As children's librarians, our very favorite gifts to give and receive are books. If you want to make a librarian's day, ask them what book they should give someone as a gift. Even though you didn't ask, here's a list of new comic books from this year that we think would make great gifts.
By Cale Atkinson
Toronto, ON: Tundra, 2021. Graphic novel.
This early reader graphic novel is the start of a new series about an unlikely pair of best friends -- Chester, a little boy, and Simon, a ghost. In their first comic book adventure, Chester is wanting to play dress up and Simon is more interested in writing his mystery novel, until Chester finds a detective hat and Simon decides they should solve a mystery. Readers will solve the mystery alongside the duo and will appreciate seeing their friendship strain and grow under pressure. This is a delightful graphic novel for young readers.
By Dan Schedit
Illustrated by Miranda Harmon
New York: RH Graphic, 2021. Graphic novel.
Do you have kids in your family that wish Dav Pilkey would write the Dog Man books faster? This hilarious comic book is sure to appeal. The town of Greenwood elects a fluffy, friendly, nap-happy dog named Good Boy as mayor -- to the displeasure of some constituents. This book follows siblings Aaron and Abby as they help the new dog mayor to serve the citizens of the town. This book is laugh-out-loud funny, with a sweet central message about kids getting involved in their communities -- even in small ways.
By Jordan Quinn
Illustrated by Ornella Greco
New York: Little Simon, 2021. Graphic novel.
In this comic spinoff of the popular chapter book series, Ruskin is the pet dragon of the Prince of Wrenly. He has never known a life outside his pampered world within the palace. One day, a young dragon comes to the palace begging Ruskin for help to defeat an evil curse that threatens to destroy all of Wrenly. For chapter book readers, this is a fun and promising new fantasy series.
By Nadia Shammas
Illustrated by Nabi H. Ali
New York: Graphix, 2021. Graphic novel.
Ever since Kamala Khan developed her superpowers and became Ms. Marvel, she has been stretched way too thin. She's trying to be a good student, a good daughter, a good friend, keep her fanfic fans happy and train to become a superhero alongside Miles Morales and Doreen Green. When an evil robot infiltrates Avengers Tower, it's up to Kamala to pull herself together and save the day. This is a fun new graphic novel for superhero fans and readers who like strong girls.
By Yehudi Mercado
New York: Harper Alley, 2021. Graphic novel.
This full-color graphic novel memoir follows Mexican Jewish middle schooler Hudi. Because of a variety of injuries and other health issues, Hudi is a regular at his local hospital where he keeps the medical staff laughing with his jokes. His doctors and parents are concerned that Hudi's weight may cause additional health problems, and so his mother and father decide to enroll him in one team sport after another, despite Hudi's ineptitude. Still, Hudi begins making friends and not just with his fuchsia-colored imaginary friend named Chunky. This is a hilarious and spirited memoir, that will also speak to kids struggling to please their parents and fit in.
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