Graphic novels have wide appeal to readers of all ages. However, graphic novels are not one size fits all. Just like novels in prose are complex, multi-layered, and appropriate at different stages in life, so, too, are graphic novels. The following titles appeal to early readers in grades K-2 because of the fast-paced wording and short chapters. Readers will be able to learn the directional flow of stories in this format and really have a visual of left to right, top to bottom. The stories are silly, playful, and full of imagination. Most of these are the start of a series—so your child will have lots more to look forward to!

Poppy & Sam and the Leaf Thief by Cathon

Who in the garden is responsible for Basil plant’s leaves being eaten? Poppy and Sam are on the case!

 

 

 

 

Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea! by Ben Clanton

Narwhal has never met a jellyfish, and Jelly has never met a narwhal. Once they establish that neither is imaginary, they go about building a friendship and inviting others to join their pod!

 

 

 

 

Ogres Awake! by James Sturm, Andrew Arnold, Alexis Frederick-Frost

The ogres are asleep right outside the castle walls, but watch out, because they're very cranky when they wake up! There is a plan in place to make them happy when they wake up, but what do potatoes have to do with it?

 

 

Smell My Foot! by Cece Bell

Chick is very concerned by the fact that those around them have no manners! Brain is very adamant that others smell their foot. And so, Chick accepts an invitation from Spot the dog to go to lunch just to be polite, not realizing Spot has ulterior motives. Brain's smelly foot (and impoliteness) saves the day.

 

 

 

 

Belinda the Unbeatable by Lee Nordling and Scott Roberts

It's time for gym and Belinda is ready! The class is playing musical chairs, and in the excitement of the game, the gym morphs into a fantasy landscape with musical notes dancing around. One by one, her classmates are out of the game, and it comes down to Belinda and her friend. Who will be victorious in this competition?

 

 

 

Baloney and Friends by Greg Pizzoli

Short stories featuring Baloney the pig and his friends. Know how to make your friends disappear? Read along to find out! This book also includes how to draw the various characters and Pizzoli's signature blend of humor and bright illustrations.

 

 

 

 

Pea, Bee, & Jay: Stuck Together by Brian Smith

On a dare, Pea goes all the way past the fence of the farm, where no other pea has gone before! Once outside, Pea meets Bee, a bee, and Jay, a blue jay. Neither Bee nor Jay turn out to be who it was assumed they were. This story speaks to the value of courage, friendship, and coming to terms with who you are.

 

 

 

Owly: The Way Home by Andy Runton

Owly befriends Wormy and the rest is history! Throughout this series, Owly and Wormy go on various adventures and learn a few lessons along the way. The wordless storyline allows for the reader to imagine possible dialogues.

 

 

 

 

King of the Birds by Elise Gravel

Arlo moves to the big city and meets Pips, who shows Arlo around in two continuous short stories: The Big City and The Beach. The dialogue between the two birds is hilarious and the author has included some helpful footnotes that detail facts about crows.

 

 

 

 

The Great Pet Escape by Victoria Jamieson 

Tonight's the night. After a lot of planning, the hamster will lead his friends, the rabbit and guinea pig, out of lower elementary confinement. What he did not plan for was for them to want to stay and for the upper elementary class pets to get in the way!

 

 

 

 

Tiger vs. Nightmare by Emily Tetri

There is a monster under Tiger's bed! But, this monster is Tiger's friend, who fights off her nightmares while she sleeps. There is a big, new nightmare that Monster can't fight by themselves, so the friends have to team up and fight smart. A little spooky, but full of heart!

 

 

 

Donut Feed the Squirrels by Mika Song

Norma has burned the pancake breakfast, but hold on, what's that new smell? A food truck is churning out doughnuts and the squirrels simply must get some, no matter what!