Fabulous Fives: Graphic Novels for Kids

I've decided to get realistic and instead of Friday Fives, I changed the theme to Fabulous Fives. Now, I can post my five favorite things whenever I feel like it, and that works for me :) Loosen the binds of expectations...ahh.

The Bean, The Fly Catcher

This week's Fabulous Fives brought to you by The Bean. Last night, she bounced back and forth on her hind legs along the window sill, tracking a pesky fly. It was cute, it was funny, and the fly met its demise. Awesome. Of course, I had to take a picture and that's when I discovered the photobomb: a stack of comic style books in the corner.

I don't usually lean toward comic books, but after reading a few, I've come to appreciate them. They're quick reads, engaging visually, and when paired with beautiful stories, become winners all around. Reluctant readers as well as reluctant graphic novel readers (moi) will appreciate these:

1.) Smile (or anything by Raina Telgemeier)
Number one on my list! My ultimate fave for a satisfying middle grade story.

2.) El Deafo by Cece Bell
Wonderful story about seeing one's disability in a new light. For the elementary set.

3.) Babymouse series by Jennifer and Matthew Holm
Just plain funny. Great voice and personality for elementary and middle grade readers.

4.) Amulet series by Kazu Kibuishi
I read the first one and adored the artwork. It's an adventure series for elementary ages on up.

5.) Benny and Penny in Just Pretend by Geoffrey Hayes
A super cute book for young kids introducing the graphic style. Think picture book.

I'd like to give a nod to Sunny Side Up by Jennifer and Matthew Holm. It's the book photobombing my picture. A good read for elementary kids living in contrast: the young living with the old, a child acting like a parent, and a big brother who you can't look up to.

"Drawing is putting a line round an idea." ~ Henri Matisse