Stack Overflow: Nidhi Chanani Picks 6 Great Graphic Novels

Today’s Stack Overflow is curated by Nidhi Chanani. Chanani is a freelance illustrator and artist, and the owner of Everyday Love Art. She was born in Calcutta and raised in suburban Southern California. In April of 2012, she was honored at the White House as a Champion of Change. Chanani dreams and draws every day with her husband, daughter, and their two cats in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her first graphic novel, Pashmina, is due out in October. Find out more at everydayloveart.com.

Chanani recommended these six great graphic novels for kids and young adults—a couple of them are available now, and the rest are coming this fall!

Nightlights by Lorena Alvarez

I’ve been in love with Lorena’s artwork for many years. When I saw she had a graphic novel coming out, I thought I’d pass out from sheer excitement. Nightlights did not disappoint! Each brushed line is a visual treat and the colors are stunning. The story of a girl, Sandy who meets Morfie, who makes Sandy deal with her insecurities, ego and fear. I wish I could step into the world that Lorena builds – except there is a dark side!

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

A completely relatable new-girl-at-school story. Peppi, the main character is a flawed main character who when attempting to fit in, shoves the awkward lonely boy. Her guilt follows her and while she makes friends, she must fix her mistake and survive middle school. The art is subtle and sweet. I also really appreciate the diversity of the characters that doesn’t deviate from the central story, but is a part of the world. As it should be!

M.F.K. by Nilah Magruder

Nilah seems to build a new world with ease. Although Abbie finds herself in a struggling nowhere town, as a reader I want to know more about the town, the landscape beyond and the characters. The intrigue is enticing! The art is lovely, which is true of all Nilah’s work. I read this without knowing it was a series and I’m excited to see more of Abbie’s journey.

Space Battle Lunchtime by Natalie Riess

Cooking! Space! Aliens! What’s not to love about this book? Peony is an earth contestant on an intergalactic cooking show. This is visually fun and the story and pacing leaves me wanting more every time. I’d say it’s as addictive as any good cooking show – or any good dessert!

Lighter Than My Shadow by Katie Green

The subject and the book are heavy. Hundreds pages of honest comics about coping with an eating disorder. I truly appreciate when mental health issues are openly discussed in comics. Memoirs like Katie’s are powerful and not to be missed.

Taproot by Keezy Young

A queer ghost love story. Yes, you read that sentence correctly! Necromancy romance. It’s adorable and swoon worthy. Beautiful art and a deep and well written characters. You will fall in love with Hamal and Blue – you can’t help it.

Want a few more suggestions? Check out last week’s list, curated by Tillie Walden.