18 Super Fun Graphic Novels for Kids That’ll Make Reading Feel Like Playtime

I think I’ve mentioned this in another post, but honestly, I grew up reading either the stories in my English textbooks or Dork Diaries. 

I managed to snag a few other graphic novels from friends here and there, but Dork Diaries was definitely a childhood staple for me and I loved it.

Looking back, I feel like I actually learned a lot from those books about friendship, getting in trouble, lying (and why that never ends well), and just managing growing up.

That’s why I always recommend that parents who want to get their kids into reading should absolutely start with graphic novels. 

They’re such a fun, easy way to hook young readers before slowly easing them into longer, more mature books as time goes by.

In this post, I’ve listed some really amazing graphic novels that are perfect for children. 

I’ve read all of them myself and can confidently say that both the stories and illustrations are completely age-appropriate, wholesome, and just downright fun. 

So if you’re looking to get your young reader started, you might want to grab a copy – or maybe all – of these recommendations to kickstart their reading journey.

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

If your child is shy or struggling in middle school, Awkward is the perfect graphic novel for them.

I really loved how this book gently shows that it’s okay to make mistakes when making new friends. 

Peppi is trying her best to fit in at her new school, but things get very awkward fast.

I remember thinking Peppi felt so real – her worries about school reminded me of being that age. 

This sweet story mixes friendship, art club fun, and school drama in a way that kids will love. 

For parents searching for the best graphic novels for middle school kids, this book is definitely one I’d recommend. 

Your little reader will learn about friendship, kindness, and how to be brave when things feel uncomfortable.

I’m planning to share this book with my younger cousin very soon. 

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

Ghosts is one of the best graphic novels for children who enjoy heartfelt stories. I remember feeling so touched by the sister bond in this book. 

Cat and her little sister Maya move to a coastal town because Maya is sick, and soon they discover something spooky – real ghosts.

But don’t worry, it’s more sweet than scary. This book shows how special family is and how bravery isn’t always about fighting monsters. 

It’s about facing your fears, even for someone you love. If your child enjoys touching stories with a little adventure, this might become their favorite. 

I think Ghosts would also be a great pick for kids learning about the Day of the Dead. 

I loved how gentle and caring this story felt, and this makes it one of the best spooky graphic novels for young readers.

The Secret of the Unicorn by Hergé

I absolutely think The Secret of the Unicorn is perfect for young adventure lovers.

This classic Tintin story is one of the best graphic novels for children who love mysteries and pirate treasures. 

Tintin finds a simple model ship at the market, but it leads to a wild treasure hunt. I found this story exciting when I read it – every page felt like I was part of Tintin’s adventure. 

I especially enjoyed how it’s great for readers who enjoy solving puzzles and following clues. I think kids who dream of pirate adventures will especially love this one. 

If you’re searching for classic graphic novels for children that spark curiosity, this is a lovely choice. 

I can’t wait to reread it someday with my niece and introduce her to Tintin’s world. 

Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

If your child enjoys stories about growing up and making new friends, Roller Girl is a great pick.

I felt so inspired by Astrid’s journey. She joins roller derby camp without her best friend, and it’s tough learning who she is without that friendship. 

I remember thinking how real her feelings felt. It’s one of the best graphic novels for kids who are managing changes and challenges, just like Astrid. 

The story is fun, heartwarming, and perfect for showing kids how strong and brave they can be.

If your young reader likes Smile by Raina Telgemeier, they’ll love this book too. Personally, I loved seeing Astrid discover her passion – it made me want to try roller skating myself.

This sweet, sporty adventure is a must-read for children who enjoy funny graphic novels about friendship.

Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke

Zita the Spacegirl is one of my personal favorites.

This fun and fast-paced story is perfect for adventurous kids who love space stories. I adored Zita’s bravery – when her friend gets kidnapped by aliens, she jumps into action without thinking twice.

The characters are so quirky, from robots to giant chickens, and the illustrations are colorful and exciting. Honestly, I was smiling the whole time reading this book. 

It’s one of the best science fiction graphic novels for children, and I think it’s perfect for beginners too. 

Zita shows kids that heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and that even if you’re scared, you can still be brave. 

I can’t wait to share this book with my little cousin, who loves space adventures. This one is a great choice for kids who love action-packed stories.

Robot Dreams by Sara Varon

I think Robot Dreams is such a beautiful and quiet story – it really surprised me with how emotional it was.

This wordless graphic novel tells the story of a dog and his robot friend who sadly get separated after a trip to the beach. I loved how simple yet powerful the pictures were. 

Honestly, I felt a little sad while reading, but in a good way. It’s one of the best graphic novels for children about friendship and loss, perfect for thoughtful readers. 

I’d recommend it for kids who enjoy stories that make them think about feelings and relationships. I still think about the ending sometimes.

If your child loves gentle, sweet graphic novels without too many words, this is a lovely choice. Personally, I think every child should read this unforgettable story at least once.

How Mirka Got Her Sword by Barry Deutsch

Mirka might be one of my favorite heroines. I loved how determined and spunky she was – all she wanted was to fight dragons (who wouldn’t, right?). 

Even though there aren’t any dragons in her quiet town, she still goes on an exciting adventure to win her sword. 

This story combines fantasy, humor, and cultural traditions beautifully, so it is one of the best fantasy graphic novels for children. 

I loved learning about Mirka’s Orthodox Jewish community. It was so interesting and added a special touch to the story. 

Kids who like magic, witches, and trolls will enjoy every page of this one.

If your child enjoys bold characters and fun adventures, How Mirka Got Her Sword is a perfect pick. Personally, I love how the story encourages being yourself, even if you’re a little different from everyone else.

Beach Babe by Jennifer L. Holm

Babymouse is such a fun character. I really think Beach Babe is one of the best funny graphic novels for children. 

In this book, Babymouse is off to the beach for a relaxing summer, but things don’t exactly go as planned.

I loved how silly and adventurous Babymouse is – I was laughing at her wild dreams of being a surfing star. 

Kids will love the simple drawings and hilarious storyline, especially if they enjoy summer beach stories. 

Personally, I think Babymouse books are great for early readers starting graphic novels, because the words and pictures are easy to follow. 

If your child loves humor and a little chaos, Beach Babe is the perfect pick. I wish I had Babymouse books when I was younger – they’re so much fun to read and feel like a sunny beach day!

The Stonekeeper by Kazu Kibuishi

If your child loves action and adventure, The Stonekeeper is one of the best fantasy graphic novels for kids.

I really loved the magical world and all the cool creatures Emily and Navin meet. 

After their mother is taken, these two siblings bravely explore a mysterious underground land. I thought Emily’s bravery was so inspiring.

This story is exciting but not too scary, which makes it great for middle-grade readers. I especially loved the little robot rabbit – so cute.

If your child enjoys books with talking animals and fantasy worlds, this graphic novel will keep them hooked. Personally, I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. 

It’s a perfect adventure book for kids who love mysterious places and magical battles with giant robots.

Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol

If your child likes a slightly spooky story, Anya’s Ghost might be their new favorite graphic novel.

I loved how this book balanced ghostly fun with real-life problems like feeling left out at school. 

Anya feels lonely and unsure about herself until she meets a ghost in the most surprising place – the bottom of a well.

At first, I thought the ghost was a sweet friend, but I won’t spoil anything. It’s spooky without being too scary, which makes it one of the best graphic novels for older kids or tweens who enjoy mysterious stories. 

I really liked how this book showed that not all friendships are what they seem. 

Personally, I think Anya’s Ghost would be perfect for kids who enjoy slightly darker stories that still have heart and warmth underneath all the spooky fun.

Do you think you’ll be giving any of these books to your young readers? Let me know in the comment section below.

And just a little reminder: always check content warnings and read reviews online before getting a book for your child. 

You definitely don’t want to accidentally give them something that isn’t age-appropriate.

If you have any other graphic novel recommendations that you’ve tried and loved, please drop them in the comments too – I’d love to hear what’s worked for you.