A recent report is citing teachers’ growing concerns over what they deem a “reading crisis” across the U.S. Overall, 15-year-old students are reading at historic lows — and declining since 2012. And a national analysis of state test scores revealed that reading scores for fourth and eighth graders have fallen to their lowest levels in years. These findings are troubling, to be sure, and many parents are wondering what they can do to help stem the tide.
Instilling a love of reading into your child looks different than it did in past generations, and the competition with phones and screens isn’t helping matters. Tech isn’t going away, which means meeting your child where they are. That’s where graphic novels come in.
A longstanding myth around graphic novels is that they don’t count as “real” reading — but that couldn’t be more false. Graphic novels heavily utilize visual elements to develop and tell a story, but they also incorporate text that readers need to decode and analyze, as well as follow the plot and character development — all essential for improving reading comprehension.
Check out the following picks to entice even the most reluctant reader to curl up with a good book:
New Kid by Jerry Craft
Best for Grades 3-7
This Newbery Medal award-winning graphic novel covers middle school angst, self-discovery and the struggle to fit in with relatable candor. Readers will see themselves in seventh-grader Jordan Banks as he finds himself split between his new private school and his old neighborhood.
Hoops: A Graphic Novel by Matt Tavares
Best for Grades 3-7
Based on a true story, this read is an inspiring look at teamwork, friendship, and the early days of Title IX, when girls had to fight for the right to play sports. It’s an engaging and relatable read for sports lovers and history lovers alike.
Picture Day by Sarah Sax
Best for Grades 3-7
Meet seventh-grader Viv as she navigates middle school friendship, identity, and the messy side of going viral. Funny, modern, and relatable, this pick is the quintessential middle grade read. And if your kid enjoys this title, look for the other books in the Brinkley Yearbooks trilogy series (which can be read in any order).
Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Best for Grades 7 and up
This award-winning graphic memoir explores serious issues such as addiction, family dysfunction and the power of perseverance. Author/illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka tells the inspiring story of his family’s hidden secrets and how his artistic talent helped him navigate hardship and build resilience.
Heartstopper: Volume 1 by Alice Oseman
Best for Grade 9 and up
The first installment in this graphic series follows the budding romance between shy, softhearted Charlie and rugby player Nick. Sweet and uplifting, it showcases first love and a positive portrayal of LGBTQ characters.
