The Greatest Comics & Graphic Novels and Nonfiction 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 398 '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.
Genres
"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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Reading Statistics
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1. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
The Story of a Childhood
This graphic novel is a memoir that provides a personal account of the author's childhood and young adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic revolution. The story portrays the impact of war, political upheaval, and religious extremism on ordinary people, while also exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Despite the harsh realities the protagonist faces, the narrative also includes moments of humor and warmth, providing a nuanced view of life in Iran during this tumultuous period.
The 386th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Maus by Art Spiegelman
A Survivor's Tale
This graphic novel tells the story of a Holocaust survivor, as narrated by his son. The unique use of animals to represent different nationalities and ethnic groups adds a distinctive layer to the narrative. The protagonist's father recounts his experiences as a Polish Jew during World War II, offering a poignant depiction of the horrors of the Holocaust. The narrative also explores the complex father-son relationship, revealing the impact of such traumatic historical events on subsequent generations.
The 606th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Fun Home by Alison Bechdel
A Family Tragicomic
The graphic memoir revolves around the author's childhood and youth in rural Pennsylvania, United States, in the backdrop of a dysfunctional family. The story particularly focuses on her complex relationship with her closeted gay father, who was an English teacher, a funeral home director, and a historic home restorer. The narrative is non-linear, exploring themes of sexuality, gender roles, suicide, emotional abuse, and the role of literature in understanding oneself and one's family.
The 809th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. March by John Lewis
Book One
"March: Book One" is a graphic novel that depicts the early life of a key figure in the American civil rights movement. Raised in rural Alabama, he grows up inspired by the activism surrounding the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the words of Martin Luther King Jr., which sets him on the path of nonviolent protest. The novel highlights his commitment to the fight for equal rights and his journey from a young boy on a farm to one of the key figures in the civil rights movement.
The 3424th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Persepolis Two by Marjane Satrapi
The Story of a Return
This graphic novel continues the story of a young girl growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. After being sent to Europe for her safety, she struggles with feeling out of place and longs for her homeland. Eventually, she returns to Iran, only to find it vastly different from the place she remembered. The book explores themes of identity, culture, and the effects of political upheaval on a personal level.
The 4061st Greatest Book of All Time -
6. 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 4115th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. The Best We Could Do by Thi Bui
An Illustrated Memoir
This illustrated memoir captures the story of a Vietnamese family who fled to America after the fall of South Vietnam in the 1970s. The narrative traces their journey and struggles as refugees, while also delving into the family's complex history and relationships. The author uses her own experiences as a new mother to explore themes of parenthood, identity, and the enduring effects of displacement and trauma.
The 5314th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. Other Russias by Victoria Lomasko
The Graphic Reportage of Victoria Lomasko
"Other Russias" is a powerful and thought-provoking graphic novel that offers an intimate and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of marginalized individuals and communities in contemporary Russia. Through her stunning illustrations and poignant interviews, Victoria Lomasko sheds light on the struggles, hopes, and resilience of diverse groups such as LGBTQ+ activists, migrant workers, political dissidents, and the forgotten voices of rural communities. This eye-opening book challenges stereotypes and provides a humanizing portrayal of those who are often overlooked or silenced in Russian society.
The 5998th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast
A Memoir
"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 6996th Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Hyperbole And A Half by Allie Brosh
Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened
"Hyperbole And A Half" is a humorous and deeply personal memoir that combines witty anecdotes and colorful illustrations to explore the author's experiences with mental health, childhood, and adulthood. Through a series of hilarious and relatable stories, the book offers a unique perspective on life's challenges and the power of humor in navigating them.
The 7231st Greatest Book of All Time -
11. Becoming Unbecoming by Una
This graphic novel is a poignant exploration of gender violence, identity, and the journey of healing. It intertwines the author's personal narrative of growing up in the 1970s in Northern England with the historical backdrop of the Yorkshire Ripper, a notorious serial killer targeting women. As the author grapples with her own experiences of sexual abuse and societal pressures, the book delves into themes of misogyny, shame, and the societal tendency to blame victims rather than perpetrators. Through powerful illustrations and candid prose, it offers a deeply personal account of the struggle to overcome trauma and the cultural silence surrounding sexual violence.
The 7379th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. Smile by Raina Telgemeier
"Smile" is a heartfelt graphic novel memoir that follows the life of Raina, a sixth-grade girl who experiences a life-changing accident when she injures her two front teeth. Through a series of dental surgeries and awkward encounters, Raina navigates the ups and downs of middle school, friendship, and self-discovery. With her signature humor and relatable storytelling, Raina's journey of finding her own voice and embracing her imperfections is both inspiring and empowering.
The 7639th Greatest Book of All Time -
13. Hip Hop Family Tree by Ed Piskor
The History of Hip Hop
This graphic novel chronicles the origins and evolution of hip hop culture, exploring its roots in the Bronx during the 1970s. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, the book delves into the lives of influential figures like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Afrika Bambaataa, showcasing their contributions to the genre and their impact on music, art, and fashion. With meticulous attention to detail, "Hip Hop Family Tree" offers a captivating and comprehensive look at the birth of a cultural phenomenon.
The 8027th Greatest Book of All Time -
14. Safe Area by Joe Sacco
Goražde: The War in Eastern Bosnia 1992-1995
"Safe Area: Gorazde" is a graphic novel that provides a harrowing and deeply personal account of the Bosnian War, focusing on the experiences of the inhabitants of Goražde, a Bosnian enclave that was declared a UN "safe area" during the conflict. Through a blend of journalism and art, the book portrays the daily struggles, horrors, and resilience of the people who lived through the siege, as well as the complexities of the war. The author's immersive storytelling and detailed illustrations bring to light the human cost of war, the failures of international intervention, and the enduring spirit of those who survived amidst the chaos and violence of the early 1990s.
The 8657th Greatest Book of All Time -
15. Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud
The Invisible Art
"Understanding Comics" is a comprehensive exploration of the comic book medium, its history, vocabulary, and the intricate ways it communicates through a unique combination of words and pictures. The book delves into the definition of comics, the various elements that make up the comic style, and the complex interplay between text and imagery in conveying stories and emotions. Using a comic book format to discuss its subject matter, the book also examines broader topics such as the psychology behind why humans are drawn to this form of storytelling and how comics fit into the broader spectrum of art and culture.
The 9336th Greatest Book of All Time -
16. Lighter Than My Shadow by Katie Green
This graphic memoir is a powerful and deeply personal exploration of a young woman's struggle with eating disorders and trauma. Through evocative hand-drawn illustrations, it chronicles her journey from early signs of anorexia in childhood, through years of battle with her inner demons, to eventual recovery. The narrative delves into the complexities of mental health, the impact of abuse, and the resilience of the human spirit. The author's raw honesty and the visual storytelling create an engaging and poignant tale that brings to light the silent suffering of those dealing with similar issues, offering hope and understanding to others on their path to healing.
The 10372nd Greatest Book of All Time -
17. Palestine by Joe Sacco
In the Gaza Strip
The book is a graphic novel that combines the artistry of comics with the in-depth reporting of investigative journalism to explore the complexities of life in the West Bank and Gaza Strip during the early 1990s. Through a series of personal interviews, the author vividly portrays the daily struggles and enduring spirit of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation. The narrative weaves together historical context, cultural insights, and the poignant stories of individuals, offering a nuanced and humanizing perspective on a conflict often reduced to political talking points. The graphic novel's stark black-and-white illustrations serve to amplify the emotional impact of the testimonies and the harsh realities of the Palestinian experience.
The 12473rd Greatest Book of All Time -
18. Wall And Piece by Banksy
This book is a visual compilation that showcases the provocative and iconic work of a renowned and anonymous street artist. It features a collection of photographs documenting the artist's graffiti and installations, which often combine dark humor with underlying political messages and social commentary. The book captures the artist's anti-establishitarian ethos and his journey from the streets of Bristol to the walls of cities around the world, challenging viewers to reconsider the boundaries of art and the power of public space as a medium for expression and engagement. Through its pages, readers are invited to delve into the controversial and thought-provoking world of a figure who has redefined the way we understand street art and its potential for impact.
The 12473rd 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