioritize in an already crowded market.
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