Graphic Novels for Early Readers

Early readers are on the cusp of discovering the joy of reading. Graphic novels offer a fun break from books filled with dense text. These books harken back to classic comics, using colorful panels to move the story along. They can help motivate early readers to pick up books instead of electronic devices. A word of caution: these types of books should not be overused. Children can begin to rely too heavily on pictures for every action and event, which may limit their imagination. The first four books are best suited for new readers ages five through seven, while the remaining titles are geared toward ages six through nine.

Wiggler’s Big Joke, by Kati Vandorn, is filled with a soft pastel palette. The illustrations were hand drawn digitally. Worm learns that friendship means more than playing jokes on others. This charming book is the first in a planned series and is perfect for beginning readers.

Worm and Butterfly Are Friends Always, by Kaz Windness, is a delightful story with brightly colored illustrations, easy-to-follow panels, and simple text geared toward new readers. When Butterfly must migrate to warmer weather, Worm worries their friendship may not last. This is an accessible and engaging early reader.

Wild About Capybaras!, by Kevin McCloskey, is an easy-to-understand nonfiction title about these unique animals. Readers will learn interesting facts, including that capybaras are the largest rodents and excellent swimmers. The artwork is lively and complements the text well.

Little Mouse Saves the Day!, by Jeff Smith, is an endearing story about overcoming fears. Little Mouse is afraid to go to bed and worries about what might be behind the closet door. The expressive illustrations bring this adorable character to life and help drive the story. This is the second book in a planned series.

The Terrible Trio: The Day the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Ran Out, by Swapna Haddow and illustrated by Minky Stapleton, is the second book in this popular series. It highlights the importance of kindness and positivity while following the trio through silly antics that are sure to make young readers laugh. Readers may also enjoy the first book in the series.

Class Pet Ghost Detective: Milkshake the Disappearing Milk Snake, by Akeem S. Roberts, is the second book in this lively, illustrated series. It follows Carter and his former class pet, now a ghost, as they work together to solve the mystery of a missing class pet. The story is humorous and engaging.

Pencil & Eraser: New Friends Rule!, by Jenny Alvarado, is the third installment in this entertaining series. Pencil and Eraser complement each other well, with Eraser helping fix Pencil’s mistakes. When Ruler joins in to help draw straight lines, unexpected trouble follows, leading to plenty of laughs.

The Sneakiest in the World, by Ben Clanton, is a fun and funny third entry in the series. Rot, a mutant potato, attempts to scare his older brother, leading to amusing results. The bright and creative illustrations will keep young readers engaged until the end.

Cloud Puppy: The Pup Days of Summer, by Kelly Leigh Miller, continues this charming series. Cloud Puppy, who is part cloud and part puppy, helps a friend overcome a fear of roller coasters during a visit to an amusement park. The colorful panels are vibrant and inviting.

The Great Puptective: The Big Mousetake, by Alina Tysoe, is a humorous adventure featuring Poppy, a determined detective on the case of a missing cheesecake. The illustrations are bright, expressive, and filled with entertaining characters, making this the third engaging book in the series.