This Just In: Kids Love Graphic Novels

As I took a look around my school library this afternoon, I spotted no less than five different graphic novels being read by one class of students. Having added all the titles in the past year and a half, I couldn’t help but be happy with what I saw:

A boy reading X-Men Power Pack.

I reviewed this series back in March of ’08. They’re basically the X-Men comic for a younger audience that features kids as the main characters. They put them in a nice library binding so they’ve held up well to the abuse.

One girl reading Magic Trixie by Jill Thompson.

You may have seen this graphic novel for youngsters reviewed by children’s lit blogs A Fuse #8 Production and Pink Me. I read it shortly thereafter and really enjoyed it. The artwork is amazing, and the story about show-and-tell will resonate with young readers.

Two boys reading Bone by Jeff Smith.

This series needs no introduction. Kinda like how “H to the Izzo” was the rap song even your mom liked, Bone is the graphic novel that even G.N.-phobic collections will stock. This series should come in the school library starter pack.

A boy reading Stone Rabbit: Pirate Palooza by Erik Craddock.

This is a new graphic novel series that will work for about 3-6th grade. I reviewed this one for School Library Journal and I quite like it. It has a crazy plot, frenetic pace, slightly smart-alec humor throughout (see: reluctant reader gold). To give you an idea of the tone, the main character’s favorite expression is “crud monkeys”. I saw the student holding this one laugh and repeat this to himself while reading -always a good sign.

One boy reading Knights of the Lunch Table: The Dodgeball Chronicles by Frank Cammuso.

I recently reviewed this on a tip from the wonderful Bookends blog. It’s great all around – well written with nice illustrations. If you haven’t yet, be sure to pick this one up for your upper elementary crowd.

When it was time for this group to leave, two students had their noses buried in their books as they went out the door. They were absolutely focused on what they were reading. There is no better sight for a children’s librarian.

(Top Image: ‘Maus‘
www.flickr.com/photos/51035747113@N01/10920512)

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