2023 Great Graphic Novels for Teens

YALSA'S list of 2023 Great Graphic Novels.

Members of the 2023 Great Graphic Novels for Teens Blogging Team are:

Kelley Blue, (Coordinator) Director of Youth Services, Portland Public Library; Catherine Outten, California State University; Dakota Hall; Denise Farley; Jacqueline Bush, Stratford Library Association; Jayna Ramsey, Belmar Library; Jean Boughton, Vancouver Public Library; Kaileigh Oldham, Danville Public Library; Mariela Siegert, Downers Grove North High School Library; Ness Shortley; Rachel Johannigmeier; Shaira Rock; Kim Keown Farnsworth (Administrative Assistant) ; Ninah Moore, Program Officer – Continuing Education, RUSA, American Library Association.


Nonfiction

*Denotes a Top Ten Title

*Free Speech Handbook: A Practical Framework for Understanding Our Free Speech Protections. By Ian Rosenberg. Art by Mike Cavallaro. 2021. 266p. First Second, hardcover, $28.99 (9781250619754). General Adult. 323.4430853.

A nonfiction graphic covering 10 historical cases and their impact on modern-day questions about free speech in the United States.

The High Desert. Black. Punk. Nowhere. By James Spooner. Art by the author. 2022. 384p. HarperCollins, hardcover, $26.99 (9780358659112). General Adult. B.

Activist, artist, and punk enthusiast James Spooner recounts his teens years growing up biracial in the Mojave Desert.

Messy Roots: A Graphic Memoir of a Wuhanese American. By Laura Gao. Art by the author. 2022. 269p. Balzer & Bray, paper, $14.99 (9780063067769). Gr. 10-12. B/973.

Laura Gao's memoir starts with her immigration from Wuhan at age 3 and follows her up to the current rise of anti-Asian sentiment in the United States.

My Mom Had an Abortion: A Shout Your Abortion Project. By Beezus B. Murphy. Art by Tatiana Gill. 2021. 64p. PM Press, paper, $13.95 (9781629639130). Gr. 7-9. 362.19888.

Teen author Beezus B. Murphy chronicles her evolving understanding of menstruation, reproduction, and abortion with heart and humor.

Other Boys. By Damien Alexander. Art by the author. 2021. 201p. First Second, paper, $14.99 (9781250222817). Gr. 4-6. B/373.1826.

Damien Alexander's moving graphic memoir covers PTSD, loss of a parent, gender expectations, and bullying from elementary to middle school.

A Quick & Easy Guide to Asexuality. By Molly Muldoon. Art by Will Hernandez. 2022. 71p. Limerence Press, paper, $7.99 (9781620108598). General Adult. 306.76.

Addresses myths, misconceptions and tropes about asexuality while reminding readers that they aren't broken if they don't experience sexual attraction.

Radium Girls. By Cy. Art by the author. 2022. 134p. Iron Circus Comics, paper, $15.00 (9781945820991). General Adult. 363.1799.

In the Roaring Twenties, “ghost girls” working in a watch factory are unknowingly exposed to radium-infused paint.

So Much for Love: How I Survived a Toxic Relationship. By Sophie Lambda. Art by the author. 2022. 297p. First Second, hardcover, $24.99 (9781250785992). General Adult. B/741.5944.

The artist's memoir of a relationship that started as loving and supportive but turned to violence, anger, and gaslighting.

*Welcome to St. Hell: My Trans Teen Misadventure. By Lewis Hancox. Art by the author. 2022. 304p. Graphix, paper, $14.99 (9781338824438). Gr.7-9. B/306.76.

A biographical walk through a trans teen's high school years at the aptly named St. Hell.

When I Grow Up: The Lost Autobiographies of Six Yiddish Teenagers. By Ken Krimstein. Art by the author. 2021. 232p. Bloomsbury Publishing, hardcover, $28.00 (9781635573701). General Adult. 920.0092.

This nonfiction collection illustrates the anonymous memoirs of six Jewish teens living in Lithuania on the eve of World War II.

You Know, Sex: Bodies, Gender, Puberty, and Other Things. By Cory Silverberg. Art by Fiona Smyth. 2022. 432p. Triangle Square, paper, $29.95 (9781644210802). Gr. 4-6. 372.372044.

This frank, honest and gentle sex education book is narrated by four middle school students and addresses a wide spectrum of relevant topics with an open heart and mind.

Fiction

*Denotes a Top Ten Title

Across a Field of Starlight. By Blue Delliquanti. Art by the author. 2022. 245p. Random House Graphics, paper, $16.99 (9780593124130). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Two non-binary teens meet and remain friends across time and space, despite being on opposing sides of an interstellar conflict.

Adventure Game Comics 1: Leviathan. By Jason Shiga. Art by the author. 2022. 144p. Amulet Books, hardcover, $14.99 (9781419757792). Gr.4-6. 741.5973.

An interactive comic where the reader chooses their own path through the book, navigating decisions to reach different endings.

The All-Nighter. By Chip Zdarsky. Art by Jason Loo. 2022. 136p. Dark Horse Books, paper, $19.99 (9781506728049). General Adult. 741.5973.

Working at an all-night diner can be boring, especially when you're a vampire with cool powers and heroic ambitions.

A-Okay. By Jarad Greene. Art by the author. 2021. 232p. Harper Alley, paper, $12.99 (9780063032842). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

Eighth-grader Jay Violet's new schedule and new acne might just ruin what would have been a perfect school year.

Blue Lock, vol. 1. By Muneyuki Kaneshiro. Art by Yusuke Nomura. 2022. 213p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $12.99 (9781646516544). General Adult. 741.5952.

300 boys compete at Blue Lock, an intensive camp for future World Cup stars, but only one of them can win.

Blue Period. By Tsubasa Yamaguchi. Art by the author.

  • vol. 5. 2021. 208p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $9.99 (9781646511273). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 6. 2022. 208p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $12.99 (9781646511280). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 7. 2022. 208p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $9.99 (9781646512911). General Adult. 741.5952.

The continuing journey of aspiring painter Yatora, who is working towards a coveted spot at Tokyo University of Art.

Booked. By Kwame Alexander. Art by Dawud Anyabwile. 2022. 320p. Clarion Books, paper, $12.99 (9780358161820). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

The graphic novel adaptation of the bestselling verse novel about eighth-grade soccer player Nick Hall.

Borders. By Thomas King. Art by Natasha Donovan. 2022. 170p. Little Brown & Co, paper, $12.99 (9780316593052). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

An Indigenous boy and his mother are detained at the Canada/U.S. border for claiming Blackfoot as their sole citizenship.

Boys Run the Riot, vol. 4. By Keito Gaku. Art by the author. 2022. 256p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $12.99 (9781646511211). General Adult. 741.5952.

In this final volume, transgender teen Ryo and cisgender teen Jin face the realities of making a successful fashion brand.

Came the Mirror and Other Tales. By Rumiko Takahasi. Art by the author. 2022. 208p. VIZ Media, paper, $17.99 (9781974725847). General Adult. 741.5973.

Five surreal and supernatural stories from the celebrated creator of Ranma 1/2 and Inu Yasha.

Can't Stop Cursing You. By Kensuke Koba. Art by Natsuko Uruma.

  • vol. 2. 2021. 224p. Yen Press, paper, $13.00 (9781975321680). General Adult. 741.5925.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 210p. Yen Press, paper, $13.00 (9781975338602). General Adult. 741.5952.

Aloof curse-breaker Saeyama is sent to Japan to stop curse contractors from killing people in this horror-mystery manga series.

Cat + Gamer. By Wataru Nadatani. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2022. 198p. Dark Horse Manga, paper, $11.99 (9781506727417). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 176p. Dark Horse Manga, paper, $11.99 (9781506727424). General Adult. 741.5952.

Daytime office worker and nighttime gamer Riko adopts a stray cat and takes an unconventional approach to pet ownership. It's time to level up this cat!

Chef's Kiss. By Jarrett Melendez. Art by Danica Brine. 2022. 160p. Oni Press, paper, $14.99 (9781620109045). General Adult. 741.5973.

Ben faces both culinary and personal challenges when he starts a restaurant job with a cute pig and even cuter sous-chef.

City of Dragons, vol. 1: The Awakening Storm. By Jaimal Yogis. Art by Vivian Truong. 2021. 232p. Graphix, paper, $12.99 (9781338660425). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

Grace's life changes forever when she moves to Hong Kong and receives a mysterious egg that hatches into a dragon.

Clementine, bk. 1. By Tillie Walden. Art by the author. 2022. 248p. Image Comics, paper, $14.99 (9781534321281). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

In this horror-survival tale set in The Walking Dead universe, teenager Clementine finds herself among new companions who may or may not be trustworthy.

Coven. By Jennifer Dugan. Art by Kit Seaton. 2022. 288 p. G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers, paper, $17.99 (9780593112182). Gr. 8-12. 741.5973.

Emsy, an untrained witch, is living the life of a typical California teen when her parents are suddenly called back to their coven on the other side of the country.

The Croaking, vol. 1. By Megan Grey. Art by the author. 2022. 280p. Rocketship Entertainment, paper, $19.99 (9781952126321). General Adult. 741.5973.

In a world of winged humanoids, prestigious military academy The Roost accepts its first ever Crow student under mysterious circumstances.

Crumbs. By Danie Stirling. Art by the author. 2022. 384p. Clarion Books, paper, $17.99 (9780358467816). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Precognitive witch Ray thinks she has her future all figured out, until she falls in love at a magical bakery.

Crush & Lobo. By Mariko Tamaki. Art by Amancay Nahuelpan. 2022. 208p. DC Comics, paper, $19.99 (9781779514400). General Adult. 741.5973.

Former Teen Titan, Crush, has a chance to reconnect with her imprisoned father, Lobo, aka the worst person in the galaxy.

Deadpool: Samurai. By Sanshiro Kasama. Art by Hikaru Uesugi.

  • vol. 1. 2022. 214p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725311). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 222p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974732203). General Adult. 741.5952.

Deadpool moves to Tokyo and makes a mess of everything. Japan and manga will never be the same.

The Death of Doctor Strange. By Jed MacKay. Art by Lee Garbett. 2022. 144p. Marvel Comics, paper, $17.99 (9781302930226). General Adult. 741.5973.

Doctor Strange has been murdered, and the only one who can catch the culprit is... Doctor Strange?

Demon Days: Treasury Edition. By Peach Momoko. Art by the author. 2022. 208p. Marvel Comics, hardcover, $34.99 (9781302930110). General Adult. 741.5952.

Teenager Mariko learns that her life is not what she believed when strange, supernatural occurrences begin troubling her.

Note: The committee read and reviewed the Treasury Edition of this title. A standard print edition will be released in 2023.

Demon in the Wood: A Shadow and Bone Graphic Novel. By Leigh Bardugo. Art by Dani Pendergast. 2022. 208p. Roaring Brook Press, hardcover, $22.99 (9781250624642). Gr.10-12. 741.5973.

A glimpse into the life that gave rise to The Darkling, many years before the events of Shadow and Bone.

Eat the Rich. By Sarah Gailey. Art by Pius Bak. 2022. 128p. Boom! Studios, paper, $19.99 (9781684158324). General Adult. 741.5973.

Meet-the-parents anxiety turns to terror as Joey discovers deeply disturbing family traditions at her boyfriend's summer home.

Fangirl: The Manga, vol. 2. By Rainbow Rowell. Adapted by Sam Maggs. Art by Gabi Nam. 2022. 224p. VIZ Media, paper, $16.99 (9781974718092). General Adult. 741.5952.

This second volume in the manga adaptation of the bestselling YA novel continues the story of Cath, introverted college freshman and fanfiction phenom.

Far Sector. By N.K. Jemisin. Art by Jamal Campbell, Deron Bennet. 2021. 312p. DC Comics, paper, $29.99 (9781779512055). General Adult. 741.5973.

Green Lantern Jo Mullen lands in The City Enduring to investigate the first murder to take place there in 500 years.

Flung Out of Space: Inspired by the Indecent Adventures of Patricia Highsmith. By Grace Ellis. Art by Hannah Templer. 2022. 208p. Abrams Comic Art, hardcover, $24.99 (9781419744334). General Adult. 741.5973.

A fictionalized, multi-layered look at an author who was both unlikable and charismatic in a society unaccepting of her sexuality.

*Frieren: Beyond Journey's End By Kanehito Yamada. Art by Tsukasa Abe.

  • vol. 1. 2021. 177p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725762). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 188p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974727230). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 195p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974727247). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 187p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974727254). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 5. 2022. 192p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974730070). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 6. 2022. 192p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974734009). General Adult. 741.5952.

The adventures of elf mage Frieren, who must form a new party to fight the Demon King she vanquished with her former allies over half a century ago.

*Frizzy. By Claribel A. Ortega. Art by Rose Bousamra. 2022. 224p. First Second, paper, $12.99 (9781250259639). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

With a little help from her Tia Ruby and bestie Camila, Marlene learns to care for—and love—her naturally curly hair.

Galaxy: The Prettiest Star. By Jadzia Axelrod. Art by Jess Taylor. 2022. 188p. DC Comics, paper, $16.99 (9781401298531). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

High school basketball star Taylor seems to have it all, but her true self is from another planet—literally.

The Girl and the Glim. By India Swift. Art by the author and Michael Doig. 2022. 128p. IDW Publishing, paper, $12.99 (9781684057412). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

Bridgette has a hard time making friends at her new school and strange creatures are starting to take notice.

Girl on Fire. By Alicia Keys and Andrew Weiner. Art by Brittney Williams. 2022. 215p. Harper Alley, hardcover, $19.99 (9780063029569). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

Lolo grapples with her new powers, unleashed when a case of mistaken identity leads to police violence against her older brother.

Given, vol. 6. By Natsuki Kizu. Art by the author. 2021. 157p. Sublime, paper, $12.99 (9781974723676). General Adult. 741.5952.

The four members of the band Given decide how ready they are for commitments in both music and relationships.

Graceling: The Graphic Novel. By Kristin Cashore. Art by Gareth Hinds. 2021. 257p. Clarion Books, paper, $17.99 (9780358250470). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

Graced with lethal combat skills, Katsa has always been the greatest fighter in the Seven Kingdoms. Then she meets Po, and everything changes.

The Greatest Thing. By Sarah Winifred Searle. Art by the author. 2022. 342p. First Second, paper, $17.99 (9781250297235). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

High school sophomore Winifred's anxiety soars when she must choose between keeping her secrets or keeping her newfound friends.

Harley Quinn: The Animated Series, vol. 1: The Eat. Bang! Kill. Tour. By Tee Franklin. Art by Max Sarin. 2022. 144p. DC Comics, hardcover, $24.99 (9781779516640). General Adult. 741.5973.

When her fiancé leaves her at the altar, Poison Ivy runs away with Harley Quinn on a chaotic honeymoon road trip.

Hawkeye: Kate Bishop. By Marieke Nijkamp. Art by Enid Balam. 2022. 120p. Marvel Comics, paper, $15.99 (9781302932992). General Adult. 741.5973.

In this standalone volume, Kate Bishop's sister secretly invites her to a high-end resort to solve a strange mystery.

Heartstopper, vol. 4. By Alice Oseman. Art by the author. 2022. 350p. Graphix, paper, $14.99 (9781338617559). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

In this fourth volume of the popular series, Charlie wants to tell Nick he loves him, while Nick wants to help Charlie with his eating disorder.

Heaven's Design Team. By Hebi-zou and Tsuta Suzuki. Art by Tarako.

  • vol. 6. 2021. 144p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $12.99 (9781646512683). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 7. 2022. 144p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $12.99 (9781646513543). General Adult. 741.5952

The Design Team continues with new assignments, like partnering up with the flamboyant Plant Department, and designing a cow that won’t contribute to global warming.

Hell Phone, vol. 1. By Benji Nate. Art by the author. 2022. 160p. Silver Sprocket, paper, $14.99 (9781945509827). General Adult. 741.5973.

Friends Sissy and Lola find an ancient flip phone that lures them to ghosts who died mysteriously.

Home Sick Pilots. By Dan Watters. Art by Caspar Wijngaard.

  • vol 2: I Wanna Be a Walking Weapon. 2021. 120p. Image Comics, paper, $16.99 (9781534320529). General Adult. 741.5973.
  • vol. 3: Three Chords and the End of the World. 2022. 144p. Image Comics, paper, $16.99 (9781534323131). General Adult. 741.5973.

The Old James House may have sunk into the sea, but it hasn't forgotten the teens it once terrorized. Meanwhile, the Nuclear Bastard's atomic mech plots to take the house down once and for all.

House of Slaughter, vol. 1: The Butcher's Mark. By James Tynion IV and Tate Brombal. Art by Werther Dell'Edera and Chris Shehan. 2022. 144p. Boom! Studios, paper, $14.99 (9781684158164). General Adult. 741.5973.

The pivotal and painful teen years of Aaron Slaughter are revealed in flashback as he reluctantly hunts down an old friend.

*Huda F Are You? By Huda Fahmy. Art by the author. 2021. 184p. Dial Books for Young Readers, paper, $14.99 (9780593324318). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Huda's family moves to Dearborn, Michigan, where she grapples with finding her identity among family and peers as the “hijabi girl” becomes just one of many Muslim teens at school.

I Am a Cat Barista. By Hiro Maijima. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2021. 133p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $13.99 (9781648274244). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 128p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $13.99 (9781648274527). General Adult. 741.5952.

Meet a cat barista at a magical café who knows exactly what kind of drink you need to feel better!

I'm the Villainess, So I'm Taming the Final Boss. By Sarasa Nagase. Art by Anko Yuzu and Mai Murasaki.

  • vol. 1. 2021. 196p. Yen Press, paper, $13.00 (9781975321208). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2021. 152p. Yen Press, paper, $13.00 (9781975321215). General Adult. 741.5952.

Aileen has been reborn as the villainess of a dating sim and now needs to avoid a doomed ending by way of various schemes, including an attempt to woo the Demon King.

Ima Koi: Now I'm in Love with You, vol. 1. By Ayuko Hatta. Art by the author. 2022. 186p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974728954). General Adult. 741.5952.

Shy Satomi plans to confess her feelings to her hot but aloof classmate, Yagyu, after he protects her from a creeper on the subway to school.

Isla to Island. By Alexis Castellanos. Art by the author. 2022. 192p. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, paper, $12.99 (9781534469235). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

This historical and wordless graphic novel follows a young girl’s immigration from Cuba to the United States in the sixties under Operation Peter Pan.

Issunboshi: A Graphic Novel. By Ryan Lang. Art by the author. 2022. 200p. Oni Press, hardcover, $34.99 (9781637150818). General Adult. 741.5973.

In this graphic retelling of the Japanese folktale, the one-inch Samurai, a demon pieces together an ancient weapon, but the final element lies inside tiny Issunboshi, who now must save the world.

Junkwraith. By Ellinor Richey. Art by the author. 2022. 280p. Top Shelf Productions, paper, $24.99 (9781603095006). Gr. 8-12. 741.5973.

When figure skater Florence throws her ice skates in the trash, they become possessed by a Junkwraith, and so begins a strange journey.

Kageki Shojo!! By Kumiko Saiki. Art by the author.

  • vol. 2. 2021. 140p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $12.99 (9781648276163). Gr.7-9. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2021. 153p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $12.99 (9781648276347). Gr.7-9. 741.5952.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 160p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $12.99 (9781638581208). Gr.7-9. 741.5952.
  • vol. 5. 2022. 160p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $12.99 (9781638581888). Gr.7-9. 741.5952.

The first year students of Kouka School get ready for an alumni sports festival and the cultural festival production of Romeo & Juliet. Drama is literally part of the curriculum!

Kaiju No. 8. By Naoya Matsumoto. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2021. 204p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725984). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 212p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974727148). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 192p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974728992). General Adult. 741.5952.

Kafka cleans up kaiju guts for a living and dreams of a job at the Defense Force, but his life is totally upended when he suddenly transforms into a kaiju-human hybrid.

Kisses for Jet: A Coming-of-Gender Story. By Joris Bas Backer. Art by the author. 2022. 208p. Nobrow, paper, $19.99 (9781913123031). Gr.10-12. 741.59492.

Jet is sent to live in a boarding house where they navigate friendships and frenemies while discovering their true gender.

The Last Session, vol. 1: Roll for Initiative. By Jasmine Walls. Art by Dozerdraws. 2022. 128p. Mad Cave Studios, paper, $17.99 (9781952303197). General Adult. 741.5973.

A group of friends who met in their high school's GSA stay connected after graduation through role playing games.

Little Monarchs. By Jonathan Case. Art by the author. 2022. 256p. Margaret Ferguson Books, paper, $14.99 (9780823442607). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

In the year 2101, very few mammals remain on earth. Elvire and Flora are on a life-saving mission, following the migration of monarch butterflies.

Lore Olympus. By Rachel Smythe. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2021. 384p. Random House Worlds, paper, $19.99 (9780593356074). General Adult. 741.5973.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 368p. Random House Worlds, paper, $21.00 (9780593356081). General Adult. 741.5973.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 384p. Random House Worlds, paper, $21.00 (9780593356098). General Adult. 741.5973.

Persephone, goddess of Spring, moves from the mortal world to Olympus, where she is quickly swept up in the drama of the Pantheon.

Lumberjanes, vol. 20: End of Summer. By Shannon Watters and Kat Leyh. Art by Gus Allen. 2021. 144p. Boom! Studios, paper, $14.99 (9781684157433). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

The Lumberjanes make a final stand against the Gray, a mysterious and destructive force transforming the forest into something dark.

Magical Boy. By The Kao. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2022. 317p. Graphix, paper, $15.99 (9781338775525). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 336p. Graphix, paper, $15.99 (9781338815924). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Max, a trans boy, learns to his horror that he is descended from a long line of magical girls and that he’s next in line to take up the fight against evil.

*Mamo, vol. 1. By Sas Milledge. Art by the author. 2022. 224p. Boom! Studios, paper, $14.99 (9781684158171). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

Teenager Jo asks reluctant hedge witch Orla for help in the wake of strange supernatural occurrences happening in their sleepy hometown.

The Many Deaths of Laila Starr. By Ram V. Art by Andrade Filipe. 2022. 128p. Boom! Studios, paper, $14.99 (9781684158058). General Adult. 741.5973.

The God of Death gets a major downgrade when forced to live a mortal life on earth as twenty-something Laila Starr.

Mao. By Rumiko Takahashi. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2021. 187p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974720521). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2021. 187p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974720583). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 187p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974720828). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 188p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974723539). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 5. 2022. 183p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974724529). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 6. 2022. 187p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974724536). General Adult. 741.5952.

Middle school student Nanoka travels back and forth between the present day and Taishō era Japan, teaming up with an exorcist to fight demons on both sides of the portal.

Mashle: Magic and Muscles. By Hajime Komoto. Art by the author.

  • vol. 2. 2021. 195p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974723515). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2021. 190p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725113). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 187p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725373). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 5. 2022. 176p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974727131). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 6. 2022. 193p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974729029). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 7. 2022. 192p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974732050). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 8. 2022. 216p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974732357). General Adult. 741.5952.

Non-magical but majorly muscular teenager Mash begins his time at a magic academy, where he’s able to fool friends and foes by sheer force.

Miles Morales, Spider-Man. By Saladin Ahmed. Art by Carmen Carnero.

  • vol. 5: The Clone Saga. 2021. 168p. Marvel Comics, paper, $19.99 (9781302926014). General Adult. 741.5973.
  • vol. 6: All Eyes on Me. 2022. 112p. Marvel Comics, paper, $15.99 (9781302926021). General Adult. 741.5973.

Miles Morales encounters multiple clones of himself, then gets a new look and potential new romance… unless Taskmaster ruins his date!

M Is for Monster. By Talia Dutton. Art by the author. 2022. 211p. Abrams Comic Art, paper, $17.99 (9781419751974). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

Scientist Francis Ai miraculously brings her sister Maura back from death. But is it truly Maura she’s brought back?

Miss Quinces: A Graphic Novel. By Kat Fajardo. Art by the author. 2022. 256p. Graphix, paper, $12.99 (9781338535594). Gr.4-6. 741.5973.

Suyapa wants to spend summer with her friends at camp, not in Honduras with her family, and she especially doesn't want a quinceañera.

Mister Miracle: The Great Escape. By Varian Johnson. Art by Daniel Isles. 2022. 197p. DC Comics, paper, $16.99 (9781779501257). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Through his multiple escape attempts, space orphan Scott Free gets tangled up with Big Barda in more ways than one!

The Montague Twins, vol. 2: The Devil's Music. By Nathan Page. Art by Drew Shannon. 2022. 320p. Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers, paper, $17.99 (9780525646815). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

The Montague Twins are back for another mystery, this one involving a sinister song and a mysterious musician.

Ms. Marvel: Beyond the Limit. By Samira Ahmed. Art by Andres Genolet. 2022. 120p. Marvel Comics, paper, $15.99 (9781302931261). General Adult. 741.5973.

How is Ms. Marvel supposed to deal with her powers being on the fritz and an interdimensional doppelganger at the same time?

My Love Mix-Up! By Wataru Hinekure. Art by Aruko.

  • vol. 2. 2022. 149p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725281). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 171p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974725410). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 184p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974726585). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 5. 2022. 174p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974727216). General Adult. 741.5952.

Aoki and Hoshimoto continue to sort out their newfound and complicated romantic feelings for their classmates after a mix-up with a borrowed eraser uncovers unexpected attractions.

Nightwing, vol. 1: Leaping into the Light. By Tom Taylor. Art by Bruno Redondo. 2021. 160p. DC Comics, hardcover, $24.99 (9781779512789). General Adult. 741.5973.

With help from Batgirl and a new canine companion, Nightwing fights to keep the vulnerable of Blüdhaven safe from crime and corruption.

Olympians 12: Dionysos: The New God. By George O'Connor. Art by the author. 2022. 77p. First Second, paper, $12.99 (9781626725317). Gr. 4-6. 292.2113.

The first Olympian tells the tale of the last in this final volume of George O'Connor's beloved Olympians series.

*Other Ever Afters: New Queer Fairy Tales. By Melanie Gillman. Art by the author. 2022. 240p. Random House Graphic, paper, $17.99 (9780593303184). Gr.7-9. 741.5973.

This collection of new and familiar fairy tales features queer protagonists who challenge the traditional happy ending.

*Our Colors. By Gengoroh Tagame. Art by the author. 2022. 528p. Pantheon Books, hardcover, $32.50 (9781524748562). General Adult. 741.5952.

High school student Sora struggles with hiding his identity as a gay man until he meets a new and inspiring mentor.

Our Not-So-Lonely Planet Travel Guide, vol. 2. By Mone Sorai. Art by the author. 2022. 189p. Love X Love, paper, $12.99 (9781427868503). General Adult. 741.5952.

Asahi and Mitsuki continue their trip around the world, meeting new friends, discovering different cultures, and getting married!

Over My Dead Body. By Sweeney Boo. Art by the author. 2022. 240p. Harper Alley, hardcover, $24.99 (9780063056312). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

It's the season of Samhain at Younwitty Hidden Institute of Witchcraft. Another young witch has gone missing in the woods, but her classmates are forbidden from searching for her.

Pixels of You. By Ananth Hirsh, Yuko Ota. Art by J.R. Doyle. 2022. 127p. Amulet Books, paper, $16.99 (9781419749575). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

A teen photographer with a cybernetic eye becomes rivals with an AI at their shared gallery internship.

Robo Sapiens: Tales of Tomorrow Omnibus. By Toranosuke Shimada. Art by the author. 2021. 299p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $19.99 (9781648275982). General Adult. 741.5952.

A speculative collection of thirteen interwoven stories about humanity, AI, and mortality that takes place in the near future.

Run on Your New Legs. By Wataru Midori. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2022. 160p. Yen Press, paper, $15.00 (9781975339005). Gr. 7-9. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 160p. Yen Press, paper, $15.00 (9781975339012). Gr. 7-9. 741.5952.

Former rising soccer star Shouta Kikuzato is encouraged to try a special prosthetic leg in order to continue his athletic career on the track and field club.

Sakamoto Days. By Yuto Suzuki. Art by the author.

  • vol. 1. 2022. 189p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974728947). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 2. 2022. 192p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974732142). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 3. 2022. 192p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974732197). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 200p. VIZ Media, paper, $9.99 (9781974733965). General Adult. 741.5952.

Legendary ex-hitman Sakamoto wants to live a normal life with his family running a convenience store. Hijinks ensue.

Salt Magic. By Hope Larson. Art by Rebecca Mock. 2021. 238p. Margaret Ferguson Books, paper, $14.99 (9780823450503). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

In the wake of World War I, Vonceil sets out on a dangerous and magical adventure to find the witch who cursed the well on her family's farm.

*Scout Is Not a Band Kid. By Jade Armstrong. Art by the author. 2022. 272p. Random House Graphic, paper, $12.99 (9780593176221). Gr.4-6. 741.5973.

Joining the school band might be the only way Scout can meet her favorite author at the Almonte Festival. How long can she fake playing the trombone?

Secret Passages: 1985-1986. By Axelle Lenoire. Art by the author. 2022. 199p. Top Shelf Productions, paper, $19.99 (9781603094993). General Adult. 741.5971.

A humorous, fictionalized version of the author's childhood that focuses on her anxiety, first days of school, and her family dynamics.

Seven Secrets, vol. 2. By Tom Taylor. Art by Daniele Di Nicuolo. 2021. 160p. Boom! Studios, paper, $16.99 (9781684157396). General Adult. 741.5973.

The devastating First Secret has been unleashed, and The Order is on the run. But how long can they hide?

Shang-Chi, vol. 2: Shang-chi Vs. the Marvel Universe. By Gene Luen Yang. Art by Dike Ruen. 2022. 136p. Marvel Comics, paper, $17.99 (9781302930233). General Adult. 741.5973.

Shang-Chi is now the leader of the Five Weapons Society, and his fellow superheroes fear he has taken after his villainous father.

Silk. By Maureen Goo. Art by Takeshi Miyazawa.

  • vol. 1: Threats and Menaces. 2021. 112p. Marvel Comics, paper, $15.99 (9781302924393). General Adult. 741.5973.
  • vol. 2: Age of the Witch. 2022. 112p. Marvel Comics, paper, $15.99 (9781302932794). General Adult. 741.5973.

Reporter Cindy Moon, aka Silk, finds herself investigating witches, werecats, ancient curses, and… social media influencers?

Slip. By Marika McCoola. Art by Aatmaja Pandya. 2022. 208p. Algonquin Books, paper, $17.95 (9781616207892). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

Jade grapples with her friend's attempted suicide, a new crush, and her pottery at a summer arts collective.

Solo Leveling. By Chugong. Art by DUBU.

  • vol. 3. 2021. 306p. Yen Press, paper, $20.00 (9781975336516). General Adult. 741.59519.
  • vol. 4. 2022. 320p. Yen Press, paper, $20.00 (9781975337247). General Adult. 741.59519.

Jinwoo continues to level up, but things get complicated when he's summoned to a double dungeon under sketchy circumstances, and when he accidentally takes his friend’s sister through a deadly Red Gate.

Something is Killing the Children. By James Tynion IV. Art by Werther Dell’Edera.

  • vol. 4. 2022. 144p. Boom! Studios, paper, $14.99 (9781684158041). General Adult. 741.5973.
  • vol. 5. 2022. 144p. Boom! Studios, paper, $14.99 (9781684158539). General Adult. 741.5973.

Discover Erica Slaughter's origins and backstory, then follow her in the present as she hunts monsters on her own and runs from the Order of St. George.

Squire. By Nadia Shammas. Art by Sara Alfageeh. 2022. 302p. Quill Tree Books, paper, $14.99 (9780062945846). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

Aiza hides her heritage in order to pursue her dreams of becoming a knight. As she trains, she faces the dark aspects of the empire.

Star Wars: The High Republic: Edge of Balance, vol. 2. By Shima Shinya and Daniel Jose Older. Art by Mizuki Sakakibara. 2022. 144p. VIZ Media, paper, $14.99 (9781974728640). General Adult. 741.5952.

Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi and her Padawan redouble their efforts to protect the Jedi Temple on Banchii after the Drengir Attack.

Star Wars Rebels, vol. 2. By Mitsuru Aoki. Art by the author. 2021. 144p. Yen Press, paper, $13.00 (9781975336530). Gr. 7-9. 741.5952.

New member of the Rebellion Ezra Bridger works alongside the crew of the Ghost and begins Jedi training with Kanan Jarrus.

Static: Season One. by Vita Ayala. Art by Nikolas Draper-Ivey. 2022. 200p. DC Comics, hardcover, $29.99 (9781779514219). General Adult. 741.5973.

Virgil loves science, RPGs, and avoiding the school bully. When he's unwillingly exposed to an untested chemical, he develops powers over electricity.

Stray Dogs. By Tony Fleecs. Art by Trish Forstner. 2021. 144p. Image Comics, paper, $16.99 (9781534319837). General Adult. 741.5973.

Sophie is the new dog in the Master’s house full of dogs, but she quickly realizes that something is very, very wrong.

*Superman Son of Kal-El, vol. 1: The Truth. By Tom Taylor. Art by John Timms. 2022. 160p. DC Comics, hardcover, $24.99 (9781779515322). General Adult. 741.5973.

Jonathan Kent replaces his father Clark as Superman and must learn to balance fighting justice, being Superman, and being himself.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin. Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. Art by the authors. 2022. 224p. IDW Publishing, hardcover, $29.99 (9781684058419). General Adult. 741.5973.

In a dystopian NYC, one lone turtle seeks revenge for his family, making new enemies and allies along the way.

Thieves. By Lucie Bryon. Art by the author. 2022. 202p. Nobrow, paper, $20.99 (9781838741198). General Adult. 741.5973.

Ella and Madeline are both petty thieves, but they make a plan to return everything they've ever stolen and, in the process, grow closer.

Thunderous. By M.L. Smoker and Natalie Peeterse. Art by Dale Ray DeForest. 2022. 96p. Dynamite Entertainment, paper, $16.99 (9781948206464). Gr.4-6. 741.5973.

A young girl of the Lakota Nation is thrust into the spirit world where she faces a dangerous journey.

Tin Man. By Justin Madson. Art by the author. 2022. 219p. Amulet Books, paper, $17.99 (9781419751059). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Campbell the Tin Man enters the lives of siblings Fenn and Solar in a modern-day version of Oz.

The Walking Cat, vol. 1-3: A Cat's-Eye View of the Zombie Apocalypse. By Tomo Kitaoka. Art by the author. 2021. 525p. Seven Seas Entertainment, paper, $24.99 (9781648276118). General Adult. 741.5952.

Experience the zombie apocalypse from the perspective of a fearless feline named Yuki and his trio of human companions. Collects volumes 1-3.

The Way of the Househusband. By Kousuke Oono. Art by the author.

  • vol. 7. 2022. 158p. VIZ Media, paper, $12.99 (9781974727285). General Adult. 741.5952.
  • vol. 8. 2022. 168p. VIZ Media, paper, $12.99 (9781974732234). General Adult. 741.5952.

Former Yakuza dragon and current househusband Tetsu's story continues with a haiku competition, collecting neighborhood dues, and more.

The Well. By Jake Wyatt. Art by Choo. 2022. 176p. First Second, paper, $17.99 (9781626724143). Gr. 10-12. 741.5973.

Young trader Lizzy gets more than she bargains for when she takes three coins from a haunted wishing well.

Whisper Me a Love Song, vol. 4. By Eku Takeshima. Art by the author. 2021. 146p. Kodansha Comics, paper, $12.99 (9781646512287). General Adult. 741.5952.

Yuri and Himari are finally dating and now must figure out what a relationship together looks like.

The Witch Owl Parliament: Clockwork Curandera, vol. 1. By David Bowles. Art by Raul the Third. 2021. 99p. Tu Books, paper, $18.95 (9781620145920). Gr. 7-9. 741.5973.

Apprentice curandera Cristina is killed fighting Witch Owls and then resurrected by her brother's illegal use of alchemy.

Witchy, vol. 2. By Ariel Slamet Ries. Art by the author. 2022. 184p. Oni Press, paper, $14.99 (9781637150184). Gr.7-9. 741.5973.

The continuing story of teen witch Nyneve, who is on the run and on a quest to find a hermit craftsman who will help her make a magical broom.

The Woman in the Woods and Other North American Stories. Edited by Kate Ashwin, Kel McDonald, and Alina Pete. Art by Milo Applejohn, Mercedes Acosta, Jordaan Arledge, Elijah Forbes, Rhael McGregor, Maija Ambrose Plamondon, Alice Rl, and Izzy Roberts. 2022. 120p. Iron Circus Comics, paper, $15.00 (9781945820977). Gr. 4-6. 741.5973.

Indigenous creators collaborate on this graphic anthology of retellings based on various Native American tales, lore, and cultures.

Young Men in Love: A Queer Romance Anthology. By David Booher, Terry Blas, Anthony Oliveira, Paul Allor, Charles Pulliam-Moore, Rich Douek, Jarrett Melendez and Dave Ebersole. Art by Sina Grace, Chris Shehan, Nick Robles, Jacoby Salcedo, Dennis Yatras, Josh Cornillon, Bradley Clayton and Jan McGinty. 2022. 200p. Wave Blue World, paper, $19.99 (9781949518207). General Adult. 741.5973.

An anthology of short graphic stories in a diverse array of styles and genres celebrating love in the LGBTQ+ community.