The 12 Best Graphic Novels for Tween Girls

What's a graphic novel, you ask? Graphic novels are books that are the length of a novel, but told in both pictures and words. Think comic books, but longer. And graphic novels are taking the tween world by storm, especially for girls. I'll share why I think graphic novels turn kids into readers and share some of the more popular graphic novels in my classroom so you can try them with your kids.

Over the last several years, the graphic novel genre has exploded. And for good reason, girls are reading and loving them. As a reading teacher, I see great success with graphic novels. Many times kids have come up to me having just finished a graphic novel to tell me that "this is the first book I've ever read." It's a powerful thing to see a tween have the confidence and pleasure of just finishing their first book.

While some parents are concerned that graphic novels don't offer the same benefits as "real books," there are plenty of reasons to let your girls read them with verve.

• They are less intimidating for reluctant readers. Graphic novels may motivate kids who are reluctant to pick up a novel with "just words."
• Volume matters. Graphic novels are quick reads, which means kids will read more of them. Research shows that the more kids read, the better they become at reading.
• Looking at pictures requires thinking, too. Kids must interpret both words and visual images when reading a graphic novel, requiring their brains to actively process more than one kind of information.
• Life lessons. Graphic novels are fun and entertaining, but they also delve into the tough topics that teens face, like seeking identity, building relationships and enduring change.

While the graphic novels below are popular with my boys as well as my girls, many of the titles below have special appeal to middle school girls. They feature tough, sassy female leads and touch on many of the realities are girls face: belonging, confidence, bullies and figuring out where you fit in (or don't).

But don't be fooled though parents, I've read and loved every one of them. You might find them just as enjoyable as your kids do!

Want to find out more about graphic novels or other books for teens and tweens?

There are several places you can find reviews and suggestions for books that tweens and teens will love. Check out the following links for reviews of graphic novels and other books for teens.

Teen Reads https://www.teenreads.com/

Epic Reads epicreads.tumblr.com/

Do you know of a graphic novel that your daughter or sister or friend just loves? Be sure to share it in the comments below.