A Parent’s Guide to the Best Kids’ Comics

My son loves graphic novels and comics. He learned to read easily, but still didn’t like to read. But when he started reading comics which I bought as compilations — Garfield, Calvin and Hobbes, Peanuts and more — he saw reading as something to enjoy, not something to dread.

Now he’s a 3rd grader, and enjoys chapter books, but he still loves comics and graphic novels. I love having a variety of reading materials around for him. We have some tried and true favorites, but this book gave me so much more to look into! When you buy books online (which is where I get over half of my books), you have to rely on the reviews and publisher description if you are looking for new series, and I’ve often gambled.

A Parent’s Guide to the Best Kids’ Comics: Choosing Titles Your Children Will Love is a fantastic resource. The book is organized by grade (Pre-K to 1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-8), and then further clarified by genre, with all sorts of categories like non-fiction, humor, mystery, superhero, adventure, wordless, romance, fantasy. Each listing has each appropriate category, clearly labeled with a tab-like bar on the edge, easy to see when you are just flipping through. All books/series are listed alphabetically (sorted by age) in the back.

Each book/series is given a two-page spread. On the right side, there is a page of the book so you can see the exact style and tone of the pictures and words. The left side contains a thorough PLOT SUMMARY description, including why it might appeal specifically to children. EDUCATIONAL TIE-INS are listed by topic, wonderful for teachers trying to incorporate topical ideas into the classroom. For example in the Babymouse section, the tie-ins are listed by topic for those general to the series and title for specifics, including but not limited to bullying, cliques, self-esteem, mathematics (Dragonslayer), sibling relationships (Beach Babe), Science (Mad Scientist). A HEADS UP gives any issues that might be of concern to parents such as name-calling, violence (cartoon or realistic), potty-humor etc.

WHAT’S NEXT is perhaps the most valuable section, giving a couple recommendations of books by the same author, or in the same style or theme.

Now, excuse me while I browse online. I certainly have some ideas. Check out A Parent’s Guide to the Best Kids’ Comics now to get some great gift ideas for all the kids on your Christmas list, and to continue fueling your own kids’ desire to read.