If you’re looking to curl up with unique and inspiring books during the upcoming semester break, look no further than this list of six graphic novels compiled by instructional designer Kristen Yunis in partnership with librarian Allyson Mower.
“Akira”
Written in the 80s and set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo in the year 2019, “Akira” influenced the work of many other manga artists to follow. The library has this six-volume series in both its original language, Japanese, and in an English translation.
“Frizzy”
A coming-of-age story of a young girl’s journey in embracing her naturally curly hair.
“Maus”
Author and cartoonist Art Spiegelman traces his father's imprisonment in a Nazi concentration camp through a series of cartoons. An incredible book, “Maus” often makes it onto banned lists for depictions of human-animal portrayal, violence and torture.
“Shiver: Selected Stories”
A collection of short stories from horror manga artist, Junji Itō. Do note that these are quite gruesome as it is part of the "body horror" subgenre. Junji Itō can be considered the Edgar Allen Poe of Manga. The stories are absolutely spine-chilling, and the library has many books authored by Itō.
“Bloom”
The story of Ari, a gay high-school graduate who falls in love while grappling with the conflict between his dream of moving to the city and the expectation that he stays in his hometown to support his family’s business.
“Persepolis”
An autobiographical coming-of-age story set during the Iranian revolution. The illustrations are endearing and engaging and do so much for the storytelling. This title also frequently gets challenged and banned for discussion of sex, violence, torture and use of inappropriate language.
