20 Best Graphic Novels for Teens | Best YA Graphic Novels – Reader’s Digest
Why teens love graphic novels
Graphic novels are catching up with the young adult publishing trend, so a list of the best graphic novels for teens is overdue. Teen books have always been diverse in genre. Whether feel-good books, romance books, horror or fantasy, graphic novels span the range. There are also plenty of graphic novels for kids and graphic novels for adults, but this list focuses on a diverse selection of books to mirror the diversity of teens reading them. Any teenager can find a graphic novel they’ll love here, and YA graphic novels are an excellent way to get them reading.
Older students often spend all day looking at blocks of text in textbooks and on whiteboards at school, which can make traditional novels more intimidating and less appealing. Graphic novels for teens solve this problem, while also being a faster read, and one that’s easier for between classes or during breaks from homework. And it is still reading, simply made more accessible (especially for teenagers struggling with dysgraphia and/or other neurodivergence).
According to a report by Jim Milliot in Publisher’s Weekly, graphic novel sales (including manga and comics) rose 61% in 2021. Despite the pandemic, this storytelling format is rising to new heights, and what better way to celebrate that than with a list of graphic novels specifically for teens? These selections are based on popularity and sales, and they include some classics. Most important, like all the best books, these graphic novels showcase a wide range of diverse stories, characters and perspectives for teenagers to explore.
Heartstopper by Alice Oseman
Heartstopper is a fantastic place to start for any teenager looking for joyful depictions of queer romance. Things aren’t always easy for Nick (a cheerful rugby player) and Charlie (a gay and bullied teen), but their friendship is beautiful to see, especially as it grows into something deeper. This story will fill your heart more than stop it as Nick, Charlie and their group of friends navigate queer teenhood. They often struggle with very relatable and common teen issues, but some themes could be considered too mature for those under 14. Self-published in 2018, Heartstopper now has an immensely popular Netflix adaptation that explores this graphic novel for teens.