Graphic novels are a great way to encourage reluctant readers to actually enjoy reading. Here’s a list of popular, family-friendly graphic novels that are excellent choices for kids and teens with dyslexia, arranged by age range. Many of these books can also be found at your local library.

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Graphic Novels for Ages 6–8 (Early Readers)

1. Narwhal and Jelly by Ben Clanton

• Why it works: Simple text, lots of white space, silly humor, and visual context.
• Themes: Friendship, ocean animals, imagination.

2. Benny and Penny (Toon Books) by Geoffrey Hayes

• Why it works: Easy vocabulary, relatable sibling interactions, large text.
• Themes: Problem-solving, relationships.

3. Owly by Andy Runton

• Why it works: Wordless or minimal text, relies on expressive artwork.
• Themes: Kindness, helping others, friendship.

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Graphic Novels for Ages 8–10 (Middle Grades/Early Chapter Readers)

4. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey

• Why it works: High-interest, silly, phonetic spelling that validates different learning styles.
• Themes: Humor, justice, friendship.

5. The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey

• Why it works: Short chapters, accessible language, fast-paced.
• Themes: Redemption, teamwork, humor.

6. Bird & Squirrel by James Burks

• Why it works: Bright illustrations, action-driven, dialogue-heavy but readable.
• Themes: Friendship, bravery, opposites.

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Graphic Novels for Ages 10–13 (Tweens / Upper Elementary to Middle School)

7. El Deafo by Cece Bell

• Why it works: Autobiographical story with humor and heart, dyslexia-friendly font spacing and large illustrations.
• Themes: Disability, identity, acceptance.

8. Hilo series by Judd Winick

• Why it works: Sci-fi adventure with short dialogue, expressive art, and visual storytelling.
• Themes: Belonging, friendship, bravery.

9. Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi

• Why it works: Rich, captivating visuals, suspenseful storytelling.
• Themes: Family, fantasy, courage.

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Graphic Novels for Ages 13+ (Teens / Young Adult)

10. Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

• Why it works: Coming-of-age themes, easy-to-follow panels, emotional resonance.
• Themes: Sports, friendship, self-discovery.

11. Smile / Sisters / Guts by Raina Telgemeier

• Why it works: Highly relatable stories for tweens and teens, clean layouts.
• Themes: Family, growing up, anxiety, confidence.

12. Drama by Raina Telgemeier

• Why it works: Theater-themed middle school story with humor and heart.
• Themes: Friendship, identity, inclusion.

13. When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson & Omar Mohamed

• Why it works: Larger text, compelling story, and powerful visuals help comprehension.
• Themes: Refugees, resilience, hope.

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Bonus Picks: Graphic Novels for All Ages

– Toon Books Collection (Various authors)

• Created specifically for emerging and struggling readers.
• Designed with dyslexia-friendly spacing, vocabulary, and pacing.

– Graphic Novel Adaptations of Classics (e.g., The Boxcar Children, Anne of Green Gables)

• Offer access to stories students might not read otherwise.

Other Articles of Interest

Hi-Lo Books for Reluctant Readers

Audiobook Resources

Teaching Reading to Kids With Dyslexia

Do you have any graphic novel recommendations? Leave them in the comments below!