Early Readers and Graphic Novels

As a children’s librarian, I feel very disheartened when I hear young patrons tell me, “I don’t like books.”

At times like this, I introduce them to graphic novels. The appealing visual format attracts readers who are intimidated or turned off by traditional books, for whatever reason. The art and wit of graphic novels engage reluctant readers, as they are less wordy and therefore less overwhelming. Their unique format helps readers to build endurance, confidence, and interest in reading.  The presence of speech bubbles, facial expressions, and body gestures makes it easier to understand the context and characters. By starting out reading graphic novels, it is hoped that these reluctant young readers gradually develop an interest in traditional books.

The Mercer County Library System has an excellent collection of Graphic Novels under the call number J 741.5. Browse our library catalog to find thousands of juvenile graphic novels – in both physical and eBook formats - to keep children interested in reading.

Below is a sample of ready-to-read graphic novels:

Red Titan and the Floor of Lava by Ryan Kaji

"Red Titan and his friends want to have a picnic, but ... the floor is lava! Will Red Titan be able to use his super strength and his scientific observational skills to save the day?"-- Provided by publisher

Baloney and Friends by Greg Pizzoli

"Meet Baloney! He's a pig. This book is about him. And also Peanut, his best friend. There's Bizz, too, of course. And Krabbit. He'd rather not be here, but what can you do?"--Provided by publisher.

Hoggy Went-a-Courtin' by Ethan Long

"Hoggy hogs the ball on the court with his friends until his sisters teaches him to share"-- Provided by publisher.

Pizza and Taco: Who’s the Best by Stephen Shaskan

"Best friends Pizza and Taco agree on nearly everything until Pizza declares himself the best of all, leading to debating, voting, competing, and finally defining what being the best really means." -- Provided by publisher.

Lemon Bird: Can Help! by Paulina Ganucheau

"Lemon Bird and her new best friend, Pupkin, are lost! It will take some quick thinking, and the help of those they meet on the way, to help these two friends make it back to their home. It's not long before Lemon Bird and Pupkin realize they can help those in need as well! After all, they may be lost but that doesn't mean they can't be a good friend"-- Provided by publisher.

Forever Truffle by Fanny Britt

"Fanny Britt and Isabelle Arsenault are back with a new graphic novel, this time featuring Truffle, younger brother, best friend, aspiring rockstar ..."-- Provided by publisher.

Scaredy Squirrel Gets a Surprise by Melanie Watt

Scaredy Squirrel opens a mysterious crate containing a pool and as his friends try to help him enjoy the pool, Scaredy Squirrel learns that not all surprises are bad.

Kraken Me Up by Jeffrey Ebbeler

When Izzie brings her pet Kraken to the county fair everyone thinks he is frightening, but he is like Izzie, sweet and shy, and Kraken and Izzie use creativity and humor to win over the crowd.

Meet the Super Duper Seven by Tim Hamilton

The Super Duper Seven are holding auditions for their crime-fighting superhero club but Hungry Kitty keeps eating members of the team.

Pizza and Taco: Too Cool for School by Stephen Shaskan

Best friends Pizza and Taco are ready to head back to school, but there are lots of other cool kids, like Cheeseburger and B.L.T.

Flight or Fright by Drew Brockington

Waffles, Pancake, and Mom-Cat go to visit Gramps and Grammers, but this is the kittens' first time flying on an airplane, and Waffles is a little nervous.

- by Chetna Kukreja, Ewing Branch