Are comics ok for kids to read? Absolutely! Not only are they fun, but from verbal and visual literacy to critical thinking and memory they are also a tool that helps to create a genuine love of reading.
While the connection of words and pictures at first seems playful, the skills that readers develop help provide a practical foundation for other kinds of learning. Plus the story told can often be followed just from the visual content helping children to build confidence with their reading. With comics and graphic novels readers actively construct the story as they travel across and down the page from panel to panel, processing the text and images. Furthermore, the vivid images transport readers, making them feel like they’re there in the middle of the action. This creative and interactive process makes reading engaging and often more fun. Evidence and research is stacking up to prove that comic books make their readers smarter.
Here are our 10 top recommendations for Young Readers this Summer
Marvel Action Captain Marvel £2.99 is a monthly comic written by Sam Maggs and Art by Sweeney Boo
These Marvel Action superheroes series have specifically been created to meet the need of the younger reader who love their superheroes.
Secret Life of Unicorns by Dr. Temisa Seraphini & Sophie Robin HB £14.99
Every young reader who takes their imagination seriously should have this magical book about the majestic Unicorns of the world.
The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks PB £10.99
“The Nameless City,” takes place in an oft-conquered metropolis located at a key geographic crossroads. Claimed by many peoples, each with a different name for it. Natives call it the Nameless City, so as not to give legitimacy to the rule of their overlords. Suitable for young teens plus.
Hilda and The Stone Forest by Luke Pearson PB £7.99
The city of Trolberg has some dark secrets to reveal, and our favourite blue-haired adventurer is about to discover them! Extremely popular young reader series.
City of Shifting Waters by Jean Claude Mezieres & Pierre Christin PB £6.99
Valerian and Laureline, space/time agents of the Earth’s future, patrol our history to maintain the timeline. A legendary and highly influential SF series.
Ancient Wonders by Iris Volant & Avalon Nuovo HB £12.99
No one knows quite who decided the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Go on a journey across the world and through time, and explore these impressive monuments through stunning artwork.
A Mouse called Julian by Joe Todd Stanton HB £12.95
When the fox tries to sneak into Julian’s burrow for a tasty bite of mouse, it finds itself stuck headfirst in Julian’s front door! At first they are both alarmed and wary, but it’s not long before each realizes that they have found in the other a lifelong friend.
Lumberjanes Gotham Academy PB £14.99
When a teacher at Gotham Academy goes missing, it’s up to Olive, Maps, Colton, Pom, and Kyle to figure out what is happening and how to get her back. Suitable for young teens plus.
Skyward volume 1 written by Joe Henderson and Art by Lee Garbett PB £8.99
Gravity on earth has disappeared and after G-day everyone had to adapt. The young Willa is happy with her life, but there are surprises in store for her. A sci-fi adventure story for young teens plus.
Comic Deal for Young readers £6.50
Two specially selected comics every month. Each comic is the first of a new series, a new story arc, or great jumping on point! A heady mix of superheroes, and fantasy comics all suitable for young readers. An exciting introduction to comics, and great way to keep the reading habit going.