Superheroes, D&D, boba and zombie battles rock The Beat’s list of anticipated kids and middle graphic novels for Fall 2023.
The action starts in October with fresh takes by Victoria Ying (HUNGRY GHOST), Molly Knox Ostertag (THE GIRL FROM THE SEA), Xanthe Bouma, Grace Ellis (LUMBERJANES) and Penelope Rivera Gaylord on the D&D and superhero franchises. Faith Erin Hicks (who also has a YA book on the anticipated YA and adults graphic novel list for Fall 2023) returns with a new AVATAR story. Elisa Stone Leahy tackles bullying and ICE while Jamia Wilson collaborates with Jade Orlando on an empowering anthology that celebrates the many layers and dimensions of Black life. Liz Prince (TOMBOY) dishes on frog facts while Clar Angkasa gives a feminist retelling of an Indonesian folktale. October ends with Juni Ba (MONKEY MEAT) and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou teaming together on an original graphic novel about a monster’s quest for redemption and growth.
Moving into November, it’s sci-fi, fantasy and fun with Vivian Zhou, Joanna Cacao, Blexbolex and Zack Soto. In addition to the ninth LAST KIDS ON EARTH book (scheduled for late November), Douglas Holgate adapts Chris Grabenstein’s award-winning MR. LEMONCELLO series into a graphic novel. And –no pun intended–two spud siblings face off in a laugh-out-loud high stakes potato sack race in Ben Clanton’s (NARWHAL AND JELLY) new series. Marieke Nijkamp and Sylvia Bi craft an inspiring story about fighting censorship.
Fall concludes with the December release of Tui T. Sutherland’s and Mike Holmes’ seventh WINGS OF FIRE graphic novel and a new Guardians of the Galaxy adventure with Rocket and Groot by Amanda Deibert and Cam Kendall.
Without further ado, let’s dive into the month-by-month listing of anticipated kids and middle grade graphic novels for Fall 2023!
Kids and Middle Grade Graphic Novels for Fall 2023 – October
Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Club: Roll Call
Writer: Molly Knox Ostertag
Artist: Xanthe Bouma
Publisher: HarperAlley
Release Date: Nov. 29 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 29 (Bookstores)
List Price: $19.99 Hardcover / $15.99 Paperback
From New York Times bestselling author Molly Knox Ostertag and critically acclaimed illustrator Xanthe Bouma comes an all-new Dungeons & Dragons graphic novel series!
Middle school is a dungeon… At least, that’s how Jess sees it.
Luckily, she and her best friend Olivia know how to escape into the sprawling worlds of their own imaginations. The two friends have always loved making up stories, first with little kid games of make-believe, and more recently with the fantasy roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons. When they play, Olivia runs the game as Dungeon Master and Jess is the solo party member, playing a take-no-prisoners, lone-wolf fighter of her own design named Sir Corius.
But when Olivia wants to add new players to their group, Jess finds herself struggling to share their game–and her best friend. Will their epic campaign withstand all this change, or has their adventure–and their friendship–finally come to an end?
Lost Time
Author: Tas Mukanik
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: Oct. 4 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 3 (Bookstores)
List Price: $22.99 Hardcover / $13.99 Paperback
Twelve-year-old Evie didn’t mean to get lost—especially in the Cretaceous period! Now she’s alone, without her parents or anyone else to turn to for help. That is until she rescues a baby pterosaur and raises it on her own. As the baby grows into a giraffe-sized flying reptile, which Evie names Ada, the two manage to to find a way to survive in the prehistoric wilderness.
But Evie will have to risk everything when she makes a discovery that may just be her only chance of returning home. Putting Ada’s flying skills to the ultimate test, the duo must embark on a journey halfway across the world—battling all nature throws at them, from fearsome dinosaurs to raging storms. Will Evie manage to overcome all the odds and find a way back to her family… or is she truly lost in time?
Shang-Chi and the Quest for Immortality: An Original Marvel Graphic Novel
Author: Victoria Ying
Publisher: Graphix
Release Date: Oct. 4 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 3 (Bookstores)
List Price: $12.99 Paperback
Marvel break-out Shang-Chi sets off to unlock the keys to immortality and save his father in this all-new, original graphic novel adventure!
Twelve-year-old Shang-Chi and and his younger sister, Shi-Hua, are the only children in the grand palace of the Five Weapons Society. Their father, Zheng-Zu, is a harsh master, and all Shang-Chi wants is to prove himself in his father’s eyes.
So when he overhears that his father’s powers may be waning and discovers an ancient scroll that might be the key to helping him get those powers back, Shang-Chi knows exactly what to do. For the first time in his life, he sneaks out of the palace and into the outside world, hoping to return with one of the legendary Peaches of Immortality to gift his father.
But the world beyond the palace is very different from everything Shang-Chi has been taught, especially a boy called Lu, who knows more about Zheng-Zu than he should. With his home and father’s health on the line, Shang-Chi cannot fail in his quest–but does his father deserve to be saved?
Strikers
Writer: Kiel Phegley
Artist: Jacques Khouri
Publisher: Graphic Universe
Release Date: Oct. 4 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 3 (Bookstores)
List Price: $10.99 Paperback
Evan just wants to win a game. Bobby would rather fight than win.
Hockey–and life–keep handing them both losses. Their team, the Strikers, has a roster of rejects in hand-me-down coats but lacks good equipment, a deep bench, and a coach who shows up on time. Their town of Flint, Michigan, has been down on its luck their whole lives.
The boys may not understand each other, but together, they’ll find their reasons to keep taking the ice.
Strikers is a hilarious, hard hitting, and moving story about how to stay on your skates when you only see L’s in your future.
Saving H’non: Chang and the Elephant
Writer: Trang Nguyen
Artist: Jeet Zdung
Publisher: Dial Books
Release Date: Oct. 4 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 3 (Bookstores)
List Price: $23.99 Hardcover / $13.99 Paperback
From the creators behind the Eisner-nominated Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear comes another gorgeously-illustrated middle grade graphic novel adventure based on a true story, in which a young conservationist overcomes the odds to save and return an elephant to its natural habitat.
While volunteering at a wildlife rescue center near Yok Don National Park in Vietnam, Chang–a young, spirited animal lover–helps rescue an injured and abused Asian elephant named H’Non. For decades, H’Non was forced to haul heavy timber logs and concrete poles at construction sites, and then to carry riders at tourist attractions all day long with no break. While nursing H’Non back to health, Chang is tasked with finding a kind mahout–an elephant trainer–who will teach H’Non how to fend for herself in the wild. Though Chang initially has her doubts about Wat, the young mahout she finds, H’Non takes to him instantly. As her friendships with both H’Non and Wat grow, Chang learns what it takes to give people a chance. . . . And that we’re never too young or too old to make a difference in the world around us.
This heartfelt story–filled with breathtaking art and STEM facts galore–is for any young reader, animal lover, and intrepid explorer who’s ready for adventure!
Ellie in First Position
Writer: Brian Freschi
Artist: Elena Triolo
Translator: Nanette McGuinness
Publisher: Marble Press
Release Date: Oct. 3
List Price: $13.99 Paperback
Can a sport klutz reach her dream and dance? A charming and hilarious, slice of life, middle grade graphic novel about ten year old Electra who refuses to give up her dream to take ballet.
After moving, Ellie feels lonely in her new class. Mom has a solution, the girl needs to join the school’s sports team to make friends. There is only one problem, no matter what sport she tries Electra makes an utter fool of herself. In the middle of her misery, enchanted by her cousin’s ballet performance, Ellie suddenly knows what she wants more than anything, dancing. If only mom could agree.
A page turner, full of relatable conflicts, Ellie in First Position is a humorous, positive and heartwarming story about resilience, self-love, new experiences, and friendship. By the end of the book, Ellie doesn’t only learn to accept herself and her family, makes new friends and even has her first crush, but manages to deal with her bullies too.
The Discovery of Chess: The Asian Hall of Fame
Writers: Phil Amara, Oliver Chin
Artist: Juan Calle
Publisher: Immedium
Release Date: Oct. 3
List Price: $16.95 Hardcover
This amazingly illustrated storybook explores how chess originated and became the world’s most popular game.
Chess has never been more popular. Fueled by the 2020 pandemic-induced increase in leisure time and the Netflix television series The Queen’s Gambit, more people play chess than ever before. But do they know where the game originated?
The trio teleport to ancient India to see how rajahs moved their armies onto a playing board. Then the curious travelers zip back to the future as chess migrated westward, across oceans, continents, and the internet! Learn about how iconic pieces evolved, legendary players, and the game’s enduring cultural influence. Readers of all ages will develop a greater appreciation of the game of kings… and queens!
This is the fourth adventure in our series on cool inventions created in Asia. The cute red panda Dao makes history come alive by transporting the kids Emma and Ethan back in time. Now they explore the origin and evolution of chess!
Teachers and librarians will find this a great addition to their children’s picture book and illustrated collections. The influence of chess is boundless!
Tethered to the Stars
Author: Elisa Stone Leahy
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Release Date: Oct. 3
List Price: $19.99 Hardcover
Perfect for fans of Efrén Divided and A Good Kind of Trouble, this luminous middle grade debut follows a tween girl navigating the devastating impact of ICE’s looming presence on her family and community.
Seventh grader Wendy Toledo knows that black holes and immigration police have one thing in common: they can both make things disappear without a trace. When her family moves to a new all-American neighborhood, Wendy knows the plan: keep her head down, build a telescope that will win the science fair, and stay on her family’s safe orbit.
But that’s easier said than done when there’s a woman hiding out from ICE agents in the church across the alley–and making Wendy’s parents very nervous.
As bullying at school threatens Wendy’s friendships and her hopes for the science fair, and her family’s secrets start to unravel, Wendy finds herself caught in the middle of far too many gravitational pulls. When someone she loves is detained by ICE, Wendy must find the courage to set her own orbit–and maybe shift the paths of everyone around her.
I Am a Dinosaur (Super Magic Boy #1)
Author: Jarod Roselló
Publisher: Random House Graphic
Release Date: Oct. 4 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 3 (Bookstores)
List Price: $10.99 Hardcover
Crash, smash, and transform! An all-new graphic novel chapter book series filled with adventure, friendship, and dinosaurs.
Hugo can do whatever he wants! He can climb a mountain! Smash a table! He can even transform into a dinosaur like his best friend, Dino. When Hugo and Dino are together, they can use their imagination to do anything…even clean up the mess afterward!
Super Space Weekend: Adventures in Astronomy
Author: Gaëlle Alméras
Translator: David Warriner
Publisher: Greystone Kids
Release Date: Oct. 3
List Price: $21.95 Hardcover / $14.95 Paperback
This non-fiction graphic novel for kids 7+ takes readers on a thrilling voyage through our universe. Get ready for the ultimate astronomy adventure!
It’s a beautiful evening when Squeak, Orni, and Castor head out for a weekend of camping. But Squeak has a surprise: he’s hosting them all in his observatory, high at the top of a tree. The tree house is delightful–and fully equipped for the most incredible discoveries: in the sky and the stars, through the galaxy and beyond.
Readers join the three friends as they explore the night sky, our solar system, and how our universe was created. Super Space Weekend features:
Fascinating information about astronomy and space reviewed by scientists, including an astrophysicist and planetary scientist. Discover how to find the North Star, learn about the history of space exploration, and more!
Comic-style illustrations: shares Squeak, Orni and Castor’s thrilling space adventures through a graphic novel format
Captivating, funny, and highly informative, Super Space Weekend is the ultimate introduction to the world of astronomy.
Soccer Robots vs. Battle Robots: Book 1
Writer: Friend Podoal
Artist: Jong-Hyun Hong
Publisher: Graphic Universe
Release Date: Oct. 4 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 3 (Bookstores)
List Price: $15.99 Paperback
La Ion is happiest when he’s on the soccer field with friends. So when he transfers to a new school, he’s excited to see it has a soccer club.
But the kids he meets aren’t kicking a ball around–they’re controlling soccer robots! Soon La Ion is stuck in the middle of a rivalry between the robot-soccer club and its battle-robot rivals. Soccer Robots vs. Battle Robots kicks off the Robot Makers manhwa series with an introduction to robotics history, including key concepts, famous figures, power sources, and more.
Curlfriends: New in Town
Author: Sharee Miller
Publisher: Little, Brown Ink
Release Date: Oct. 11 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 10 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $12.99 Paperback
New Kid meets The Baby-sitters Club in this graphic novel series opener about the Curlfriends, four inseparable Black girls who show us the meaning of true friendship–and being your true self.
Charlie has a foolproof plan for the first day at her new middle school. Even though she’s used to starting over as the new kid–thanks to her military family’s constant moving–making friends has never been easy for her. But this time, her first impression needs to last, since this is where her family plans to settle for good.
So she’s hiding any interests that may seem “babyish,” updating her look, and doing her best to leave her shyness behind her…but is erasing the real Charlie the best way to make friends?
When not everything goes exactly to plan–like, AT ALL–Charlie is ready to give up on making new friendships. Then she meets the Curlfriends, a group of Black girls who couldn’t be more different from each other, and learns that maybe there is a place for Charlie to be her true self after all.
Look on the Bright Side
Writer: Lily Williams
Artist: Karen Schneemann
Publisher: First Second
Release Date: Oct. 11 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 10 (Bookstores)
List Price: $22.99 Hardcover / $14.99 Paperback
The creators of Eisner-nominated Go With the Flow Lily Williams and Karen Schneemann are back with a funny and heartwarming story following four best friends Brit, Abby, Christine, and Sasha in the graphic novel, Look on the Bright Side. Perfect for fans of Maria Scrivan’s NAT ENOUGH series!
With feelings running high and hearts on the line, will their friendship get them through a year at Hazelton High?
Old friends. New Loves. The future is looking bright.
A new year of school is starting, and Brit finds herself struggling with feelings for a seemingly rude boy from class who might have a soft side. Meanwhile, Christine can’t deny that she likes her best friend Abby…as more than just a friend. The only question is, does Abby have feelings for Christine, too? And will their feelings for each other mess things up in their friend group?
Misunderstandings, betrayal, and jealousy are bound to get in the way.
But hey! Look on the bright side: They’re in this together. Always.
Heartful, romantic, and sizzling with the excitement of navigating first love, Lily Williams and Karen Schneemann’s brilliant follow up to Go With the Flow is a bright spot you will not want to miss.
Looking Up
Author: Stephan Pastis
Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks
Release Date: Oct. 10
List Price: $13.99 Hardcover
From the New York Times bestselling author of the Timmy Failure series comes a quirky and heartwarming middle grade novel about a girl struggling with loneliness and the curveballs of life–featuring black and white illustrations throughout!
Living alone with her mother in a poorer part of town, Saint–a girl drawn to medieval knights, lost causes, and the protection of birthday piñatas–sees the neighborhood she has always known and loved disappearing around her: old homes being torn down and replaced by fancy condos and coffee shops. But when her favorite creaky old toy store is demolished, she knows she must act.
Enlisting the help of Daniel “Chance” McGibbons, a quiet, round-faced boy who lives across the street (and whose house also faces the wrecking ball), Saint hatches a plan to save what is left of her beloved hometown.
Diana and the Hero’s Journey
Writer: Grace Ellis
Artist: Penelope Rivera Gaylord
Publisher: DC Comics
Release Date: Oct. 10 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 10 (Bookstores)
List Price: $12.99 Paperback
It takes a village to raise a warrior…and the Amazons have a lot on their hands with Diana. Can she harness the power of truth and community to become the hero we know as WONDER WOMAN?
Curious and rambunctious Diana thinks she has the whole warrior thing figured out: punching, archery, sword fighting… But as the village prepares for a festival celebrating the story of Hero–the first hero in Greek mythology–Diana and her goat, Phyllis, cause such chaos that she must embark on a journey to…clean up her mess. With the help of the Amazon’s vivid yet unreliable retellings of Hero’s story, what starts out as a boring chore becomes an epic adventure as Diana learns what it truly means to be a hero.
From The New York Times bestselling co-creator of Lumberjanes, Grace Ellis, accompanied by the delightful artwork of Penelope Rivera Gaylord comes the story of a young hero who must embrace the support of her community to reach her full potential.
Zooni Tales: Keep It Up, Plucky Pup
Author: Vikram Madan
Publisher: Holiday House
Release Date: Oct. 10
List Price: $13.99 Hardcover / $8.99 Paperback
Fans of Baloney and Friends and Narwhal and Jelly will love this rhyming early graphic novel series with loads of laughs and silly gaffs, from a Theodor Seuss Geisel Honoree.
Zooni the dog has lost a shoe. Come on and help with the rescue! It might be here, or over there. Why don’t we go and ask the bear? Join the fun with Zooni and the zoo crew–you’ll love them, too!
Dog Man meets Dr. Seuss in this fabulously furry young graphic novel that pairs rollicking rhyme with an irresistible pooch. Kid-friendly wordplay makes phonics fun, while charming illustrations follow Zooni through colorful mishaps and dog naps. Never fear! Zooni’s pals are always near. Whether they’re lost at sea or climbing a tree, these loyal friends stick together through every adventure.
Told in three full-length stories and two mini-comics, tails will be wagging for this fuzzy, four-legged star. A perfect fit for read-alouds and newly independent readers.
A Year of Black Joy: 52 Black Voices Share Their Life Passions
Writer: Jamia Wilson
Artist: Jade Orlando
Publisher: Magic Cat
Release Date: Oct. 10
List Price: $22.99 Hardcover
An uplifting and empowering illustrated anthology of joyful contributions from 52 contemporary Black voices, including chess grandmaster Maurice Ashley, scientist Dr. Raven the Science Maven, and award-winning author Patrice Lawrence.
Curated by award-winning author Jamia Wilson, A Year of Black Joy celebrates the joy, talent, and contributions of 52 Black people from around the world. By sharing the many layers and dimensions of Black life and contributions that exist outside of trauma, readers of all backgrounds will be empowered to share their joy too. Each contributor is an expert in their own field, and the book covers a multitude of topics, from astrology and astronomy to beekeeping and baking.
The collection includes an entry for every week of the year, and each contribution is tied to a particular season, event, or celebration. An illustrated, nonfiction component to each entry–such as a guide to healing plants or a tour of the night sky–lets readers dive further into the activity. Presented in a beautiful hardcover format and featuring stunning full-color illustrations from Jade Orlando, AYear of Black Joy is a book to be treasured for years to come.
I Did It!
Author: Michael Emberley
Publisher: Holiday House
Release Date: Oct. 11
List Price: $14.99 Hardcover
Learning to ride a bike is hard. Can I do it? Yes, I can! A fun comic that kindergarteners and first graders can read on their own.
Can I do it?
I can’t do it.
I want to do it.
I did it!
Simple text that new readers can read by themselves, along with delightful pictures in a comic format, show a little creature trying and trying again as they learn to ride a bicycle. All their friends help with supportive words of encouragement. “You did it!” their friends exclaim.
Comics-lovers can now share the fun with their kids, students, siblings, and younger friends who are learning to read!
I Like to Read(R) Comics are perfect for kids who are challenged by or unengaged in reading, kids who love art, and the growing number of young comics fans. Filled with eye-catching art, humor, and terrific stories these comics provide unique reading experiences for growing minds. We hope that all new readers will say, “I like to read comics!”
Mabuhay!
Author: Zachary Sterling
Publisher: Graphix
Release Date: Oct. 18 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 17 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $12.99 Paperback
From rising star Zachary Sterling comes a humorous and heartwarming middle-grade graphic novel that celebrates food, family, and folklore.
Can two kids save the world and work their family food truck?
First-generation Filipino siblings JJ and Althea struggle to belong at school. JJ wants to fit in with the crowd, while Althea wants to be accepted as she is. But that hope seems like a long shot, for both of them. To make matters worse, they have to help their parents run the family food truck by dressing up as a dancing pig and passing out samples. Ugh! And their mom is always pointing out lessons from Filipino folklore — annoying tales they’ve heard again and again. But when witches, ogres, and other creatures from those same stories threaten their family, JJ and Althea realize that the folklore may be more real that they’d suspected. Can they embrace who they really are and save their family?
No Brainer (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 18)
Author: Jeff Kinney
Publisher: Amulet Books
Release Date: Oct. 25 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 24 (Bookstores)
List Price: $14.99 Hardcover
In No Brainer, book 18 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney, it’s up to Greg to save his crumbling school before it’s shuttered for good.
Up until now, middle school hasn’t exactly been a joyride for Greg Heffley. So when the town threatens to close the crumbling building, he’s not too broken up about it.
But when Greg realizes this means he’s going to be sent to a different school than his best friend, Rowley Jefferson, he changes his tune. Can Greg and his classmates save their school before it’s shuttered for good? Or is this the start of a whole new chapter for Greg?
Super Boba Café
Author: Nidhi Chanani
Publisher: Amulet Books
Release Date: Oct. 25 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 24 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $16.99 Paperback
A sweet and magical new middle-grade graphic novel about a boba café, an earthquake-causing monster, and an unforgettable summer
In the fog-laden hills of San Francisco sits a sleepy independent boba café. Run by Jing Li and guarded by her kitty Bao, it comfortably fades into the background. But inside the boba café, there’s a secret. Jing is the keeper of the monster of San Francisco. Each day she prepares one giant boba for nine hours to feed it.
When Jing’s granddaughter, Aria, comes to stay with her for the summer she makes it her mission to turn the café around. Aria is quickly aided by Bao, who gives birth to eight perfect kittens. Aria spreads the news of the boba cat café on social media and overnight it is overrun with excited customers. Each day Nainai Li (Grandma Li) finds reasons to close the café but the demand only increases.
When she opens, the hill monster is left hungry and small earthquakes begin to plague the city. When Aria secretly follows her Nainai to the hill monster cave she isn’t sure what awaits. Will Aria be able to reason with the monster or become its new favorite meal? Or will she disturb its underground existence and cause the Big One?
Jawbreaker
Author: Christina Wyman
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Release Date: Oct. 24
List Price: $17.99 Hardcover / $9.99 Paperback
Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier’s Smile, a refreshingly honest middle-grade debut novel about toxic sibling rivalry, socioeconomic disparity, and dental drama.
Max Plink’s life is complicated. Her parents aren’t getting along. The school bullies are relentless–and her own sister is the cruelest of them. Worst of all, her mouth is a mess. With a mismatched puzzle of a jaw, Max has a Class II malocclusion, otherwise known as a severe overbite. She already has braces, which means she lives on Advil and soft foods after each orthodontist appointment. But now Max has to wear painful (and totally awkward) orthodontic headgear nicknamed “the jawbreaker.” Could things get any worse?
Yes. The journalism competition Max wants to enter has a video component. But being on camera means showing her face not just to her junior high classmates, but possibly the whole city. Going viral is the last thing Max needs, but winning this competition is what she wants most. Turns out, following her dreams is complicated, too.
Inspired by Christina Wyman’s own experience with a Class II malocclusion, Jawbreaker is a humorous, heartfelt, and refreshingly relatable story.
Science Comics: Frogs: Awesome Amphibians
Author: Liz Prince
Publisher: First Second
Release Date: Oct. 25 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 24 (Bookstores)
List Price: $21.99 Hardcover / $12.99 Paperback
Hop to it with Science Comics: Frogs, a new volume of First Second’s fan-favorite nonfiction graphic novel series!
With their signature sounds, athletic tongues, and bulging eyes, there’s a lot to love about frogs! But did you know that they soak up air and even liquid through their skin? Or that they use their eyes to swallow food? From tiny tadpoles in water to boisterous bullfrogs on land, the life cycle of these amphibious acrobats is one of the coolest examples of metamorphosis around. So pull up a lily pad and dive in, because the frog facts in this book will truly give you something to croak about!
Avatar: The Last Airbender–Azula in the Spirit Temple
Writer: Faith Erin Hicks
Artists: Peter Wartman, Adele Matera
Publisher: Dark Horse Books
Release Date: Nov. 1 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 31 (Bookstores)
List Price: $12.99 Hardcover
A brand new stand-alone comics story from the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender!
Azula continues her destabilizing campaign against the Fire Nation and her brother, Fire Lord Zuko.
But after a failed attack on her latest target, Azula finds herself in a mysterious forest temple inhabited by a solitary monk…or is it something more mysterious? Azula must confront her past, and finally face her chance at redemption.
Written in consultation with Avatar Studios, the veteran team of Faith Erin Hicks, Peter Wartman and Adele Matera is back with a new story in the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Stories of the Islands
Author: Clar Angkasa
Publisher: Holiday House
Release Date: Oct. 31
List Price: $22.99 Hardcover / $14.99 Paperback
Journey into a land of magic and powerful girls in this feminist retelling of Indonesian folktales, lushly reimagined by a debut graphic novelist.
Once upon a time. . .
A princess was cursed to live as a snail,
Two sisters were trapped by their father’s wrath,
And a mother and daughter faced a hungry giant.
No one is coming to save them.
Will they get their happily ever after?
In this collection of reimagined Indonesian fairy tales, the girls are the ones with power. The power to fight evil, to protect others, and to grow as people. Because why should girls in folktales always need saving? What if they save themselves instead?
Based on graphic novelist Clar Angkasa’s favorite childhood stories and gorgeously illustrated with a dedicated color palette for each tale, this retelling of “Keong Mas,” “Bawang Merah Bawang Putih,” and “Timun Mas” is filled with spectacular landscapes, deep emotions, and a firm belief in the power of girls’ stories
History Comics: World War II: Fight on the Home Front
Writer: Kate Hannigan
Artist: Josh Rosen
Publisher: First Second
Release Date: Nov. 1 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 31 (Bookstores)
List Price: $21.99 Hardcover / $12.99 Paperback
Turn back the clock with History Comics! In this volume, learn how millions of Americans joined the fight by working assembly lines, growing vegetables, and collecting scrap metal during World War II!
When we think of war, we often focus on the battlefields. But during the war years of 1941 to 1945, Americans at home did whatever they could to support the troops and defeat the Nazis. While millions of soldiers ship out to fight on battlefronts in Europe and the Pacific, millions of men, women, and children step into new and exciting roles in cities and towns all across the United States. Four curious kids take us into factories, farms, and even kitchens to show what the fight on the home front looks like up close!
The Unlikely Story of Felix and Macabber
Authors: Juni Ba, Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
Publisher: Dark Horse Books
Release Date: Nov. 1 (Comics Shops) / Oct. 31 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Paperback
An all new original graphic novel packed with as much heart as epic combat from rising comic stars Juni Ba (Djeliya, Monkey Meat) and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (PanelxPanel)!
Join a brave young monster and their grouchy mentor on a heartfelt quest for redemption and growth in a world run by fear.
Felix is a shy little beast growing up in a world where monster wrestling is the biggest spectacle there is. Lonely, and constantly bullied by the bigger monsters his age, Felix struggles to prove themselves and find their place in the world. Their fate is changed forever when a dare lands them on the doorstep of one of the scariest monsters in the whole world– Macabber Tails, one of the most famous monstering champions in history.
Felix wants to be big and brave and strong and tough, just like Macabber, and so they decide to do whatever it takes to not be a fraidy little monster anymore. Their unlikely journey together sends them to Macabber’s hometown, to the mountains of the colossal flame-wielding Kilnver–a monster able to make an army of knights out of just its own saliva–and to the lair of the dastardly Amaret, the monster that made Macabber the champion they are today.
Together they face some battles for their life, but not always in ways that are physical and by the end, Felix and Macabber may learn a thing or two about being tough.
Pizza, Pickles, and Apple Pie: The Stories Behind the Foods We Love
Author: David Rickert
Publisher: Kane Press
Release Date: Oct. 31
List Price: $19.99 Hardcover
How did a pizza become a pizza? Is a pickle really a cucumber in disguise? Explore fascinating food history, nutrition, and American culture through this middle-grade graphic-format nonfiction book for kids that answers oft-asked questions about the foods we love, explaining how they came to be.
Whether it’s pizza and pickles or sushi and salad, there’s a story behind all of our favorite foods. From breakfast to dinner, this book explores popular foods from our history, and explains their origins. Young readers will travel back in time–sometimes thousands of years–to cultures all over the globe to learn how and why foods were discovered. They’ll also meet key people from food history along the way, including the inventor of breakfast cereal and the creator of salad dressing. The science behind unhealthy foods is also explored in this fascinating book, which includes projects and activities for both the classroom and home.
Kids and Middle Grade Graphic Novels for Fall 2023 – November
The Last Kids on Earth and the Monster Dimension
Writer: Max Brallier
Artist: Douglas Holgate
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $14.99 Hardcover
The highly-anticipated ninth book in the #1 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling series, with over ten million copies in print!
The last kids may have escaped the forbidden fortress by the skin of their teeth, but there isn’t much to celebrate. Thrull has what he needs to complete the Tower, Rezzoch will most certainly come to Earth, and the world as they know it will cease to exist. Except Jack’s Cosmic Hand is now even more powerful than he realized, and it might just be able to stop the inevitable from happening. To get the answers he seeks, he’ll need to travel farther than he’s ever been. He must go . . . to the monster dimension!
Atana and the Firebird
Author: Vivian Zhou
Publisher: HarperAlly
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $15.99 Paperback
A mermaid, a firebird, and a witch become entangled with the mysterious and powerful Witch Queen, who may hold the key to each of their past in this epic middle grade fantasy by debut author Vivian Zhou.
Atana’s island may be quiet and peaceful, but mostly, it’s lonely. With the outside world full of magic hunters who would stop at nothing to capture a mermaid like her, Atana has never been brave enough to swim far from her island’s shores and seek the answers to her mysterious past–until a firebird named Ren unexpectedly crashes into her life.
Ren’s arrival does not go unnoticed, as it has been hundreds of years since a firebird last landed on Earth. Determined to both protect Ren and finally chase the answers she’s longed for, Atana embarks on an adventure that takes her and the firebird to strange new islands and entangles them with the powerful yet secretive Witch Queen.
Generous though the Witch Queen’s offer of protection may be, an invitation to the Blue Palace can’t come without a price. And while the Palace’s splendid halls and library might hold the key to Atana’s past, will she be willing to pay the cost when it risks her chance of a bright new future?
The Secret of the Ravens
Author: Joanna Cacao
Publisher: Clarion Books
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $15.99 Paperback
In this charming middle grade graphic novel, orphan twins Elliot and Liza find themselves taking on a series of mysterious raven quests in order to make money and survive–only for Liza to be mortally injured during one of their adventures. Now, Elliot must team up with a mysterious dark mage in order to save her.
Twin siblings Elliot and Liza only have each other. Their parents are gone. Their home was taken, and to survive on their own, they’re forced to scrounge up plastic and metal to trade for coin within an abandoned garbage heap. Desperate to escape the vagabond cycle that they’re trapped in, the answer to their plight seemingly appears when they stumble upon a Raven Quest–magical tasks offered by mysterious message-carrying ravens that when successfully completed, promise the victors coin and untold riches.
In a gamble to change their fates, Elliot and Liza follow the trail of Raven Quests to the kingdom’s capital, where the greedy rulers of the Kawumiti Kingdom reign and young people are enlisted to train as royal mages for the kingdom’s army. But the Ravens Quests aren’t as they seem, and the King is on a mission to hunt down vagrant participants like the twins.
When a quest goes terribly wrong, Liza is poisoned, and Elliot finds himself racing against the clock to find the cure. Now the only way to save his sister is to join forces with a royal apprentice and a dark mage with mysterious motives of her own–even if it means sacrificing everything.
Wings of Fire: The Official How to Draw
Writer: Tui T. Sutherland
Artist: Brianna C. Walsh
Publisher: Scholastic
Release Date: Nov. 7
List Price: $12.99 Paperback
Learn how to draw all your favorite dragons in this official book based on the hit Wings of Fire series by Tui T. Sutherland!
Want to become a Wings of Fire drawing expert? You’ve come to the right place! This official How to Draw book includes simple, step-by-step instructions on how to sketch and color the simplest dragonets all the way to the most powerful, full-grown dragons. All your favorite characters from Sunny, Qibli, and Blue to Tsunami, Glory, and Peril and Kinkajou, Clay, and Darkstalker are here. Over 40 dragons are inside and ready for you to make them soar to life!
Juniper
Writers: Nathan Tomsic, Georgiana Brown
Artist: Lorenzo Colangeli
Publisher: Scout Comics
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $14.99 Paperback
JUNIPER is a witty, sci-fi adventure comic book series aimed at children 8-14 years of age, but can be enjoyed by all. Set on the faraway and fantastical planet, Nerth. The story is written by Nathan Tomsic and Georgiana Brown, with illustrations by Lorenzo Colangeli, and published by Scout.
Join 15-year-old Juniper, along with her best friend, Toby the robot, as their carefree lives will soon be changed forever. In search of a new home the due find themselves entangled in a quest that leads them to the desert, fighting off a prickly ancient tribe, befriending a colourful cowboy lizard, and breaking into a booby-trapped tower.
This is a humorous and at times, touching, coming-of-age tale about self-discovery, friendship, and kicking behinds.
Duel
Writer: Jessixa Bagley
Artist: Aaron Bagley
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $14.99 Paperback
A rivalry between sisters culminates in a fencing duel in this funny and emotional debut graphic novel sure to appeal to readers of Raina Telgemeier and Shannon Hale.
Sixth grader Lucy loves fantasy novels and is brand-new to middle school. GiGi is the undisputed queen bee of eighth grade (as well as everything else she does). They’ve only got one thing in common: fencing. Oh, and they’re sisters. They never got along super well, but ever since their dad died, it seems like they’re always at each other’s throats.
When GiGi humiliates Lucy in the cafeteria on the first day of school, Lucy snaps and challenges GiGi to a duel with high sisterly stakes. If GiGi wins, Lucy promises to stay out of GiGi’s way; if Lucy wins, GiGi will stop teasing Lucy for good. But after their scene in the cafeteria, both girls are on thin ice with the principal and their mom. Lucy stopped practicing fencing after their fencer dad died and will have to get back to fighting form in secret or she’ll be in big trouble. And GiGi must behave perfectly or risk getting kicked off the fencing team.
As the clock ticks down to the girls’ fencing bout, the anticipation grows. Their school is divided into GiGi and Lucy factions, complete with t-shirts declaring kids’ allegiances. Both sisters are determined to triumph. But will winning the duel mean fracturing their family even further?
Skip! A Graphic Novel
Author: Sarah Burgess
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $22.99 Hardcover / $14.99 Paperback
Jay often feels that like they are a nobody. Beah, on the other hand, is fierce, charming, athletic–and OBSESSED with the street skipping art, Double Dutch. When the two meet, sparks fly, in this colorful slice-of-life graphic novel about the wonder of platonic friendship and finding your identity.
Jay is always scribbling poetry in their notebook. When they come across Skip, a Double Dutch team, they befriend the members–and decide to join, too. For the first time ever, Jay has a place to belong–and friends to confide in.
But Jay’s friendship with their new bestie Beah is intense, both in and out of Double Dutch. As Beah and Jay help each other grow into the people they will become, it challenges their friendship and their own identities.
This charming “slice of life” graphic novel is about accepting yourself, navigating “first love” friendship, and finding your own voice. It’s rendered in debut author-illustrator Sarah Burgess’s gorgeous art style ribboned with playful humor and sports drama.
The Magicians
Author: Blexbolex
Translator: Karen Snelson
Publisher: Enchanted Lion
Release Date: Nov. 7
List Price: $34.95 Paperback
It’s a graphic novel! It’s an art book! It’s an action-packed fantasy adventure from French visionary Blexbolex, for readers young and old.
In the corner of a quiet, long-abandoned house, something is bubbling up and protesting. Suddenly, out from their hiding spots burst three young shapeshifting magicians–an elephant, a blackbird, and a human girl–each of whom embarks on their own journey. But a fierce young Huntress and a mechanical lion-dragon named Clinker are hot on their trails… and won’t rest until every last magician is vanquished.
Fans of Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki’s work or The Wizard of Oz will feel right at home in the pages of The Magicians, with its fabulously eclectic characters and entertaining, suspenseful, dreamlike story inspired by video games, science fiction, fantasy, and fairy tales. Magic is the beating heart of this multi-world universe–the magic of nature, the magic of childhood, the magic of creativity and imagination. Here, Blexbolex celebrates the mysterious, beautiful mess of life.
Every gorgeous page features a silkscreen-style illustration that brilliantly layers three Pantone spot colors, in a festive palette that suggests “vintage circus.” From the heavy cardstock binding with French flaps, to the bronze metallic endpapers, to the book’s paper evoking that of classic comic books, Blexbolex carefully selected the materials that would best realize his vision. The result? A visually stunning work of art.
The First Invasion (Power Button #1)
Author: Zack Soto
Publisher: Graphic Universe
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $17.99 Paperback
A powerful sci-fi adventure with humor and heart
Truly’s parents are arguing all the time, so they’ve dropped her off with her aunt and uncle. Her cousin Kaz has a big imagination but he’s not the best at making friends. Maximo Skulldigg gets bullied by his older brother–and now he has to conquer Kaz and Truly’s home planet.
It’s a good thing Kaz and Truly just uncovered a family secret. After the cousins find a hideout full of strange treasures near Kaz’s house, they slip on wristbands that summon a space knight named Trinn Cyclo. Soon, he may be Earth’s only hope!
Power Button: The First Invasion is the first book in a new middle grade graphic novel series by author/illustrator Zack Soto.
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library: The Graphic Novel
Author: Chris Grabenstein
Artist: Douglas Holgate
Publisher: Random House Graphic
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $21.99 Hardcover / $13.99 Paperback
When Kyle learns that the world’s most famous game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the town’s new library and is having an invitation-only lock-in on opening night, he’s determined to be there! But the tricky part isn’t getting into the library–it’s getting out. Because when morning comes, the doors stay locked. Kyle and the other kids must solve every clue and figure out every secret puzzle to find the hidden escape route!
Now a full color graphic novel!
Lila Greer, Teacher of the Year
Writer: Andrea Beaty
Artist: David Roberts
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers
Release Date: Nov. 7
List Price: $19.99 Hardcover
Lila Greer, Teacher of the Year is a moving story starring the Questioneers’ teacher that’s all about kindness, learning to face your fears, and the profound difference that one brilliant educator can make in a child’s life, from author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts, the #1 New York Times bestselling creators of Aaron Slater, Illustrator and Ada Twist, Scientist!
Lila Greer is full of worries. Even the smallest things–from cabbages to cardboard–fill her with dread and what-ifs. So when her family makes a big change–moving to a new town–the worry and what-ifs only grow. What if things go wrong? What if no one likes her?
At first, Lila feels right to be worried. In her new home, everything is strange. The new kids, the new smells. Lila feels alone and invisible. But there’s one person who sees her: Lila’s teacher, Ms. Kern. Through some creativity, blackboard erasers, and–most of all–kindness, Ms. Kern finds a way to make Lila feel welcome and open to new experiences. A lesson that will resonate with Lila long after second grade.
The Lost Mitten
Author: Jannie Ho
Publisher: Holiday House
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $14.99 Hardcover
Rabbit and Mouse find a mitten! But who could it belong to? Join the two friends as they journey through the forest in this graphic novel for emerging readers.
Oh no! A lost red mitten. Rabbit and Mouse want to return the mitten, but first they’ll have to figure out who it belongs to. Squirrel? No. Badger? Nope. As they continue through the forest and meet new creatures, Rabbit and Mouse are excited to find the real owner. They’re doing a good deed!
But when the time comes, can Rabbit give up the mitten? Red is his favorite color, after all! With a knowing ear and eye for the moods of young children, Jannie Ho has crafted a tale about doing the right thing (even if it’s hard) for young readers with bright colors and cute woodland figures. Simple panels and targeted vocabulary will aid beginning readers as they enjoy the gentle banter between true friends.
Keeper of the Lost Cities the Graphic Novel Part 1: Volume 1
Created By: Shannon Messenger
Writer: Celina Frenn
Artist: Gabriella Chianello
Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks
Release Date: Nov. 8 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 7 (Bookstores)
List Price: $27.99 Hardcover / $17.99 Paperback
The first book in the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling Keeper of the Lost Cities series is being reimagined as a graphic novel with the first half of the epic novel adapted to this new format with beautiful artwork!
Twelve-year-old Sophie Foster has never quite fit into her life. She’s skipped multiple grades and doesn’t really connect with the older kids at school, but she’s not comfortable with her family, either. The reason? Sophie’s a Telepath, someone who can read minds. No one knows her secret–at least, that’s what she thinks…
But the day Sophie meets Fitz, a mysterious (and adorable) boy, she learns she’s not alone. He’s a Telepath too, and it turns out the reason she has never felt at home is that, well…she isn’t. Fitz opens Sophie’s eyes to a shocking truth, and she is forced to leave behind her family for a new life in a place that is vastly different from what she has ever known.
This stunning graphic novel retelling of the first half of the thrilling first novel comes to life with all the adventure and epic worldbuilding the Keeper of the Lost Cities series is known for.
The Greatest in the World!
Author: Ben Clanton
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Release Date: Nov. 23 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 8 (Bookstores)
List Price: $7.99 Paperback
Two spud siblings face off in a series of epic challenges in this first “delightful laugh-on-every-page” (Booklist) installment of a hilariously silly graphic novel chapter book series from the bestselling creator of the Narwhal and Jelly books.
Rot is a mutant potato who wakes up feeling great, maybe even…the greatest in the world! But that only makes Rot’s brother Snot the grumpiest in the world. The only solution? An epic contest to prove who is the greatest once and for all, judged by the only impartial party they can find–their small fry little sister, Tot.
But as the stakes get higher through the muddy potato sack race, sacred hot potato roll, and a hilarious laughing contest, their rivalry spirals out of control. Suddenly Rot’s not feeling so spudtacular anymore. Will this tater trio ever be able to determine who the greatest in the world really is?
Punycorn
Author: Andi Watson
Publisher: Clarion Books
Release Date: Nov. 15 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 14 (Bookstores)
List Price: $15.99 Hardcover
Praised as “hilarious, whimsical epic adventure” by the creator of Hilo, a big-hearted diminutive unicorn and his friends battle to save their kingdom from a powerful (if bratty) ogre in this fast-paced and funny fantasy graphic novel.
Carbuncle is a land of endless rainbows and sugar-sprinkled doughnuts—until the vile Sir Ogre unleashes his evil army on the happy kingdom. Who can stop his outsized appetite for destruction? Punycorn! Who? Punycorn. The smallest, clumsiest, and, yes, puniest of all the unicorns. Punycorn may not look like a hero, but aided by a fireless dragon, a feisty dung beetle, and a magic sword with a hidden secret, he might just be Carbuncle’s only hope!
Readers will root for a motley group of misfits with hearts of gold in this fast-paced, hilarious graphic novel by multi-Eisner-nominated author and artist Andi Watson.
Above the Trenches (Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales #12)
Author: Nathan Hale
Publisher: Amulet Books
Release Date: Nov. 15 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 14 (Bookstores)
List Price: $14.99 Hardcover
In Above the Trenches, author-illustrator Nathan Hale takes to the skies with the flying aces of World War I to reveal another Hazardous Tale in American history in the #1 New York Times bestselling graphic novel series.
“Yippee! We’re going back to World War One!” said nobody ever–except maybe the Hangman.
When the Great War began in 1914, America had plans to stay out of it. But some young men were so eager to fight, they joined the French Foreign Legion. From deep in the mud and blood of the Western Front, these young volunteers looked to the sky and saw the future–the airplane.
The first American pilots to fight in World War One flew for the French military. France created a squadron of volunteer Americans called the Lafayette Escadrille (named after the great Marquis de Lafayette).
This book is about that volunteer squadron: How they got into the French military. How they learned to fly. How they fought–and died. And how these American pilots would go down in history with other legendary flying aces like the Red Baron and his Flying Circus.
Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales are graphic novels that tell the thrilling, shocking, gruesome, and TRUE stories of American history. Read them all–if you dare!
Hex Americana
Author: Bree D. Wolf
Publisher: Iron Circus
Release Date: Aug. 30 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 14 (Bookstores)
List Price: $15.00 Paperback
A boy-meets-ghoul story at 100 miles-per-hour!
Ken Takamoto is a wannabe racer stuck at home for the summer, with only his mother for company. Dante Willow is a ghost stuck in the car he crashed while racing his rival twenty years ago.
When they meet by chance, Ken has the answer to both their problems: enter the local racing league Hex Americana and win the annual Grand Prix. If they win, Dante can pass on to the afterlife and Ken can keep Dante’s fixed-up car to go anywhere he wants. What starts as a simple plan becomes a wild summer full of witches, gnomes, feelings, magical chickens, and more as they prepare for the big race.
Will Ken and Dante finish first? Can they even make it to the finish line? And more importantly, what happens when this racing duo blooms into something more?
Bursting to the brim with crazy monsters, blazing automotive action, deep-rooted mysteries, and small-town secrets, HEX AMERICANA is the race everyone’s dying to win!
Niitu and Chips: Childhood Moments
Created By: Babah Kalluk
Publisher: Inhabit Media
Release Date: Nov. 14
List Price: $17.95 Hardcover
Niitu and Chips are two best friends, one of whom just happens to be a seal. In this collection of comic strips, Niitu and Chips tackle everything from building the perfect fort to video games to how to eat only the marshmallows out of the breakfast cereal without Mom noticing.
Witty and heartwarming, these strips illustrate the ups and downs of childhood as seen through the eyes of a creative kid and his seal best buddy. Written in the sweet and silly tradition of Calvin and Hobbs, this collection is sure to cheer kids and adults alike.
Daddy and the Beanstalk
Writer: Andrew Weiner
Artist: Bethany Crandall
Publisher: Little, Brown Ink
Release Date: Nov. 15 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 14 (Bookstores)
List Price: $12.99 Hardcover
Perfect for fans of Narwhal and Jelly, this charming and hilarious take on classic fairy tales tackles the family chaos of bedtime.
Did you know that Jack was looking for hot dogs when he climbed up the beanstalk? Or that he was led there by a talking fox named Wendy?
Ok, maybe that’s not how the real story goes, but when Estella’s dad, Andrew, tells her bedtime stories, she’s always in for a bit of twist!
A hilarious modern retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, Daddy and the Beanstalk is a recipe for fun and adventure–with a hint of magic.
Ink Girls
Writer: Marieke Nijkamp
Artist: Sylvia Bi
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Release Date: Nov. 22 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 21 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $15.99 Paperback
From New York Times-bestselling author Marieke Nijkamp and illustrator Sylvia Bi, this debut middle grade graphic novel celebrates the power that everyone–even those often overlooked–has to create change. In a vibrant city, two girls from very different walks of life join forces to fight censorship and protect the people they love.
Eleven-year-old Cinzia is a printer’s apprentice. She adores Mestra Aronne for taking her in–most guilds don’t have room for apprentices with a crippled leg–and she loves life in the raggedy workshop that smells of paper and printing, where secrets and stories are always circulating. So when Mestra Aronne is imprisoned for publishing accusations against the ruling family, Cinzia will do anything to prove that Mestra Aronne only told the truth.
Elena is the exact same age as Cinzia, but she’s forced to keep to her rooms and garden. To protect her, according to her mother. To protect the city, according to her uncle. Because Elena is not the charming, powerful noble her family wants her to be. According to them, she doesn’t communicate well. She’s too gullible and literal, and struggles to understand other people.
After unexpectedly meeting face-to-face, the girls follow a trail of clues through their golden city, drawing supporters and learning more about their home and each other than they ever could have imagined. If one person–no matter how young–can change the course of history, just imagine what a whole flock of them could do.
Bestselling author Marieke Nijkamp and debut illustrator Sylvia Bi have crafted an indelible, vibrant story about finding and using your voice, perfect for fans of Lightfall, Tidesong, and The Prince and the Dressmaker.
My Annoying, Irritating, Always-in-the-Way Shadow
Author: Ryan Russell
Publisher: Harriman House
Release Date: Nov. 14
List Price: $20.00 Hardcover
This topsy-turvy turn around book lets you read one story and then turn the book around to read another. The father of three young children, Ryan was inspired to write this book while undergoing treatments for Brain Cancer, because he thought it was important for his children to always know the power of perspective. It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it.
Born Driven
Writer: Saxton Moore Jr.
Artist: Nolwe Azul Tamis
Publisher: Oni Press
Release Date: Nov. 29 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 28 (Bookstores)
List Price: $15.99 Hardcover
Based on the true story of the first African American NASCAR champion Wendell Scott, Born Driven is an uplifting tale celebrating the power of persistence and big dreams.
Like many other boys, Wendell Scott had a big dream: to become a race car driver. He loved to race anything and everything! Although he faced many difficulties as an African American boy in the South, Wendell had the willpower to overcome these obstacles. Join Wendell Scott for the time he challenged himself to compete in his town’s soapbox derby.
Cat Kid Comic Club: Influencers
Author: Dav Pilkey
Publisher: Graphix
Release Date: Nov. 29 (Comics Shops) / Nov. 28 (Bookstores)
List Price: $12.99 Hardcover
The newest graphic novel in the #1 bestselling series by Dav Pilkey, the author and illustrator of Dog Man!
The Cat Kid Comic Club is in crisis! After learning that one of their comics will be published, the baby frogs are filled with anxiety and doubt. How will they get their creative groove back? Will Naomi or Melvin emerge as a leader? Will Flippy convince them to finally straighten up and fly right?
The story is hysterical, thought-provoking, and full of action-packed mini-comics: “Frogzilla vs. Mechafrogzilla,” “I Am Dr. Fredric Wertham,” “Two Birds,” and “RoboChubbs.” Bestselling author-illustrator Dav Pilkey shows the reader that the best way to influence people is to be open, gentle, and kind. The variety of art styles, paired with Pilkey’s trademark storytelling and humor, inspires imagination and innovation for readers of all ages.
Kids and Middle Grade Graphic Novels for Fall 2023 – December
Tasty: A History of Yummy Experiments
Author: Victoria Grace Elliott
Publisher: Random House Graphic
Release Date: Dec. 6 (Comics Shops) / Dec. 5 (Bookstores)
List Price: $21.99 Hardcover / $13.99 Paperback
How did cheese happen? Who pickled the first pickle? Explore the history of innovative food in this non-fiction graphic novel filled with facts, legends, and recipes.
Have you ever wondered how some of our favorite foods came to be? How was cheese created and who realized it belonged on everything? Was soda always meant to be a drink? A team of whimsical food sprites are excited to show you the yummy history of food expirements from all over the world!
Learn about the true stories behind pickles! Get a recipe for how to make your favorite pizza! With a story and recipe for every chapter, this graphic novel will give you something to read and taste.
Hunt for Star-Lord: A Graphix Book (Marvel’s Rocket and Groot)
Writer: Amanda Deibert
Artist: Cam Kendell
Publisher: Graphix
Release Date: Dec. 6 (Comics Shops) / Dec. 5 (Bookstores)
List Price: $8.99 Paperback
Join Marvel’s fan-favorites Rocket and Groot in this hilarious, high-octane original graphic novel!
Rocket and Groot are living their best lives touring the galaxy for the very best deep-dish pizza in the universe. Just as Rocket is about to bite down on a gooey slice of pizza with extra trash, an alert pops up on his bounty tracker: Star-Lord has been kidnapped and is being held for ransom!
Rocket and Groot immediately drop their ‘za and jump into action. Who would want to capture Peter Quill anyway? Okay… maybe a lot of people. It’s probably best to start with someone who actually likes Peter. Gamora! But when Rocket and Groot locate Gamora, she is in the middle of a battle with Thanos. Great! One more enemy to deal with…
Join the Guardians of the Galaxy in this hilarious Graphix adventure!
Digital Lizards of Doom Vol. 1: Dizzy Doom
Writer: Gabriel Valentin
Artist: Ernie Najera
Publisher: Papercutz
Release Date: Dec. 6 (Comics Shops) / Dec. 5 (Bookstores)
List Price: $12.99 Paperback
Join the Digital Lizards of Doom on an unforgettable action adventure through the cosmos!
When a magical trickster secretly traps an entire universe inside a video game world, a young warrior named Dizzy Doom must search for answers to unravel the mystery. But as villains from another galaxy come to attack his kingdom, Dizzy is forced to make an unlikely alliance with a mysterious ninja and cyborg cat pirate. Dizzy’s ideology will be tested as he comes to realize everything is not always as it seems.
Winter Turning: A Graphic Novel (Wings of Fire Graphic Novel #7)
Writer: Tui T. Sutherland
Artist: Mike Holmes
Publisher: Graphix
Release Date: Dec. 27 (Comics Shops) / Dec. 26 (Bookstores)
List Price: $24.99 Hardcover / $12.99 Paperback
The graphic novel adaptations of the #1 New York Times bestselling Wings of Fire series continue to set the world on fire!
Daring mission… or deadly mistake?
Winter has been a disappointment to his royal IceWing family his whole life. When his sister, Icicle, runs away from Jade Mountain Academy, fleeing terrible crimes and possibly planning to commit more, Winter knows that they both need a second chance to make things right — if only he can find her.
Winter’s new clawmates, Moon, Qibli, and Kinkajou, won’t let him make this dangerous journey alone. They don’t seem to understand that IceWings, the most superior of all dragon tribes, can fix their own problems. When their search leads the dragonets straight into Queen Scarlet’s vicious talons, Winter is grateful to have some help. But even the bravest dragons can’t follow him to the Ice Kingdom, where he’ll have to face the greatest threat of all: his own family.
The #1 New York Times bestselling Wings of Fire series soars to new heights in the seventh graphic novel adaptation, with art by Mike Holmes.
Looking for more great reads? Check out The Beat’s list of anticipated YA and adult graphic novels and anticipated manga for Fall 2023!
