We love Dog Man as much as the next kid (or adult), but there’s a whole universe of graphic novels out there just waiting to be devoured. From laugh-out-loud adventures to heartwarming coming-of-age stories, graphic novels make reading feel like play — even for reluctant readers.
Here are some of our favorite graphic novels for kids that go beyond Dog Man, with epic illustrations, unforgettable characters, and stories that stick with you.
📘 New Kid by Jerry Craft
Best for: Ages 9–13
Summary:
Jordan Banks is a bright, artistic kid who dreams of going to art school, but instead ends up at a prestigious private academy where he feels completely out of place. As one of the only kids of color in his grade, Jordan must learn to navigate a new social landscape full of confusing rules, culture clashes, and subtle (and not-so-subtle) racism. With humor, honesty, and striking visuals, this Newbery Medal–winning graphic novel dives deep into identity, belonging, and the awkwardness of middle school — and it does it all with heart.
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📗 El Deafo by Cece Bell
Best for: Ages 8–12
Summary:
Cece Bell’s semi-autobiographical graphic novel follows her as a young girl adjusting to life after losing her hearing due to illness. Starting at a new school with a bulky hearing aid strapped to her chest — the Phonic Ear — Cece feels like an outsider. But that same device also gives her the unexpected ability to hear things other kids can’t, like her teacher in the hallway… or the bathroom. What begins as a struggle turns into a hilarious and powerful journey of self-acceptance, friendship, and embracing your inner superhero — complete with her alter ego, El Deafo.
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📙 InvestiGators by John Patrick Green
Best for: Ages 7–10
Summary:
This action-packed (and absurdly funny) graphic novel series stars two alligator detectives, Mango and Brash, who work for the S.U.I.T. agency — Special Undercover Investigation Teams. Together, they use their wacky gadgets, slapstick humor, and reptilian charm to foil evil plots and rescue the day. Packed with puns, visual gags, and explosive silliness, InvestiGators is a high-energy mystery series that hooks kids from the first page. With multiple books already out, it’s perfect for fans who want more goofy adventures after Dog Man.
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📒 Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
Best for: Ages 9–13
Summary:
Twelve-year-old Astrid signs up for roller derby camp expecting it to be a shared summer adventure with her best friend — but instead, she finds herself skating solo and struggling to stay on her feet both literally and emotionally. As Astrid trains to become fierce on the track, she learns about perseverance, handling change, and what real friendship looks like. This full-color graphic novel is a Newbery Honor winner and beautifully captures the messy, empowering, and rollercoaster-like ride of growing up. Bonus: If your reader loves this one, Jamieson has other titles to check out too (All’s Faire in Middle School, When Stars Are Scattered).
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📕 The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner
Best for: Ages 8–12
Summary:
Moth Hush is just your average, awkward teen — until a dramatic Halloween incident reveals that she comes from a long line of powerful witches. Suddenly, she’s dealing with magical powers, family secrets, and talking cats. (Yes, cats. Plural.) Set in a town with a dark history of witch persecution, The Okay Witch blends humor, fantasy, and coming-of-age themes in a unique and beautifully illustrated story. It’s also the first in a series, followed by The Okay Witch and the Hungry Shadow, which dives even deeper into Moth’s magical journey.
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📓 Amulet series by Kazu Kibuishi
Best for: Ages 8–13
Summary:
This wildly popular fantasy series begins when siblings Emily and Navin move into their great-grandfather’s mysterious old house and are quickly pulled into a hidden world filled with robots, talking animals, and dangerous foes. Emily discovers she is a “Stonekeeper,” chosen to wield a powerful amulet — but with that power comes great responsibility, as well as incredible danger. Across the eight-book (and counting) series, Emily must fight to save her family, her friends, and the world she never expected to be part of. With cinematic artwork and fast-paced storytelling, Amulet is a go-to for fantasy lovers and reluctant readers alike.
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📙 Absolutely Nat by Maria Scrivan
Best for: Ages 8–12
Summary:
Natalie (aka Nat) is heading to summer camp, but instead of carefree days, she’s met with awkward bunkmates, confusing friendships, bug bites, and no Wi-Fi. It’s the third book in the Nat Enough series, and this one brings all the camp chaos, middle-school meltdowns, and heartfelt humor that readers love. As Nat learns to survive cabin life and stay true to herself, she also discovers that being “enough” has nothing to do with fitting in. This series is a great pick for fans of Dork Diaries and Smile — full of laughs, relatable struggles, and feel-good moments.
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