Graphic novels have enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity in the last five years. Since 2019, sales of graphic novels have risen over 100 percent. While that growth has leveled off, graphic novels are now the third best-selling genre (35 million books sold) in the U.S. and Canada, behind only general fiction (49 million) and romance (36 million).

What’s fueled this spike in popularity? Teenagers who flocked to graphic novels have now grown into adults who have stuck with the format, albeit with more sophisticated themes. In fact, the average age of a graphic novel reader is now 35, according to gitnux.org . And, while male readers still outnumber female readers, women now comprise almost 40 percent of graphic novel readers.

In addition to the visual appeal of graphic novels, the format has come to encompass a variety of genres, styles, and subject matter, from memoirs and historical fiction to fantasy and science fiction, romantasy and horror. Kern Carter on writersaresuperstars.substack.com writes, “Graphic novels are not just superhero stories. They’re whatever story you want to tell.”

And they are exploring these subjects—and even superhero stories—with more complex narratives and nuanced emotions that broaden their appeal to a more mature audience.

“Romantasy is a really hot category this year. We’ve seen that growth in the graphic novels market as well,” reports Katie Sainz, Oni Press’ director of sales, book market. “I think that romance has always had a place in graphic novels, although it’s not traditionally what you think of in superhero comics.”

Ben Abernathey executive editor at Skybound Comics agrees, saying “Fans love the romantic side. Those elements add emotion and humanity [to a story].”

Readers will also discover spine-chilling horror in this year’s graphic novels. New titles feature a vampire with empty nest syndrome, a psychedelic cult, and boys gone bad. Storm King Comics’ founder and nonpareil horror expert Sandy King affirms that readers can find love in spooky places: “Romance in horror stories? Yes, but usually one of the partners gets killed.”

Oni Press

Oni Press releases over 60 original books and graphic novel collections annually, while staying active in comic shops with single-issue launches. Oni is enjoying steady growth with graphic novels based on popular web-comics and video games. This year, Oni’s blockbuster Scott Pilgrim franchise celebrates its 20th anniversary. “We’re gearing up for a lot of big things on that front,” says Katie Sainz, director of sales, book market. “It's been exciting to see all of those old fans come back, and new fans discover Scott Pilgrim.”

SubZero Vol. 1 created by Junepurrr, September 2024, ISBN 9781637154434, collects 25 episodes of the fan favorite web-comic in print for the first time. In this romantasy, the last remaining heir of the Cerulean Dragon clan marries her greatest enemy. Princess Clove hides a dangerous secret while resisting a surprise attraction to her betrothed. “This creator-owned property has nearly 400 million reads on the web and a 9.76-out-of-10-star rating,” says Sainz. “We're seeing the original fans express such excitement to finally have a physical copy to share and cherish.”

A Quick & Easy Guide to Coming Out by Kristin Russo, illustrated by Ravi Teixiera, September 2024, ISBN 9781637155066, offers helpful advice and supportive resources for people who are queer, trans, questioning, or anything in between. This guide explores the full range of LGBTQIA+ coming-out journeys and provides tips for individuals revealing their true selves. “This is an evergreen primer for insight and guidance about how to come out: the fears, the joys, the nuances that go along with it, and how to build a queer community of support around you,” explains Sainz.

Rap legend Ol’ Dirty Bastard guides readers through a New York City sci-fi multiverse in ODB: Oddities, Discord, & B-Sides—Lyrical Ruckus in the City by Ike Reed, David Gorden, Jason Pierre, Troy-Jeffrey Allen, Regine Sawyer, and Chris Robinson; illustrated by David Brame, Dojo Gubser, Maan House, Felipe Sobreiro, Chris Gooding, and Mike JC; November 2024, ISBN 9781620108390. Following a cataclysmic event, New York City splinters into moments from the past, present, and future. “It was very important to us and the creators to honor the true spirit of Ol’ Dirty Bastard in this graphic novel anthology,” says Sainz. “His family is looking forward to seeing this new representation of ODB come to life.”

A sacrificial lamb makes a life-saving deal with an imprisoned deity in Cult of the Lamb: The First Verse by Alex Paknadel, illustrations by Troy Little, colors by Nick Filardi, letters by Crank!, December 2024, ISBN 9781637155226. This first-ever graphic novel adaptation explores the universe of the multiple BAFTA Award-nominated video game. “This game has a huge online following and an almost rabid fan base,” says Sainz. “It's got this delightfully heretical, adorably demonic vibe going on—like Animal Crossing took a dark turn.”

Four queer college students learn painful lessons of the heart in How Could You created by Ren Strapp, December 2024, ISBN 9781637155264. Yona and Olene find new romance and adventure during their semester abroad in France. Back on campus, their exes go to parties in search of rebound girlfriends. “I’m so excited about this original graphic novel from a debut creator,” says Sainz. “There's a beautifully, intricately woven history between the main characters that makes it such compelling reading.”

Skybound Comics

Established in 2010, Skybound Entertainment is a multi-platform company led by Robert Kirkman, creator of The Walking Dead and Invincible . Skybound Comics publishes approximately 150 titles annually, covering genres like action, dystopian fantasy, humor, horror, sci-fi, and superheroes.

Last year, Skybound launched the Energon Universe based on three Hasbro properties linked by interconnected storylines: Transformers, G.I. Joe , and Void Rivals. “The Energon Universe is driven by the passion and knowledge of Robert Kirkman, who is the true showrunner of the line,” says Executive Editor Ben Abernathy. “The stories are a ground-up reboot requiring no deep knowledge of the lore. It's very new-reader friendly.”

Two enemies from warring civilizations are stranded on an asteroid in Void Rivals Volume 2: Hunted Across the Wasteland by Robert Kirkman, illustrated by Lorenzo De Felici, September 2024, ISBN 9781534328372. Forced to depend on each other to survive, the two adversaries—the pilot and the warrior—realize their cultures are more similar and connected than they knew. “Their rulers are hiding secrets and keeping their people at war to distract from what's really going on,” says Abernathy. “This science fiction fantasy is about loyalty, courage, friendship, and doing the right thing in a difficult situation.”

Optimus Prime fights to save Earth from horrific destruction in Transformers Volume 2: Transport to Oblivion by Daniel Warren Johnson, illustrated by Mike Spicer, November 2024, ISBN 9781534345270. Megatron plans to bring Cybertron into orbit then strip-mine Earth’s resources. “This is a reimagining of the millennia-old war between the heroic Autobots and the villainous Decepticons,” explains Abernathy. “Daniel Warren Johnson grounded this Eisner-nominated series in the characters’ humanity and emotions. We've worked hard to transcend giant robots just punching each other.”

On Earth, Optimus Prime meets G.I. Joe, a specially trained elite military force. Shana H. O’Hara, G.I. Joe’s superspy and fierce female fighter, stars in Scarlett Volume 1: Special Mission by Kelly Thompson, illustrated by Marco Ferrari, November 2024, ISBN 9781534329553. Agent O’Hara (aka Scarlett) goes undercover to infiltrate Japan’s Arashikage ninja clan. While rescuing her best friend, Scarlett discovers that the Arashikage have a shocking weapon of mass destruction. “It's a very high-octane espionage book about how far you're willing to go for the ones you love,” says Abernathy. “I was a huge fan of G.I. Joe as a kid, and now, with Scarlett, I have something my 14-year-old daughter can read and love.”

A terrorist group strives for world domination in Destro Volume 1: The Enemy by Dan Watters, illustrated by Andrei Bressen, December 2024, ISBN 9781534357686. James McCullen (aka Destro XXIV) runs M.A.R.S. Industries, Earth’s leading high-tech weapons designer and manufacturer. Destro goes to war with a rival military contractor—all under the close watch of Cobra Commander. “Fans of villain-centric series like Loki will really enjoy this book,” notes Abernathy. “Destro #1 is the best-selling G.I. Joe comic book in over two decades and the best-selling solo character launch in the franchise’s 60-year history.”

Creep Show Volume 3 by Chip Zdarsky and James Stokoe, illustrated by Kagan McLoed, September 2024, ISBN 9781534385924, is Skybound’s Eisner-nominated horror anthology inspired by Greg Nicotero's hit television series of the same name. “We’re bringing more unique characters and compelling stores from a ‘Murder’s Row’ of best-selling and emerging creative talent,” says Abernathy. “This one is definitely for mature readers.”

Fox Chapel Publishing

In 1991, Alan Giagnocavo founded Fox Chapel Publishing after relocating to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania from Canada. Initially, the company published cookbooks and magazines about woodcarving and scroll saw woodworking. The publisher later expanded its list to include topics like crafting, quilting, sewing, gardening, adult DIY, and coloring books for adults. “Fox Chapel skyrocketed during the adult coloring book boom in 2015–16,” says President and COO Dave Miller. “For a while, we were the number one publisher of adult coloring books in Canada and in the top three in the U.S.”

Now, Fox Chapel is venturing into children’s graphic novels—from a unique source. Fox Chapel initially developed Kayomi Harai’s Ninja Kitties artwork for coloring books and activity books with storylines. Buoyed by positive feedback, Fox Chapel moved forward with a series of graphic novels based on the coloring books. “The stories address social and emotional issues that parents and kids are working on,” says Miller. “Kayomi’s vision was always to go bigger with these stories because she wants her Ninja Kitties to help kids.”

Written for kids ages 6–8, “Ninja Kitties” follows the adventures of seven royal kitties—each with a different ninja power. Each book features a fun, engaging story combined with important SEL messages about self-belief, teamwork, kindness, empathy, and perseverance.

Mia rescues the other six kitties from a fire in Ninja Kitties Save the Castle: Mia Never Gives Up! created by Kayomi Harai, August 2023, ISBN 9781641243032. Mia loses her patience as she struggles to control her special water powers. Grandma Tabby encourages Mia to keep trying when suddenly a fire breaks out. “Grandma Tabby is the wise matriarch who teaches the kitties their ninja skills. On the last page of each book, she imparts an important life lesson,” explains Miller. “We all need a Grandma Tabby in our life sometimes.”

Ninja Kitties Kitlandia is in Danger!: Bee-Bee Believes in His Inner Strength created by Kayomi Harai, September 2023, ISBN 9781641243018, focuses on Bee-Bee, who thinks his siblings have cooler super powers than he does. Then, when the dastardly Fang Gang attacks the nearby dam, Bee-Bee’s honey-spraying ability saves Kitlandia. “Bee-Bee is the Ninja Kitty who’s always joking around,” says Miller. “But he doubts himself and sometimes forgets he’s a very special kitty, too.”

Drago’s temper gets him into trouble in Ninja Kitties Fried Eggs and the Red Gem: Drago Discovers the Importance of Teamwork created by Kayomi Harai, August 2023, ISBN 9781641243025. Drago ditches his siblings and unwisely attempts to rescue Farmer Fluff on his own. “Grandma Tabby gives Drago advice about how to control his temper,” says Miller. “At the end of the story, he's extremely appreciative and understands that he too needs help from time to time.”

Ninja Kitties Trouble at the Bridge: Zumi Learns the Power of Listening created by Kayomi Harai, August 2023, ISBN 9781641243001, shows the Ninja Kitties preparing the castle for a visit from the King and Queen of Piglandia. Problems arise when Zumi stops listening to her siblings and tries to control everything herself. Will the Ninja Kitties save the Emerald Bridge in time? “Grandma Tabby helps Zumi understand the importance of listening to others and teamwork,” Miller says.

“As kids and parents are navigating today’s complicated and nuanced landscape in their journey through childhood, ‘Ninja Kitties’ is the perfect stage for teaching valuable life lessons,” says Ninja Kitties Brand Advisor Sujata Luther.

Yen Press

More people than ever are reading manga and graphic novels, according to Yen Press’ Sales and Marketing Director Mark de Vera. “Our sales in 2021–2022 hit a ridiculous level that seemed almost exaggerated,” explains de Vera. “Sales have calmed down, but leveled off at numbers I never would have dreamed possible in the 2010s.”

While teen readers still make up the core of the manga audience, more mature titles are gaining popularity now, like She Likes Gays, But Not Me, Vol. 1 , original story by Naoto Asahara, translated by Leighann Harvey, art by Akira Hirahara, May 2024, ISBN 9781975380021.

Jun Andou hides his sexuality and his secret affair with a closeted adult man. While exploring his gay identity, Jun desperately wishes for a heteronormative future with a wife and children. This adaptation of a well-known Japanese novel portrays complex scenes with visuals intended for an adult reader.

“This is a dramatic take on being a closeted gay boy in Japan, which is not too different from being a closeted gay boy anywhere else in the world,” says de Vera. “We see serious, realistic experiences through Jun’s eyes.”

Major mermaid drama unfolds miles under the waves in A Sinner of the Deep Sea, Vol. 1 , created by Akihito Tomi, translated by Caleb Cook, June 2024, ISBN 9781975390860. Mermaid authorities imprison celebrity dancer Ryuu for breaking the gravest of laws. Ryuu fell in love with a human and exposed mermaid civilization to danger. Ryuu’s best friend, Jo, is on a mission to save her jailed pal. Will the mer-police catch Jo before she finds Ryuu’s two-legged love? “In addition to an epic tale, this series beautifully depicts the fantasy mermaid world with sexy, slice-of-life elements,” says de Vera.

Storm King Comics

Hollywood producer and writer Sandy King founded Storm King Comics in 2012. Along with her husband, director John Carpenter, King assembles elite talent to bring their special brand of horror and sci-fi to graphic novels. “I spent two years researching the art and the business of doing [print] before we launched our first comic,” explains founder and publisher King. “I haul in writers from movies, theater, and comics—anywhere I find good writing. If they've never written a comic, I'll team them up with artists because it's a 50-50 medium.”

A Gen-X coming-of-age story takes a dark turn in The Killing Hole by Steve Niles, illustrated by Trevor Denham and Ryan Winn, July 2024, ISBN 9798988728511. In an isolated community in northern Virginia, lonely and neglected teenager, Stewart, notices the new kid in town, Peter. The two form a powerful bond around their mutual hatred of everything and everyone, especially the worst of the bullies, a local drug dealer. “At the end of the day, they're not good kids. This is not inspirational,” King notes dryly.

The God List by Steve Niles, illustrated by Scott Hampton and Jennifer Lange, July 2024, ISBN 9798988728528, is a standalone caper featuring William, a Greenwich Village bookdealer, and Lydia, an otherworldly secret agent. William and Lydia fight to save the God List, an inventory of masterpieces created by geniuses of the world. Scholars disagree on whether or not the List exists, so William and Lydia consult the world’s leading expert on the subject. “They travel to Europe to defend and protect what some believe to be the cradle of human creativity,” says King.

A quincentagenarian vampire stalks residents of Western Massachusetts in Blood of the Taken created by Sian Mandrake, October 2024, ISBN 9798988728535. The elderly vampire finds the perfect human pair to replace her lost brood. Each passing night plunges the two best friends deeper into a putrefying, hellish nightmare. “Our fears are more existential as we age,” notes King. “When we say a title is for older people, it's not because there's sex and violence. It's because it's dealing with fears about things like aging or the afterlife.”

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