What is a Graphic Novel?
In August 2025, the display shelves at the Bellingham Central Library will feature graphic novels. Graphic novels are similar to comic books in that they both use artwork and language to tell a story, but graphic novels tend to be longer and go into more detail than a standard issue comic book, and sometimes feature true stories about history, biography, science, and current events, as well as fictional ones. The library has fiction and nonfiction graphic novels for all ages.
Read on for graphic novel lists created by our librarians, as well as individual staff recommendations. And don’t forget to visit us at the Bellingham Central Library downtown in August to browse our display shelves and graphic novel collections.
Graphic Novels for Adults
Library Staff Recommend:
The Sacrificers by Rick Remender
“A utopia is maintained by the gods for a world, for the low price of one child per home. But this system is questioned and upheaval comes at the hands of the least likely. This series is beautiful high fantasy. If you’re looking for a wonderful graphic novel series published recently, give The Sacrificers a try!”
– James, Public Service Clerk
Kill 6 Billion Demons by Tom Parkinson-Morgan
“With the power of a god quite literally shoved into her head, sorority girl Allison starts an epic quest to rescue her kidnapped boyfriend from the all-powerful tyrant-kings of the multiverse.
A wild ride from the very start, with great art and super cool worldbuilding; think Mad Max meets Dante’s Inferno. I highly recommend it!”
– Rosalie, Public Services Clerk
“Darrin Bell’s memoir begins with his childhood fears, and his white mother’s attempt to teach her black sons that the world will view them differently from white boys. Bell interlaces black history with personal stories about navigating an increasingly complicated world. His storytelling is generous, wary, and honest, and he’s a magnificent artist. The Talk is as absorbing as any traditional memoir, and well worth your time. It’s written for adults.”
– Karen, Public Services Clerk
Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons
“Honored on Time Magazine’s 2005 list of the 100 greatest novels, Watchmen is one of the original ‘dark superhero’ stories and is still regarded as an iconic text in the graphic novel genre.”
– Miles, Public Services Clerk
Venus in the Blind Spot by Junji Ito
“A collection of 10 notable short works from iconic horror mangaka Junji Ito, including adaptations of other works like Human Chair, as well as ever-classic originals such as The Enigma of Amigara Fault. A must-read for anyone exploring the medium.”
– Rosalie, Public Services Clerk
Adult Graphic Novel Lists:
Want to start reading graphic novels, but don’t know where to start? Check out this list of essential reads from the best writers and artists in the industry.
Graphic Novels for Teens
Library Staff Recommend:
The Baker and the Bard by Fern Haught
“Cozy fantasy about the everyday magic of adventure and connecting with people.” Recommended for ages 12 and up
– Arbor Hoff, Public Services Clerk
Teen Graphic Novel Lists:
Graphic Novels for Kids
Library Staff Recommend:
Housecat Trouble by Mason Dickerson
“A tiny cat named Buster, abandoned overnight with only a few snacks and toys, is terrified by a half-blind old creature who appears on his doorstop and warns of danger. The artwork is adorable, and the story is extremely funny. Recommended for readers of any age who are not afraid of little monsters, although kids 5 and under will probably need it read to them.”
– Karen, Public Services Clerk
My Aunt is a Monster by Reimena Lee
“A heartfelt story about family that happens to include globe-trotting adventures, evil organizations, old rivalries, and real, actual magical items that will curse you forever.”
– Lorena, Public Services Clerk
Children’s Graphic Novel Lists:
Looking for graphic novels for your child? Here are some titles for early elementary readers.
Links for More About Graphic Novels and Comics
BCALA and ALA Black Lives Matter Comics Reading Lists
The Center for Cartoon Studies
Launching Success Toys and Games
Social Justice Books Graphic Novels List
