As of 2023, the graphic novel market in North America has soared to an impressive $1.87 billion, as reported by Publishers Weekly. Interestingly, the best-selling graphic novels of the previous year predominantly did not cater to middle-grade and young adult (YA) female readers. Despite the lack of specific gender data, there is a noticeable increase in young female presence at various comic-related events, including conventions, bookstore signings, and local comic shops.
If you have a budding comic book enthusiast at home, consider introducing them to these 15 exceptional graphic novels that are primarily aimed at girls. This collection is not only appealing to young readers but also engaging for adult audiences, as each title offers high-quality storytelling and artistry.
15. Read at Your Own Risk
In 2024, Read at Your Own Risk by acclaimed cartoonist Remy Lai stands out with its unique diary-style narration, reminiscent of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid. This graphic novel follows Hannah, who confronts a haunting dairy spirit that threatens her existence, presenting young readers with gripping imagery from the middle-grade horror genre.
14. Wildflower Emily: A Story About Young Emily Dickinson
Lydia Corry’s Wildflower Emily (2024) offers a glimpse into the early life of Emily Dickinson, a seminal figure in American poetry. This graphic novel focuses on her innocent childhood adventures with her dog, beautifully exploring themes of nature and companionship, while steering clear of the complexities of her adult life.
13. Misfit Mansion
Misfit Mansion (2023) by Kay Davault, features adorable misfit monsters residing at a paranormal investigator’s foster home. With vibrant illustrations, the story highlights their quest for identity and belonging, culminating in whimsical adventures during a Halloween festival.
12. Wait Till Helen Comes Graphic Novel: A Ghost Story
Adapted by Scott Peterson, Meredith Laxton, and Russ Badgett, Wait Till Helen Comes (2022) revisits Mary Downing Hahn’s award-winning novel, weaving a spooky narrative of a girl named Molly navigating complex family dynamics against a backdrop of supernatural happenings.
11. Cheer Up!: Love and Pompoms
Crafted by LGBTQIA+ creators Crystal Frasier and Val Wise, Cheer Up! (2021) delivers a heartfelt coming-of-age story about a trans cheerleader navigating love, friendship, and high school challenges while promoting themes of allyship and acceptance.
10. Doña Quixote: Flight of the Witch
Flight of the Witch (2024), written by Rey Terciero and illustrated by Monica M. Magaña, brings a modern twist to Cervantes’ classic tale through the eyes of Lucia, a courageous Texan girl facing mythical threats with humor and heart.
9. Hellaween: A Graphic Novel
Brought to life by Moss Lawton, the Hellaween series elegantly combines dark humor with supernatural themes, chronicling aspiring witch Gwen’s adventures with local bullies and her desperate wish to escape the monotony of suburban life.
8. Scarlet Witch: The Complete Collection
This compilation offers an essential exploration of Wanda Maximoff’s journey as the Scarlet Witch, written by James Robinson and illustrated by celebrated artists like Joelle Jones and Tula Lotay, diving into themes of legacy, magic, and identity.
7. All’s Faire in Middle School
All’s Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson invites readers into the charming world of role-playing and the struggles of fitting in, celebrating individuality as a strength in a story perfect for middle-grade readers.
6. The Ojja-Wojja
The inaugural volume of The Ojja-Wojja (2023), by Magdelene Visaggio and Jenn St-Onge, follows two eighth-grade outcasts whose journey into their town’s paranormal history leads them to confront and embrace their true selves, challenging the norms of their community.
5. Youth Group
Set against the backdrop of 1990s California, Youth Group (2024) by Jordan Morris and Bowen McCurdy tells the humorous story of an unusual band of demon hunters who defy traditional views to unite various faiths in their quest to preserve the world from evil.
4. A Haunted Girl
A Haunted Girl (2024) thoughtfully addresses critical mental health issues affecting adolescents through a narrative that illustrates the complexities of healing and the unique challenges faced by teenage girls.
3. Ghost Roast
Ghost Roast, penned by Shawneé and Shawnelle Gibbs and illustrated by Emily Cannon, takes readers on a ghost-hunting adventure full of humor and romance, set in the spooky landscapes of New Orleans. Chelsea Grant’s journey reveals her unexpected ability to see spirits, enriching her summer experience with a blend of history and the paranormal.
2. Leap
Launching November 12, 2024, Leap by Simina Popescu centers on the journeys of queer dance students in Romania, shedding light on the complexities of acceptance and the dance industry while championing LGBTQIA+ representation.
1. M Is for Monster: A Graphic Novel
M Is for Monster (2022) reinterprets Mary Shelley’s gothic classic, Frankenstein, through the eyes of a modern character grappling with issues of self-identity and belonging, making it an enriching read for fans of psychological horror.
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