Graphic Novels are a unique combination of art and storytelling that bring characters and settings to life in a way that traditional books simply can’t. Graphic Novels have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are able to tell stories in a way that appeals to readers of all ages.
From superheroes to autobiographies, there is something for everyone. Graphic Novels are a great way to explore new worlds, get lost in a good story, and experience the power of art. Here are 5 WBS Picks to check out right now!
Edmund White’s A Boy’s Own Story: The Graphic Novel
Edmund White’s A Boy’s Own Story: The Graphic Novel is a landmark American novel, hailed by the New York Times as J.D. Salinger crossed with Oscar Wilde and masterfully reimagined as a timeless graphic novel.
It is written by writers Michael Carroll and Brian Alessandro, with illustrations by Igor Karash. It is available for purchase in hardcover format. It is described by John Irving, Alison Bechdel, and Foreword Reviews as a provocative coming-of-age story, offering further insight and emotional depth to a landmark work in the panoply of LGBTQ fiction.
Super Spy by Matt Kindt
Super Spy by Matt Kindt is an incredible and innovative graphic novel that provides a complex and interconnected story of espionage and intrigue set during World War II. Featuring 52 “Dossiers” that are all out of sequence, Super Spy is a thrilling adventure full of secrets, gadgets, and suspense.
The unique, angular style of Matt Kindt’s illustrations is mesmerizing, and the page layout and design are highly innovative.
In addition to Super Spy, Matt Kindt’s collaboration with Sharlene Kindt, 2 Sisters: A Super Spy Graphic Novel and Super Spy: The Lost Dossiers provide further insight into the story and characters. Super Spy is a must-read for fans of espionage and thrilling stories!
Drawing on Anxiety: Finding Calm Through Creativity by Kate Sutton
Drawing On Anxiety: Finding calm through creativity is an excellent book for anyone looking to explore their creative side and reduce their anxiety. It is full of guided prompts, grounding affirmations, and mindful activities that help to reduce stress and anxiety. The author, Kate Sutton, draws on her own personal experiences with anxiety to create a warm and friendly atmosphere.
The book contains many creative activities such as drawing, painting, coloring, sewing, writing and more, to help manage anxiety symptoms and calm down in the moment. It also includes an Appendix E, which provides pre and post-drawing self-anxiety-rating-scale data.
Drawing On Anxiety is a calming and soothing book that will help anyone looking to manage their anxiety. The illustrations are beautiful and the author’s writing style is gentle and calming. I highly recommend Drawing On Anxiety: Finding Calm Through Creativity for anyone looking to reduce their anxiety through creativity.
Spa by Erik Svetoft
Spa is a graphic novel debut by Erik Svetoft. It is a biting critique of consumer society and the “wellness” industry that recalls the films of David Lynch and Lars Von Trier and the horror manga of Junji Ito.
It follows a five-star spa and conference hotel in northern Europe, where mysterious moisture damage is spreading, and the characters are struggling to find acceptance and escape the horror of everyday life, including horrific apparitions.
The book is available for pre-order in the English edition from Fantagraphics and the Swedish edition from Sanatorium Förlag.
Queenie: Godmother of Harlem by Elizabeth Colomba
Queenie: Godmother of Harlem is a gripping historical graphic novel that shines a light on an unsung heroine of Black Harlem. Elizabeth Colomba and Aurélie Lévy take the reader through the exciting life of Stephanie Saint-Clair, the legendary mobster of Harlem.
Colomba’s art style brings the story to life with a fashion forward quality and Levy’s narration keeps the story interesting. The story follows Saint-Clair’s rise to power as she fights to build a better life for her community amid corrupt police and mafia.
Queenie’s courage and determination is inspiring to see and the glossary and list of historical figures at the back of the book is an added bonus. Queenie: Godmother of Harlem is an important addition to the Black history cannon and is sure to inspire readers of all ages.