The Greatest American, Japanese "Comics & Graphic Novels, Fiction" Books Since 1970

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Comics & Graphic Novels

"Comics & Graphic Novels" is a diverse and dynamic category of books that encompasses a wide range of visual storytelling forms. This genre is characterized by sequential art—a series of illustrations which, when combined with text, narrate a story or bring to life complex ideas and emotions. Comics can range from brief strips to serialized stories in magazines, while graphic novels are typically longer, bound works that often tell a complete narrative in one volume. The content can vary from superhero adventures, fantasy, and science fiction to autobiographical works, historical drama, and profound explorations of social and political themes. This category is known for its ability to transcend age barriers, appealing to children, teens, and adults alike, and is celebrated for its unique blend of literary and artistic expression that can convey intricate stories with both depth and visual impact.

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  1. 1. Watchmen by Alan Moore

    Set in an alternate history where superheroes emerged in the 1940s and 1980s, the story follows a group of retired superheroes who are brought out of retirement after the murder of one of their own. As they investigate, they uncover a plot that could change the course of history and the balance of world power. The book explores complex themes such as the morality of power, the definition of heroism, and the value of human life.

    The 499th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Jimmy Corrigan, the Smartest Kid on Earth by Chris Ware

    The book is a graphic novel that tells the story of Jimmy Corrigan, an awkward and lonely man in his mid-thirties. Jimmy has lived his entire life under the thumb of his overbearing mother. When he receives a letter from his estranged father, whom he has never met, he embarks on a journey that takes him from his home in Chicago to a small town in Michigan. Along the way, the narrative delves into the lives of his ancestors, revealing a history of loneliness and disappointment that seems to be repeating itself in Jimmy's own life.

    The 1428th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Akira by Katsuhiro Otomo

    Set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, this graphic novel follows the lives of two teenage friends, Tetsuo and Kaneda, who are members of a biker gang. After a motorcycle accident, Tetsuo develops telekinetic abilities and is taken by the military, which fears his growing powers might unleash another cataclysmic event similar to the one that destroyed Tokyo years earlier. As Tetsuo's powers spiral out of control, Kaneda, along with a group of rebels and psychics, must try to stop him and uncover the secrets of a mysterious entity known as "Akira," which is at the heart of the government's experiments and the city's destruction. The narrative explores themes of power, corruption, and the quest for identity against a backdrop of cyberpunk visuals and intense action.

    The 2265th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Uzumaki by Junji Ito

    The book is a horror manga that centers around a small fog-bound Japanese town cursed by supernatural events involving spirals. As the obsession with the spiral pattern begins to spread among the townspeople, it manifests in increasingly bizarre and terrifying ways, warping both the minds of the inhabitants and the very fabric of the town itself. The narrative follows a high school teenager and her boyfriend as they struggle to understand and survive the madness engulfing their once-peaceful home, revealing the spiral's hypnotic and monstrous influence on both the human psyche and the natural world.

    The 2893rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey

    The book follows the mischievous antics of two fourth-grade friends who, after hypnotizing their grumpy principal, turn him into Captain Underpants, a superhero of their own comic book creation. The boys navigate through a series of humorous adventures as they control the principal-turned-superhero, who has no actual powers but is convinced of his own heroism. Their escapades are filled with pranks, battles against ridiculous villains, and plenty of toilet humor, all while trying to keep their principal's alter ego a secret and manage the chaos they've unleashed at their elementary school.

    The 3236th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

    "American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang is a graphic novel that weaves together three distinct storylines to explore themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and self-acceptance. The book follows the lives of Jin Wang, a Chinese-American boy struggling to fit in at school, the Monkey King, a mythical character striving for acceptance among his peers, and Danny, a white American teenager dealing with his Chinese cousin's visit. Through these interconnected narratives, the book delves into the complexities of being an immigrant and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities in America.

    The 4069th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Love and Rockets: Maggie the Mechanic and Love and Rockets: Heartbreak Soup by Jaime, Gilbert Hernandez

    The graphic novel series presents a richly woven tapestry of life, intertwining two primary narratives: one follows the adventures of a young, ambitious Latina mechanic named Maggie and her best friend and sometimes lover Hopey, as they navigate the punk scene, complex relationships, and personal growth. The other delves into the magical realism of a Central American village called Palomar, where the lives of its quirky inhabitants unfold with a blend of humor, love, and tragedy. Both stories explore themes of culture, identity, and the human condition, rendered in a distinctive visual style that has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following.

    The 4992nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Saga Vol. 1 by Brian K. Vaughan

    In a war-torn galaxy, two soldiers from opposite sides fall in love and have a child, igniting a dangerous pursuit by various factions who seek to control the child's extraordinary powers. With a mix of fantasy, science fiction, and romance, "Saga Vol. 1" takes readers on a thrilling and visually stunning journey through a vast and imaginative universe.

    The 5675th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Building Stories by Chris Ware

    "Building Stories" is a unique graphic novel that explores the lives of the residents of a three-story Chicago apartment building, including a lonely single woman, a couple embroiled in a failing marriage, and the building's elderly landlady. The narrative is presented in a box containing 14 different printed works including books, newspapers, and pamphlets, each offering a different perspective on the characters' lives, struggles, and dreams. The innovative format allows readers to choose their own path through the interwoven stories, resulting in a deeply immersive and interactive reading experience.

    The 6484th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Vagabond Volume 1 by Takehiko Inoue

    This graphic novel follows the journey of a young, unruly Japanese swordsman in the 17th century, who embarks on a quest to become "invincible under the sun" after surviving a brutal battle that left most of his companions dead. Inspired by the life of a legendary historical figure, the protagonist's path is one of intense duels, personal growth, and philosophical exploration. As he travels, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each contributing to his understanding of what it means to live and fight with purpose. The story blends visceral action with deep introspection, set against the backdrop of a beautifully rendered feudal Japan.

    The 6578th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Habibi by Craig Thompson

    "Habibi" is a graphic novel that tells the story of Dodola and Zam, refugee child slaves who escape to the desert, where they rely on each other for survival. The story is a complex interweaving of themes including love, religion, exploitation, and the clash of cultures, told through a blend of Islamic folklore, the Qur'an, and contemporary issues. The novel explores the strength of human resilience and the deep bonds that can form even in the face of unimaginable hardship.

    The 6724th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast

    "Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant?" is a graphic memoir by Roz Chast that explores her relationship with her aging parents as they approach the end of their lives. Chast uses her signature humor and illustrations to navigate the difficult topics of illness, death, and family dynamics. The book captures the universal experience of caring for aging parents and the emotional toll it can take on adult children.

    The 7071st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Black Hole by Charles Burns

    The graphic novel in question is a dark and surreal exploration of adolescence, set in a 1970s Seattle suburb. It follows a group of high school students as they navigate the complexities of their teenage years, all while dealing with a mysterious sexually transmitted disease that causes grotesque physical mutations. The narrative delves into themes of alienation, transformation, and the desire for acceptance, weaving a haunting and visually striking tale that captures the anxieties and horrors of growing up.

    The 8346th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. One Piece by Eiichiro Oda

    The book is a thrilling adventure that follows a young, ambitious pirate whose dream is to find the world's ultimate treasure, known as "One Piece," and thereby become the Pirate King. Along his journey, he gathers a diverse crew of loyal companions, each with their own unique abilities and dreams. They sail the Grand Line, facing off against other pirates, the World Government, and various powerful enemies, all while exploring mysterious islands, uncovering hidden secrets, and forging strong bonds of friendship. The story is renowned for its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and a world rich with fantastical elements and lore.

    The 8459th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For by Alison Bechdel

    "The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For" is a compilation of comic strips that provide a satirical take on contemporary lesbian life, politics, and social issues. The book is a blend of personal and political content, focusing on the lives of a diverse group of women, their relationships, and their struggles. The comic strips provide commentary on various aspects of the LGBTQ+ experience, including identity, community, and activism.

    The 8495th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Blankets by Craig Thompson

    This graphic novel is a coming-of-age autobiography that explores the complexity of family relationships, faith, love, and the transition into adulthood. The story follows the protagonist as he navigates his way through a strict and oppressive religious upbringing in a rural, snowy setting. The narrative dives deep into his first love, his relationship with his younger brother, and his struggle to reconcile his religious beliefs with his personal experiences. The book is a poignant exploration of the heartache and joy of growing up.

    The 8957th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney

    In this humorous installment of a popular children's series, the protagonist, a middle-school boy, navigates the challenges of adolescence with a mix of awkwardness and misguided attempts at self-improvement. His father, concerned about his son's lazy habits, decides it's time for tough love, pushing him towards sports and other activities to toughen him up. The boy, however, has other plans, mainly involving his crush and finding ways to avoid his dad's new regime. Through a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings, he learns valuable lessons about responsibility, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself.

    The 9228th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. The Ghost In The Shell by Shirow Masamune

    This science fiction narrative delves into a future where cybernetic enhancements and artificial intelligence have blurred the lines between humanity and machines. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and cyber warfare, the story follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg operative of a government agency, as she hunts a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. Through her pursuit, the narrative explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the nature of the soul, questioning what it truly means to be human in a world where the physical and digital realms are indistinguishably intertwined.

    The 9363rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. A Bride's Story by Kaoru Mori

    "A Bride's Story" by Kaoru Mori is a captivating historical manga that follows the life of Amir Halgal, a young woman from a nomadic tribe in Central Asia during the 19th century. Set in a time of arranged marriages and cultural traditions, the story beautifully explores Amir's journey as she navigates the challenges and joys of becoming a bride. With stunning artwork and intricate details, the book offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in a bygone era, highlighting themes of love, family, and the resilience of women.

    The 9645th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Tokyo Ghoul by Sui Ishida

    In a dark and twisted version of Tokyo, creatures known as ghouls lurk in the shadows, surviving by consuming human flesh. The story follows a young college student who, after a fateful encounter with a ghoul, becomes a half-ghoul himself. Thrust into a hidden world filled with danger and hunger, he must navigate the blurred lines between human and monster, grappling with his new reality and the moral complexities of his insatiable appetite. As he struggles to maintain his humanity, he finds himself caught in the crossfire between ghoul factions and the relentless ghoul investigators determined to eradicate their kind.

    The 9684th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Hawkeye by Matt Fraction

    "Hawkeye" by Matt Fraction is a graphic novel that follows the life of Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye, a skilled archer and member of the Avengers. The story focuses on Clint's adventures outside of his superhero persona, showcasing his everyday struggles, relationships, and attempts to protect his neighborhood from crime. With a mix of action, humor, and heart, the book delves into the complexities of being a hero both on and off the battlefield.

    The 9838th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. My Brother's Husband by Gengoroh Tagame

    "My Brother's Husband" is a poignant and heartwarming graphic novel that explores themes of family, acceptance, and cultural differences. The story follows Yaichi, a single father in Japan, as he grapples with his own prejudices and preconceptions when his deceased brother's Canadian husband, Mike, comes to visit. Through their interactions, Yaichi begins to confront his own homophobia and learns the importance of embracing love and understanding in a changing world.

    The 10033rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Lumberjanes by Noelle Stevenson

    "Lumberjanes" is a graphic novel that follows a group of five diverse and adventurous girls at a summer camp, who stumble upon supernatural creatures and mysterious happenings in the nearby forest. As they work together to uncover the secrets of the camp, they also navigate themes of friendship, bravery, and self-discovery. With its charming illustrations and empowering narrative, "Lumberjanes" is a delightful and captivating read for all ages.

    The 10033rd Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Demon Slayer by Koyoharu Gotouge

    The book is a dark fantasy manga that follows the journey of a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons, and his younger sister is turned into one. Driven by a mix of grief and determination, he joins an organization dedicated to exterminating demons and seeks a way to revert his sister back to her human form. Throughout his perilous quest, he encounters various allies and adversaries, mastering swordsmanship and harnessing unique breathing techniques to battle the demon threat and unravel the mysteries surrounding their origin and his family's tragedy.

    The 10104th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Monstress Vol. 1: Awakening by Marjorie Liu

    In a war-torn world where humans and magical creatures coexist, a young girl named Maika struggles to control the monstrous power within her. Haunted by her past and driven by vengeance, she embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth about her mother's death. Along the way, she allies with a talking cat and encounters a secret society of powerful witches. With stunning artwork and a gripping storyline, this dark and immersive graphic novel explores themes of identity, trauma, and the price of power.

    The 10112th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download