Graphic Novels For Kids That Adults Will Enjoy

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If you think graphic novels are just for kids, it might be time to take another look. Today’s graphic novels are filled with heartfelt stories, unforgettable characters, laugh-out-loud humor, and meaningful themes that readers of all ages can appreciate. While they’re written with younger audiences in mind, many of them tackle topics like friendship, family, courage, identity, and resilience in ways that resonate just as much with adults.

I never thought I would enjoy a graphic novel. I just thought they would be too childish and boring for me. I was wrong! Very wrong. A bookclub that includes a graphic novel every year challenged us to just try it and I can’t believe how much I loved it! Honestly, when I was a kid I enjoyed comics in the paper and enjoyed comic books so this should have been a no brainer but it wasn’t.

Whether you’re a parent looking for books to enjoy with your child, a grandparent searching for the perfect gift, a teacher building a classroom library, or simply a lifelong reader who loves discovering great stories, graphic novels deserve a place on your bookshelf. Their illustrations, and storytelling will keep you enthralled the whole time!

In this list, you’ll find some of the best graphic novels for kids that adults will genuinely enjoy reading too. These are books you’ll want to recommend, share, and maybe even keep for yourself.

Graphic Novels For Kids That Adults Will Enjoy

Swim Team: Small Waves. Big Changes. by Annie Christmas

This was is great in teaching perseverance, bravery to try something new, and the love of family and friends.

A splashy, contemporary middle grade graphic novel from bestselling comics creator Johnnie Christmas! Bree can’t wait for her first day at her new middle school, Enith Brigitha, home to the Mighty Manatees—until she’s stuck with the only elective that fits her schedule, the dreaded Swim 101. The thought of swimming makes Bree more than a little queasy, yet she’s forced to dive headfirst into one of her greatest fears.

Lucky for her, Etta, an elderly occupant of her apartment building and former swim team captain, is willing to help. With Etta’s training and a lot of hard work, Bree suddenly finds her swim-crazed community counting on her to turn the school’s failing team around. But that’s easier said than done, especially when their rival, the prestigious Holyoke Prep, has everything they need to leave the Mighty Manatees in their wake. Can Bree defy the odds and guide her team to a state championship, or have the Manatees swum their last lap—for good?

Dragon Hoops by Gene Luen Yang

This was my first graphic novel and I LOVED it! I enjoy comeback stories and winning spirits. This captures both. Do not pass on this if you feel you are not a basketball fan. I promise you, it doesn’t matter. You will love it anyway.

Gene has always loved stories, especially comic books where heroes overcome impossible odds. Sports, however, have never been his thing. After plenty of awkward experiences on the basketball court as a kid, he left the game behind for good.

Now a high school teacher, Gene finds himself surrounded by excitement over the school’s varsity basketball team, the Dragons, as they put together their best season in decades. As he spends time getting to know the players, he realizes their determination, teamwork, and pursuit of a state championship make for a story every bit as compelling as his favorite comics.

What begins as simple curiosity turns into an unforgettable journey that leaves a lasting impact—not only on the talented young athletes chasing their dreams, but on Gene himself.

The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien by John Hendrix

This engaging graphic nonfiction book tells the story of the lifelong friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Through a blend of prose and comic-style illustrations, it explores how their experiences, faith, and encouragement of one another helped shape their legendary stories and changed the way fantasy literature was viewed. Along the way, readers also learn about the Inklings and the lasting impact these two authors had on modern storytelling.

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Anne of Green Gables: A Graphic Novel by Mariah Marsden

Anne Shirley is an imaginative, talkative orphan whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is mistakenly sent to live with Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert at Green Gables. Although they were expecting a boy, Anne’s charm, optimism, and lively spirit soon win over the siblings and leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets.

Winnie-the-Pooh: The Graphic Novel by A.A.Milne, Adapter by Kevan Chandler & Joe Sutphin

This one will be out soon for Winnie the Pooh’s 100 year anniversary. I love Winnie the Pooh so much! This beautifully illustrated graphic adaptation brings all ten original Winnie-the-Pooh stories to life with charming artwork and vibrant scenes that capture the timeless magic of the Hundred Acre Wood. Join Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Christopher Robin, and friends on their beloved adventures in a delightful edition that’s perfect for both new readers and longtime fans.

The Hiding Place: A Graphic Novel by Corrie ten Boom, Elizabeth Sherrill, & John Sherrill

This is of course is a sad time in history so keep that in mind with age groups for this one.

This powerful graphic novel tells the true story of Corrie ten Boom and her family’s courageous efforts to hide Jews and others from the Nazis during World War II. After their arrest and imprisonment in concentration camps, Corrie’s unwavering faith and hope continue to shine through. Brought to life with more than 1,500 full-color illustrations, this inspiring adaptation shares a remarkable story of courage, sacrifice, and God’s faithfulness in the darkest of times.

When Stars are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson,& Omar Mohamed

This is an amazing story about immigrant camps. I learned so much and I really enjoyed it.

Based on the true story of Omar Mohamed, this moving graphic novel follows two brothers growing up in the Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya. When Omar is given the chance to attend school, he must balance his hopes for a better future with caring for his younger brother. Filled with resilience, compassion, and hope, this unforgettable story offers a powerful look at life as a refugee through the eyes of someone who lived it.

Frizzy: A Graphic Novel by Claribel A. Ortega

All of us at one point or another feel self conscious about something. Our adolescent years, it can be the worst. This is such a well done graphic novel that shows the things we hate the most about us is often our greatest assets.

Marlene would rather spend her time reading, hanging out with her best friend, or visiting her fun Aunt Ruby than worrying about her appearance. But when she’s pressured to straighten her naturally curly hair, she begins a journey of self-acceptance. This heartfelt graphic novel celebrates embracing who you are, loving what makes you unique, and finding the confidence to be yourself.

Starfish by Lisa Fipps

Ellie has spent years dealing with bullying about her weight and following self-imposed rules to avoid drawing attention to herself. The one place she truly feels free is in the swimming pool, where she can simply be herself. With the support of her dad, therapist, and a new friend, Ellie begins to challenge the hurtful messages she’s believed and discovers the confidence to embrace who she is. This heartfelt graphic novel explores self-acceptance, friendship, and learning to love yourself.

New Kid: A Story About Fitting In, School Diversity, and Friendship by Jerry Craft

Jordan Banks dreams of attending art school, but instead finds himself at a prestigious private school where he struggles to fit in as one of the few students of color. As he balances life between his neighborhood and his new school, Jordan learns valuable lessons about friendship, identity, and staying true to himself. This award-winning graphic novel is both funny and thought-provoking.

In conclusion

I never thought I would enjoy a graphic novel but I was wrong! They are a lot of fun to read and truly hard to put down. If you have never tried one, challenge yourself to add one to your TBR list!