14 Best Graphic Novels for Middle School Students

Middle school students are at a unique stage in their reading development, where they are starting to explore reading materials beyond simple chapter books. Graphic novels are a fantastic way to encourage reading and engage middle schoolers in the joy of exploring new worlds, characters, and stories. In this article, we will explore the world of graphic novels and showcase the best options for your middle schooler’s reading needs.

14 Best Graphic Novels for Middle School Students

Why Graphic Novels Are Great for Middle Schoolers

Graphic novels are an excellent choice for middle schoolers for several reasons. Firstly, they provide a visual medium that can help break down the barriers of reading comprehension. The combination of text and imagery helps readers understand the plot, character traits, setting, and themes of a story better. Secondly, they allow for an immersive reading experience, one that can help encourage even the most reluctant readers. Thirdly, graphic novels serve as a springboard to exploring diverse stories and genres, helping middle schoolers develop a love of reading.

Benefits of Reading Graphic Novels

There are several benefits to reading graphic novels. One benefit is that they can enhance visual literacy skills. Visual literacy is the ability to decode, interpret and understand visual information. The images, panels, and illustrations in graphic novels require readers to analyze, interpret and synthesize information, thus improving their visual literacy skills.

Another benefit is that graphic novels help expand vocabulary. The combination of visual and textual elements helps readers understand new words by providing context, thus expanding their vocabulary. Also, graphic novels require readers to infer meaning from textual and visual cues, which helps develop critical thinking and comprehension skills. Lastly, the use of graphic novels in the classroom is an innovative and creative way to teach different types of literature, enhancing student engagement and motivation in English classes.

Engaging Reluctant Readers

For many middle schoolers, reading can be a chore or something they are not interested in doing. However, graphic novels can help engage even the most reluctant readers. The visual elements of graphic novels can pique their curiosity and provide more context for the story. The shorter length can also help break down reading tasks into more manageable chunks, making it less overwhelming and more enjoyable for students who may struggle with reading.

Furthermore, the visual elements can help scaffold students’ comprehension of the text. For example, students who have difficulty understanding figurative language or descriptive writing can rely on the images to help them understand the text better. Additionally, the use of graphic novels can help promote interdisciplinary skills, such as critical thinking, art appreciation, and media literacy.

Enhancing Visual Literacy Skills

Visual literacy is an essential skill that is necessary for students to succeed in the 21st century. Graphic novels can help enhance visual literacy skills by providing an interactive medium for students to explore. They present a unique engagement opportunity for students to analyze and interpret images and text, which can help expand their understanding of the story. Visual cues, such as facial expressions, color choices, and panel arrangement in graphic novels, are essential elements of communication, and students can use these cues to enhance engagement with the story.

Top Graphic Novels for Different Age Groups

Graphic novels are a fantastic way to engage young readers in literature and storytelling. They combine the visual appeal of comics with the depth and complexity of traditional novels, making them a perfect choice for readers of all ages. Here are some of the best graphic novels for different age groups.

Best Graphic Novels for Younger Middle Schoolers (Ages 10-12)

For younger middle schoolers, aged 10-12, graphic novels that promote fun, adventure, and creativity are excellent choices. These books are perfect for encouraging a love of reading and inspiring young imaginations.

Awkward”

Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School Book 1)

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova – This graphic novel explores the theme of friendship and the challenges of fitting in, making it an excellent choice for middle schoolers. The story follows a young girl named Penelope as she navigates the social dynamics of middle school and learns to embrace her unique qualities.

“Smile”

Smile: A Graphic Novel

Smile by Raina Telgemeier – This graphic novel explores the humorous and relatable tale of middle school life. The story follows Raina, a young girl who struggles with dental issues and the ups and downs of friendship, as she navigates the challenges of growing up.

“Cardboard Kingdom”

The Cardboard Kingdom: (A Graphic Novel)

Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell – This graphic novel showcases the creativity and fun of imaginative play, a perfect fit for younger middle school readers. The story follows a group of neighborhood kids as they use their imaginations to create an entire kingdom out of cardboard boxes.

Best Graphic Novels for Older Middle Schoolers (Ages 13-14)

For older middle schoolers, aged 13-14, graphic novels that tackle more complex themes, character development, and emotional realism are excellent choices. These books are perfect for encouraging critical thinking and empathy, and for helping readers explore important social and cultural issues.

“Hey, Kiddo”

Hey, Kiddo: A Graphic Novel

Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett J. Krosoczka – This graphic novel explores the theme of family and the concept of resilience, making it an excellent choice for older middle schoolers. The story follows the author’s own life, as he reflects on his childhood growing up with a mother who struggles with addiction.

“Persepolis”

Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi – This graphic novel explores the coming-of-age experience of a young Iranian girl in the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution, making it a great choice for exploring different cultures and historical events. The story follows Marjane as she navigates the complexities of growing up in a politically turbulent time.

“Maus I and II

Maus 1 and 2 (2 Volume Box Set)

Maus I and II by Art Spiegelman – These graphic novels are an excellent choice for exploring the history of the Holocaust and offer a poignant reflection on the complexities of family relationships. The story follows the author’s own father, a Holocaust survivor, as he reflects on his experiences during the war and the impact they had on his family.

No matter what age group you’re shopping for, there’s a graphic novel out there that’s perfect for your reader. With their engaging illustrations and compelling stories, graphic novels are a great way to inspire a lifelong love of reading.

Exploring Various Genres of Graphic Novels

Graphic novels are a great way to get kids interested in reading. They combine the visual appeal of comics with the depth and complexity of traditional novels. There are many different genres of graphic novels, each with its own unique style and subject matter. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular genres of graphic novels for middle schoolers.

Adventure and Action

Bone: The Complete Cartoon Epic in One Volume

If you’re looking for high-stakes stories filled with thrills and excitement, adventure and action graphic novels are the perfect choice. These stories are often set in exotic locations and feature daring heroes battling against impossible odds. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include Bone by Jeff Smith, Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi, and Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel by Eoin Colfer & Andrew Donkin.

One of the great things about adventure and action graphic novels is that they can help kids develop their problem-solving skills. As they follow the hero’s journey, they will encounter obstacles and challenges that require creative thinking and perseverance to overcome.

Mystery and Suspense

Goldie Vance Vol. 1

If you love a good whodunit, mystery and suspense graphic novels are the perfect choice. These stories are often set in dark and mysterious locations, and feature complex plots and intriguing characters. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include Goldie Vance by Hope Larson & Brittney Williams, Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol, and The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks.

Mystery and suspense graphic novels can help kids develop their critical thinking skills. As they try to solve the mystery alongside the protagonist, they will need to pay close attention to details and use deductive reasoning to uncover the truth.

Science Fiction and Fantasy

Heartstopper #1: A Graphic Novel

If you love exploring new worlds and characters, science fiction and fantasy graphic novels are the perfect choice. These stories often take place in far-off galaxies or magical kingdoms, and feature fantastical creatures and advanced technology. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, Lowriders in Space by Cathy Camper & Raul the Third, and Lumberjanes by Noelle Stevenson & Shannon Waters.

Science fiction and fantasy graphic novels can help kids develop their imagination and creativity. As they explore these new worlds, they will be inspired to think outside the box and come up with their own ideas for stories and characters.

Historical Fiction

Roller Girl

If you’re interested in history and exploring different cultures, historical fiction graphic novels are the perfect choice. These stories are often set in different time periods and feature real historical figures and events. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include Feather by Debra Dean & Traudi Strubel, Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson, and Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo by Ben Costa & James Parks.

Historical fiction graphic novels can help kids develop their empathy and understanding of different cultures and time periods. As they immerse themselves in these stories, they will gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of people who lived in different times and places.

Non-Fiction and Biographies

March: Book One

If you’re interested in learning about real people, events, and places, non-fiction and biography graphic novels are the perfect choice. These stories are often based on true events and feature real people and places. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include March by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell, Good Talk by Mira Jacob, and They Called Us Enemy by George Takei, Justin Eisinger, Steven Scott, and Harmony Becker.

Non-fiction and biography graphic novels can help kids develop their understanding of the world around them. As they learn about real people and events, they will gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of history and the impact that individuals can have on the world.

Diverse and Inclusive Graphic Novels

Featuring Strong Female Characters

Nimona: A Netflix Film

Graphic novels that feature strong female characters are excellent choices for middle schoolers. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include Nimona by Noelle Stevenson, Sisters by Raina Telgemeier, and Batgirl of Burnside by Cameron Stewart, Babs Tarr, and Brenden Fletcher.

Stories with Diverse Cultural Backgrounds

American Born Chinese

Graphic novels that showcase diverse cultural backgrounds are perfect choices for middle schoolers. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang, Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi, and The Shadow Hero by Gene Luen Yang and Sonny Liew.

Graphic Novels Addressing Social Issues

Skim

Graphic novels that address social issues such as identity, race and discrimination are excellent choices for middle schoolers. Examples of graphic novels in this genre include Skim by Mariko Tamaki and Jillian Tamaki, Stargazing by Jen Wang, and I Am Alfonso Jones by Tony Medina, Stacey Robinson, and John Jennings.

Conclusion

Graphic novels are an excellent choice for middle schoolers of all reading levels and interests. They provide a unique medium for teachers and parents to quickly engage students and expose them to stories and cultures they may otherwise not encounter. With the wide variety of genres, themes, and styles available, there is a graphic novel for every middle schooler.

FAQs

Why should middle schoolers read graphic novels?

Graphic novels are a great tool for developing intuition and an eye for detail. Rather than relying on prose to tell the story, the reader must connect the dialogue with the image to create meaning.

Why are graphic novels more expensive than standard novels?

When a graphic novel is printed, it requires the use of significantly more ink to capture the details in the rich images. Subsequently, they cost more to produce.

What is the most popular middle-grade graphic novel?

There are numerous popular middle-grade graphic novels, including New Kid by Jerry Craft, The Witch Boy by Molly Ostertag, and Twins by Varian Johnson.

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Eddison Monroe
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