2024 Maverick Graphic Novel Reading List Announced

Graphic novels are increasingly popular with readers of all ages. These novels powerfully combine images and text, contain diverse characters, encourage empathy among readers and invite them to explore settings both fictional and real.

The Texas Maverick Graphic Novels Reading List (TMGNRL) is a recommended reading list developed by public and school librarians from the Young Adult Round Table (YART). The purpose of the list is to encourage students in grades 6-12 to explore a variety of current books.

In Jarrett J. Krosoczka’s Sunshine: How One Camp Taught Me About Life, Death and Hope, the author movingly illustrates his memories of his time as a camp counselor at a camp for kids with cancer.

In Thien Pham’s Family Style: Memories of an American from Vietnam, the author recounts his family’s harrowing journey from Vietnam to the U.S. and illustrates the struggles of making a new life in California, along with sharing memories of food and key moments in his family’s life.

Starred titles = unanimous vote by committee

Full list

The Maverick Reading List is not designed to support any particular curriculum. Librarians are not required or expected to purchase every book on the list. Due to the diversity in age range and topics, librarians should follow their local collection development policies and guidelines when considering which titles to purchase for their library.