Being a kid, consuming graphic novels, comics, or other picture books was the most accessible source to quench my thirst for reading. Even now, graphic novels are so easy and wholesome to read, making them perfect for reading between big series or chunky books. So in this article, we bring you twelve fantastic graphic novels to make you feel wholesome and happy and read between big chunky books.
#1 Fence Vol 1- 4 by C.S. Pacat
About the Book
Title: Fence
Author: C.S. Pacat
Genre: Graphic Novel, Young Adult
Publisher: BOOM! Box
Type: Series
No. of Books: 4
Goodreads rating: 4/5
In this book, we follow Nicholas, an illegitimate son of a retired fencing champion who dreams of getting the chance to compete and train for the fencing tournament. Luckily, he gets accepted into the prodigious Kings Row private school. However, in school, Nicholas is having trouble finding a place for himself and being able to train alongside all the great fencing students properly. Through clashes, rivalries, and romance between teammates, Nicholas and the boys of Kings Row discover much more to fencing than just foils and lunges.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book was fantastic. Moreover, it was everything that I was hoping it would be. It focuses on a not-so-popular sport- Fencing. I loved the artwork, which wonderfully showed all the different fencing styles. Each volume gets better and better. Moreover, Nicholas and his rivalry with mysterious Seiji Katayama were excellent. Their banter was so great, witty, and just plain awesome. I loved every moment I got to spend with these characters. However, starting with Nicholas’s story expands more into friendships, teamwork, and trust. Did I say I love this book? Because I love it damn so much. Please read this!
To buy/gift Book 1 in Fence, click on the below link:
#2 Saga Vol 1- 9 by Brian K. Vaughan
About The Book
Title: Saga
Author: Brian K. Vaughan
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Publisher: Image Comics
Type: Series
No. of Books: 9
Goodreads rating: 4.2/5
This story follows two characters who happen to fall in love during an intergalactic war. The problem? They are both on opposite sides and, therefore, the enemies who weren’t supposed to fall in love. The bigger problem? Now they are about to bring a new life amidst all this chaos. Their baby. They would do everything to protect and raise their baby. But will the baby be able to make it when enemies close in on them from everywhere?
Why do we recommend this book?
This book was like a breath of fresh air. Moreover, the plot is somewhat unique, with a great blend of fantasy with fiction. However, the story is told from the baby’s POV. The survival trope is done well, and despite the seriousness of the situation, it is also funny. Even if you have never read a graphic novel before, try this one. You won’t be disappointed. It is one of the best graphic novels.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Saga, click on the below link:
#3 Fangs by Sarah Anderson
About the Book
Title: Fangs
Author: Sarah Anderson
Genre: Romance
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Type: Standalone
Pages: 115
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
This book follows Elsie, a three-hundred-year-old vampire who has never met someone who catches her interest. This all changes when she meets Jimmy in a bar. And things get interesting when she realizes that Jimmy is a werewolf. However, they form an incredible bond in which they watch horror movies together, have fine dining, and are fond of each other. So can a werewolf and a vampire get together and live happy lives?
Why do we recommend this book?
This graphic novel is so damn cute. Even the relationship between both the characters is excellent. They understand each other well. I would love to have a relationship like that. Likewise, the art is well done too. They both support each other so well—perfect fast-paced book to read on the beach.
To buy/gift Fangs click on the below link:
#4 Heartstopper Vol 1- 4 by Alice Oseman
About The Book
Title: Heartstopper
Author: Alice Oseman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Young Adult
Type: Series
No. of Books: 4
Goodreads rating: 4.5/5
This is a story of two boys, Charlie and Nick. Charlie is in Grade 10 at Truham Grammar School for Boys. He is shy, over-thinker, and openly gay. However, Nick is his opposite. Nick Nelson is in Grade 11 and is on the Rugby team. Moreover, being on the Rugby team, Nick is famous and is friendly with everyone. Nick has heard of Charlie- a boy who was bullied for a few months for being gay but hasn’t been able to strike a conversation with him. When Charlie and Nick talk regularly, friendship blooms quickly, but could there be something more…?
Why do we recommend this book?
If someone asked me to describe this book in one word, I’d happily say cute. The art style is so beautiful and adorable. Both Charlie and Nick are likable characters. Their friendship and their family are everything one could ever want. So please read this book and don’t miss out on the wholesome and heartwarming feelings that this book evokes. Finally, it is one of the best graphic novels.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Heartstopper, click on the below link:
#5 Monstress Vol 1- 6 by Marjorie M. Liu
About The Book
Title: Monstress
Author: Marjorie M. Liu
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Publisher: Image Comics
Type: Series
No. of Books: 6
Goodreads rating: 4/5
The story is set in an alternate 1900s Asia. In this story, we follow a girl named Maika who has a psychic link with a monster of tremendous power. However, this means she literally has a monster inside of her. Maika’s monster is what she needs to survive when the world around her wishes she wouldn’t. It gives her great power but also makes her feared and hunted by others. And all her life, she’s been taught to be scared of it. So finally, will she be able to survive in this harsh world with her monster?
Why do we recommend this book?
The artwork in this book is surreal. It is so beautiful that I can’t even express it in words. Moreover, this book has everything that one wants in a fantasy. Myths? Check. History? Check. Politics? Check. Monsters? Check check check. Also, the imaginative world that the author has created is fantastic. Some people might find it confusing at first, but you won’t be able to stop when it gets going. Finally, this book is perfect for manga fans of Naruto or Claymore.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Monstress, click on the below link:
#6 Paper Girls Vol 1- 6 by Brian K. Vaughan
About The Book
Title: Paper Girls
Author: Brian K. Vaughan
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Publisher: Image Comics
Type: Series
No. of Books: 6
Goodreads rating: 4.2/5
The novel begins in 1988 in the early hours after Halloween. The story follows four girls, Erin, Mac, K.J., and Tiff, who work as paper girls and help deliver the newspapers in different households. However, in the early hours after Halloween, they run into a gang of futuristic teenagers and militant dinosaur-riding “elders.” This forces them to abandon their paper routines and come along on the journey from the ancient past to the far future.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book has some fantastic concepts. All the four girls’ characters were well-fetched out and relatable. Moreover, there is a concept of time travel, and I absolutely love it. However, the idea of time travel might feel confusing at first, but later on, it does sit well. Also, the author did a great job of explaining it. So, if you love to read time travel books, you will enjoy this book.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Paper Girls, click on the below link:
#7 Ghosted in L.A. Vol 1- 3 by Sina Grace
About The Book
Title: Ghosted in L.A.
Author: Sina Grace
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Paranormal
Publisher: BOOM! Box
Type: Series
No. of Books: 3
Goodreads rating: 3.6/5
The story follows Daphne Walters, who just got into a fight with her best friends, where her best friend claimed that she is too dependent on her boyfriend. However, Daphne denies this accusation and moves to Los Angeles to move in with her boyfriend, ready to live happily. But after her happily ever after turns into a happily for a month, she realizes that her friend might have been right. However, finding an apartment in L.A. is a killer, and trying to escape her boyfriend’s presence, she goes apartment hunting and encounters Rycroft Manor. Moreover, Rycroft Manor is abandoned, beautiful, and haunted. Finally, will the dead be able to help Daphne find the life she’s been missing in the big city?
Why do we recommend this book?
This graphic novel did a great job showcasing different parts of Los Angeles and its beauty. Moreover, the story is excellent. However, there it suffered a bit from the lack of world-building. On the other hand, I loved the coloring and the depictions of ghosts as they all came from different periods in time. Finally, this book is for the lovers of ghost stories.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Ghosted, click on the below link:
#8 Something is Killing the Children Vol 1- 5 by James Tynion IV
About the Book
Title: Something is Killing the Children
Author: James Tynion IV
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Horror
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Type: Series
No. of Books: 5
Goodreads rating: 4.2/5
This story takes place in a small town in America- Archer’s Peak. Things turn chaotic in this sleepy town when children begin to go missing. Most of the missing children never find their way back home, but those with terrible stories of terrifying creatures living in the shadows. However, their only hope of finding and eliminating the threat is the arrival of a mysterious stranger, who believes the children and claims to be the only one who sees what they can see. Her name is Erica Slaughter, and her job is to kill monsters. Finally, will she be able to save the town and its children?
Why do we recommend this book?
This graphic novel is fantastic. The underlying tension is that something terrible is happening, but the readers don’t know what. Moreover, it’s a slow-burn horror graphic novel that sets the perfect atmosphere with its slow pacing. Fans of horror and Stephen King must try this book.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Something, is Killing the Children, click on the below link:
#9 The Prince and The Dressmaker by Jen Wang
About The Book
Title: The Prince and the Dressmaker
Author: Jen Wang
Genre: Graphic Novel, Young Adult
Publisher: First Second
Type: Standalone
Pages: 283
Goodreads rating: 4.4/5
This book follows the story of Prince Sebastian. The parents of the Prince are looking for a bride. However, the Prince is too busy hiding secrets from everyone. One of the only two people who know Sebastian’s secret is the brilliant dressmaker Frances. Moreover, she knows that the Prince likes to wear dresses sometimes and takes on Paris by storm as the fabulous Lady Crystallia―the hottest fashion icon in the world’s capital of fashion! However, being a secret keeper of the Prince also means letting go of her dreams of greatness. How long can Frances defer her dreams to protect a friend?
Why do we recommend this book?
I loved this book so much. The art style, the characters, the colors, and the atmosphere everything were cute and perfect. Also as the story takes place in nineteenth-century France, which provides the story with a little fairy tale vibes. Moreover, it has excellent LGBT representation. Finally, my favorite thing about this book is how gender dignity and acceptance are discussed respectfully.
To buy/gift Book 1 in The Prince and The Dressmaker, click on the below link:
#10 Locke & Key Vol 1- 6 by Joe Hill
About the Book
Title: Locke & Key
Author: Joe Hill
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Horror
Publisher: IDW Publishing
Type: Series
No. of Books: 6
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
Welcome to Keyhouse Manor. The story follows four siblings, Tyler, Kinsey, and little Bode, who return to Keyhouse Manor, their ancestral home, after the murder of their father. The Manor is anything the children have ever seen. Moreover, it is filled with magical doors and keys that unlock them. Unfortunately, an evil presence is kept inside the Manor, which will stop at nothing to get what it wants. Finally, will the siblings be able to survive the Keyhouse Manor?
Why do we recommend this book?
This book was a fantastic combination of horror based on supernatural elements and the evil within us. This is the story of a family dealing with grief and changes all at once, and we get to see the kids adapt to these changes(not without difficulty, though). The artwork and the intriguing plotline get one hooked right from the beginning. If you liked the Netflix adaptation of Locke & Key, you must read these graphic novels. Trust me; books are better than the show.
To buy/gift Book 1 in Locke and Key, click on the below link:
#11 The Tea Dragon Society Series by Kay O’Neill
About The Book
Title: The Tea Dragon Society
Author: Kay O’Neill
Genre: Graphic Novel, Middle Grade, Fantasy
Publisher: Oni Press
Type: Series
No. of Books: 3
Books in it: #1 The Tea Dragon Society, #2 The Tea Dragon Festival, #3 The Tea Dragon Tapestry
Goodreads rating: 4.4/5
This book follows the story of Greta, a blacksmith apprentice. When Greta discovers a lost tea dragon in the marketplace, she learns that the dragon belongs to a dignified-looking llamalike creature named Hesekiel. Hesekiel, his wheelchair-using partner, Erik, and the enigmatic, hooved-and-antlered, cotton-candy–tressed Minette make up what is left of the Tea Dragon Society. Through Hesekiel and Erik, she realizes that the art form of tea dragon care is dying. As Greta befriends them and their shy ward, Minette, Greta sees how the craft enriches their lives—and eventually her own.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book is so wholesome and lovely. It can lift anyone’s spirit with the wholesomeness that it provides. I love all the characters in it- especially Minette. The story is so cute. Moreover, the artwork is beautiful, and the tea dragons( tiny dragons that grow teas on their head) are adorable. Please read this book if you feel stressed and want Something to relax.
To buy/gift Book 1 in The Tea Dragon Society Series, click on the below link:
#12 Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker
About The Book
Title: Mooncakes
Author: Suzanne Walker
Genre: Graphic Novel, Young Adult, Fantasy
Publisher: Oni Press
Type: Standalone
Pages: 243
Goodreads rating: 3.9/5
This story follows Nova Young, who is a teen witch. But, she knows much more about witchcraft than any other teen witch. She works in her grandmother’s bookshop, where she helps loan out books about magic spells and helps investigate any supernatural occurrences. One night, Nova, curious about the reports of a white wolf, goes into the wood where she sees her childhood crush, Tam Lang, battling a horse demon. It turns out her childhood crush is a werewolf. Pursued by dark forces eager to claim the magic of wolves and out of options, Tam turns to Nova for help. In this enchanting tale of self-discovery, their latent feelings are rekindled against the backdrop of witchcraft, untested magic, occult rituals, and family ties, both new and old.
Why do we recommend this book?
This book was so cute. It is a perfect book about magic, what family is all about, and with a great romance. The characters were fantastic, and the artwork was fabulous. Although the cover says “Mooncakes,” there is no single scene with baking. So please don’t go into it expecting anything related to baking. Other than that, this book is wholesome and so adorable.
To buy/gift Mooncakes, click on the below link:
I hope you find some graphic novels that would sound interesting to you and love them as much as I did.
P.S: Some books recommended here are available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, you can read these books. Also, check out this article: Is Kindle Unlimited Worth It?
SO, to conclude, here is the list of the 12 Best Graphic Novels of All Time:
1 | Fence Vol 1- 4 by C.S. Pacat | Buy Now |
2 | Saga Vol 1- 9 by Brian K. Vaughan | Buy Now |
3 | Fangs by Sarah Anderson | Buy Now |
4 | Heartstopper Vol 1- 4 by Alice Oseman | Buy Now |
5 | Monstress Vol 1- 6 by Marjorie M. Liu | Buy Now |
6 | Paper Girls Vol 1- 6 by Brian K. Vaughan | Buy Now |
7 | Ghosted in L.A. Vol 1- 3 by Sina Grace | Buy Now |
8 | Something is Killing the Children Vol 1- 5 by James Tynion IV | Buy Now |
9 | The Prince and The Dressmaker by Jen Wang | Buy Now |
10 | Locke & Key Vol 1- 6 by Joe Hill | Buy Now |
11 | The Tea Dragon Society Series by Kay O’Neill | Buy Now |
12 | Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker | Buy Now |
We hope this list of the 12 Best Graphic Novels of All Time helped you pick your recommendation. Do read them all. They are fun.
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