Kids' Corner

Graphic Novels for Children

Graphic novels are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you haven’t read one you might want to give it a try.  They are an alternative format, which requires a different kind of reading while following the action in the illustrations.  HPL has a large collection of graphic novels for teens;  over the past year we’ve purchased a number of titles for the Children’s Room.  Here are some of them:

Sardine in Outer Space (#1, #2, #3)  by Emmanuel Guibert
Sardine, a space pirate, has many exciting adventures with her friend Little Louie.
Grades 3 – 6

Fashion Kitty  by Charise Harper
An accident transforms Kiki Kittie into Fashion Kitty, whose superpowers enable her to help with fashion emergencies!
Grades 4 – 7

Babymouse:  Queen of the World  by Jennifer and Matthew Holm
Meet the smart, sassy, and imaginative mouse, who sees her life as a series of exciting adventures.  Followed by Babymouse Our Hero, Beach Babe, Rock Star, Heartbreaker, and Camp Babymouse.
Grades 3 – 6

The Many Adventures of Johnny Mutton  by James Proimos
A young sheep being raised as a regular boy, Johnny has a quirky sense of humor that continually surprises his teacher and classmates.  Followed by He’s So Him  and Mutton Soup.
Ages 5 – 9

Owly:  The Way Home and The Bittersweet Summer  by Andy Runton
The charming, nearly wordless episodes about the friendship between Owly and Wormy will make you smile.  Followed by Just a Little Blue  and Flying Lessons.
Grades 3 – 5

Time Warp Trio Volume 1:  Nightmare on Joe’s Street  by Jon Scieszka
The popular series of books about three boys who travel through time (thanks to a magical birthday present) is now being adapted into graphic novels from the television series.
Grades 3 – 6

The Invention of Hugo Cabret  by Brian Selznick
This unique novel in words and pictures,  set in 1930’s Paris, at times resembles a silent movie.
Ages 9 – 12

To Dance:  A Ballerina’s Graphic Novel  by Siena and Mark Siegel
A memoir which follows the author’s life from age 6, taking dance lessons in Puerto Rico, to her training at the School of American Ballet in New York.
Grades 4 – 7

Don’t forget,  registration for our Summer Reading Program begins on June 19.

Also, take a look at the 3 Apples Book Award website (www.3applesbookaward.org); the list of 15 titles that children throughout New York State can vote on has been posted.  You can read or listen to them as part of your summer activities.

Happy Reading!
Ellen Xydias, Children’s Librarian
June 2007