5 brilliant graphic novels

These books deal with lots of topics using pictures to help power their storytelling.

Cross My Heart and Never Lie by Nora Dasnes (Farshore)

It’s the start of a new school year and for 12-year-old Tuva everything is changing. Her best friends have split into two groups and Tuva is expected to choose a side. Then Mariam turns up and things begin to make more sense. This graphic novel is a tale of friendship and growing up.

Stitch Head: The Graphic Novel by Guy Bass and Pete Williamson (Little Tiger Press)

Stitch Head is a strange little creature who lives in the depths of Castle Grotteskew. A travelling circus ringmaster knocks at the castle door and promises to make him a star. Could this be Stitch Head’s big chance – or is he making a terrible mistake? A new picture-driven edition of a popular story, this is a dark and funny delight.

The Marvels by Brian Selznick (Scholastic)

In 1766, Billy Marvel, the lone survivor of a shipwreck, tells the story of his family of actors. While that story is unfolding, the plot moves to 1990, when Joseph runs away from school to his uncle’s house. This beautiful and unusual book tells two stories at the same time in words and pictures.

School Trip by Jerry Craft (HarperCollins Children’s)

Jordan, Drew, Liam and their friends are heading to Paris on a school trip. Jordan can’t wait to explore the city’s galleries and museums – but there will be unexpected challenges ahead. The sequel to

New Kid and Class Act is a very funny story about school, friends and new experiences.

Pablo and Splash by Sheena Dempsey (Bloomsbury Children’s)

Pablo and Splash are Antarctic penguins – and best friends. When adventurous Splash persuades Pablo to go on holiday, their plans go awry and they end up travelling through time to the land of the dinosaurs. With plenty of crazy antics and wacky humour, this colourful graphic novel will delight fans of Bunny vs Monkey.