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Graphic novels and comics aren’t just popular, they are powerful! Once considered “just for fun”, these illustrated stories have become classroom staples, celebrated for their ability to engage students across reading levels and learning styles. 

Research shows that graphic novels improve reading comprehension, support visual literacy, and can boost critical thinking skills. A Scholastic study found that 70% of teachers say graphic novels help students who struggle with reading, and 89% say they increase student engagement. 

Why are students so hooked on these stories? Graphic novels offer something for everyone! Whether they are passionate about STEM, sports, arts, and everything in between, these books break down big ideas in a format that’s easy to digest. They are a gateway to deeper reading, creative exploration, and classroom conversations that students love. 

To help you stock your shelves with titles your students are sure to love, we’ve rounded up graphic novels across different categories that educators and librarians will be excited about. There’s something for every reader! 

STEM Stories With A Visual Twist:

These graphic novels bring science, technology, engineering, and math to your classroom shelves in a new, fun way! From space exploration to coding adventures, they make complex concepts exciting, approachable, and unforgettable.

• Maker Comics: Conduct a Science Experiment! by Der-shing Helmer, illustrated by Andrea Bell
• Magic Tree House Fact Tracker Graphic Novel: Space by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Jomike Tejido
• The Solvers Book #1: The Divmulti Ray Dilemma by Jon Chad
• Science Comics: The Periodic Table of Elements: Understanding the Building Blocks of Everything by Jon Chad
• The Robot Soccer Competition by Friend Podoal, illustrated by Jong-hyun Hong

Hot Off The Press:

New releases mean new lovable characters and exciting worlds to explore! These just-released graphic novels reflect current conversations and trends, keeping readers engaged with stories that feel relevant and real. 

• The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud
• Extra Large by Tyler Page
• A Song for You and I by K. O'Neill
• Warriors Graphic Novel: The Prophecies Begin #2 by Erin Hunter, illustrated by Natalie Riess and Sara Goetter
• Miss Camper by Kat Fajardo

Big Plays And Bigger Stories:

From underdog triumphs to game-day drama, these sports-themed graphic novels go beyond the scoreboard. These library essentials are perfect for exploring teamwork, perseverance, and passion, making them a win for any reader, athletic or not.

• Marshmallow and Jordan by Alina Chau
• Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas
• The Tryout by Christina Soontornvat and Joanna Cacao
• We Are Big Time by Hena Khan, illustrated by Safiya Zerrougui
• Tryouts by Sarah Sax

Imagination in Every Frame:

Celebrate creativity in all its forms with these graphic novels! From music and painting to invention and storytelling, these stories are sure to inspire artists and dreamers while showing how powerful self-expression can be. 

• Drama by Raina Telgemeier 
• Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte; illustrated by Ann Xu
• Pawcasso by Remy Lai
• Jukebox by Nidhi Chanani
• Art Club by Rashad Doucet

Winning Stories Worth Sharing:

These graphic novels are critically acclaimed and beloved by readers. They stand out for their powerful storytelling, diverse voices, and lasting impact on students of all ages and backgrounds. There is a reason these titles have students and educators returning time and time again. 

• New Kid by Jerry Craft
• When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed
• Smile by Raina Telgemeier
• Investigators by John Patrick Green
• Mexikid by Pedro Martin

Binge-Worthy Graphic Series:

When one book isn’t enough, these standout series have got your back! These graphic novels have readers hooked from the first volume with immersive plots and lovable characters. Build a love for reading, one volume at a time. 

• Dog Man: Volume 1 by Dav Pilkey
• Kristy’s Great Idea (The Baby-Sitters Club #1) by Raina Telgemeier 
• Heartstopper, Volume 1 by Alice Oseman
• Spy School The Graphic Novel by Stuart Gibbs
• Wings of Fire: The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland, illustrated by Mike Holmes

Graphic novels continue to prove that reading can be both educational and irresistible. With stories that span every subject and genre, they invite students to discover the joy of books in a format that feels fun and accessible. If any of these titles caught your eye, we’d love to help get them into your classroom libraries! You can request a quote to connect with one of our account managers, who would love to connect. Happy reading!