Tillie Walden, author of On a Sunbeam, recommends a few graphic novels that highlight just how powerful and evocative the medium can be.

With the popularity of superhero movies, it’s easy to think of comics as being only about individuals in capes and tights trying to save the universe.

However, it’s important to remember that graphic novels are a medium, not a genre — which means there are tons of fantastic graphic novels out there for you to explore that don’t include space aliens or attacking monsters or time travel of any sort.

In fact, some of the best graphic novels in recent years haven’t been about superheroes at all, but instead have been a way for talented authors and artists to tell personal stories, journeys of self-discovery and explore everyday life.

So, whether you’ve never picked up a graphic novel or haven’t picked one up lately that doesn’t include capes, here are a few from author Tillie Walden that should definitely be part of your Reading Without Walls celebration.

About ‘On a Sunbeam’ by Tillie Walden

Throughout the deepest reaches of space, a crew rebuilds beautiful and broken-down structures, painstakingly putting the past together. As Mia, the newest member, gets to know her team, the story flashes back to her pivotal year in boarding school, where she fell in love with a mysterious new student. When Mia grows close to her new friends, she reveals her true purpose for joining their ship—to track down her long-lost love.

An inventive world, a breathtaking love story, and stunning art come together in this new work.

On a Sunbeam will be out October 2, 2018. Pre-order it now on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or from your local indie bookstore!

Tillie Walden’s Graphic Novel Recommendations

‘Pashmina’ by Nidhi Chanani

Summary: In this heartwarming graphic novel debut, Nidhi Chanani weaves a tale about the hardship and self-discovery that is born from juggling two cultures and two worlds

This is a gorgeously illustrated graphic novel for anyone who enjoys tales about self discovery. This book is Nidhi’s debut, but the story feels so universal and accessible that it feels like its been around forever.

‘The Prince and the Dressmaker’ by Jen Wang

Summary: Prince Sebastian is looking for a bride―or rather, his parents are looking for one for him. Sebastian is too busy hiding his secret life from everyone. At night he puts on daring dresses and takes Paris by storm as the fabulous Lady Crystallia―the hottest fashion icon in the world capital of fashion!

This book is near and dear to my heart. Not only is Jen a powerhouse (check out her previous book, In Real Life, and you’ll see what I mean) but this book takes a classic fairytale and brings in questions of gender, identity, and self worth in a charming, positive way.

‘Fetch: How a Bad Dog Brought Me Home’ by Nicole Georges

Summary:From an award-winning artist, a memoir of life with a difficult, beloved dog that will resonate with anybody who has ever had a less than perfectly behaved pet.

Nicole Georges has already mastered the memoir form, but this book brings a special layer to that craft with the focus on her dog and the complicated relationship they shared. A must read for anyone who has ever loved an animal like family.

‘The Best We Could Do’ by Thi Bui

Summary: An intimate and poignant graphic novel portraying one family’s journey from war-torn Vietnam from debut author Thi Bui.

This is a stunning graphic novel that is not only enjoyable but important. It’s a memoir about Thi’s story of immigration, family, and hardship. It is a book that proves yet again how powerful the graphic novel medium can be in creating empathy and understanding.

‘As the Crow Flies’ by Melanie Gillman

Summary: Melanie Gillman’s webcomic about a queer, black teenager who finds herself stranded in a dangerous and unfamiliar place: an all-white Christian youth backpacking camp.

Melanie Gillman popular webcomic is now available in print form! This is a story that follows Charlie, a queer black teenager, as they navigate a christian summer camp. Melanie’s work is distinctive and evocative, and it is especially exciting to see her work on the printed page.

What is Reading Without Walls?

Throughout the month of April, you can participate in the Reading Without Walls challenge by doing one (or all!) of the following:

Read a book about a character who doesn’t look or live like you.
Read a book about a topic you don’t know much about.
Read a book in a format that you don’t normally read for fun.