Finding Longer Graphic Novels for Elementary Schoolers Who Love to Read

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Many parents struggle to find books that captivate their elementary school-aged children and keep them engaged. This is particularly true when a child has devoured popular series like ‘Captain Underpants,’ ‘Dog Man,’ ‘Cat Kid,’ ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid,’ and ‘The Bad Guys,’ and is now seeking something more substantial. The challenge is amplified when the child specifically requests graphic novels but finds some options, like ‘Narwhal and Jelly,’ too short, and longer chapter books, while accessible (like ‘Harry Potter’), too daunting for sustained engagement at the moment.

This post highlights a common parenting dilemma: how to bridge the gap between shorter, highly engaging graphic novels and longer prose novels for a child who is developing their reading stamina and preferences. The child enjoys Minecraft but dislikes the Minecraft books, and finds series like ‘Magic Treehouse’ too easy, despite having enjoyed ‘Wayside School.’ This indicates a need for graphic novels that offer more complex narratives or a greater volume of content without overwhelming the reader.

When looking for graphic novels that are longer and suitable for an 8-year-old, consider series that offer a continuous storyline or a higher page count per volume. Some popular recommendations that fit this criteria include:

Amulet Series by Kazu Kibuishi: This fantasy adventure series features intricate artwork and a compelling plot that progresses across multiple books. It’s known for its slightly more mature themes and engaging world-building, making it a good step up from shorter series.
Bone Series by Jeff Smith: A critically acclaimed epic fantasy series with humor and adventure. While it has a classic comic feel, the story is substantial and spans several volumes.
Hilo Series by Judd Winick: This science fiction adventure series is action-packed and humorous, with ongoing story arcs that keep readers invested.
InvestiGators Series by John Patrick Green: Similar in tone to ‘Dog Man’ but with longer, more involved mysteries. The characters are engaging, and the stories provide a good amount of reading material.
The Dragon Prince (graphic novel adaptations): Based on the popular animated series, these graphic novels offer rich storylines and vibrant illustrations. They are generally longer and more narrative-driven.
Guts by Raina Telgemeier: While Raina Telgemeier’s books are often considered middle grade, her relatable themes of anxiety and friendship, combined with her accessible art style, can be a good bridge. ‘Guts,’ ‘Smile,’ and ‘Sisters’ are longer and delve deeper into character development.
Last Kids on Earth Series by Max Brallier: This series blends graphic novel elements with prose and is a fantastic option for kids who like adventure and humor. The illustrations are plentiful and break up the text effectively, making it less intimidating than a pure novel.

It’s also worth exploring series that have a strong following and multiple installments, even if they aren’t strictly ‘graphic novels’ in the traditional sense, but incorporate significant visual storytelling. The key is to find books that offer enough story and visual interest to maintain engagement over several reading sessions. Don’t be discouraged by a child’s specific tastes; it’s a sign they are developing their own literary preferences!

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