The Review Board is currently inactive.

Among the books listed here are (mostly) graphic novels selected by our first-ever, ad hoc Review Board for a Valentine's Day catalog published around 1995 by Diamond Comics. Instead of quotes from reviewers, those books have a line of description.

Recommended books the current list may be comic books (c), collections (col), or graphic novels (gn) of any length. The titles added to the list are determined by a majority of the 5 reviewers' reviews. In some cases, the reviewers may find the art, writing, production, etc. well done. However, there may be a pro or con reason only stated to the Reviewer Board for listing/not listing it. Some books are annotated as especially for kids (kid), for mature audiences (mature), or for all ages (all).

The most recently added titles are rated on a five-point scale in the areas of writing, art, production, appeal to female readers, appeal to non-comics readers, and maturity of subject matter. Books rated as especially appealing to female readers have non-stereotyped and/or strong female characters. Books with appeal for non-comics readers may tell stories that are complete in a single issue and will generally not use extremely cutting-edge storytelling techniques or rely on "insider" comics knowledge. Maturity ratings are slightly different: a 1 in this category means "only interesting to kids," a 5 means "adults only," and 3 means "may interest both adults and kids." Please remember that all number or point determinations are a collective decision of the five reviewers. The new list will be full of meatier reviews of each book, and not so much based on a point scale.

How Do I Get My Book on the List?

If you are a publisher or creator and would like your comic book reviewed, you can send us two copies of a comic book, or two copies of a graphic novel.

The Review Board is supported in part by a grant from the B & E Collins Foundation.

How Do I Get a Recommended Book?

You can order most books through your local retailer, but smaller publishers linked here may sell copies directly through their websites, and many collections and graphic novels are available through online comics retailers and booksellers.

To find the comic book store nearest you, call 1-888-COMIC-BOOK, or use Diamond Comics' Comic Shop Locator Service (for shops in the United States and Canada), or visit The Master List, which includes "reviews" of some shops as well as locations in the U.S., Canada, and internationally.

Other places to find good comics:

• The Eisner Awards and the Ignatz Awards are archived at ComicSutra.
  
  
• The Harvey Awards
  
  
• Aardy DeVarque maintains a Comic Book Awards Almanac that includes not only the Eisners, Harveys and Ignatz awards but also several poll awards and mailing list awards.
  
  
• For 2002, the Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults Committee, sponsored by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) of the American Library Association (ALA), recommended 25 titles in the Graphic Novels: Superheroes and Beyond category. (Some of the titles were published before 2002, but all are currently available.)
  
  
• Artbomb has reviews of good graphic novels. It's far from exhaustive but the reviews are entertaining as well as informative.
  
  
• Comics Worth Reading, review site by Lulu member Johanna Draper Carlson
  
  
• Sequential Tart, the monthly review and interview webzine by (and often about) women in comics. The Tarts also have downloadable lists of their ten current favorite comics in a variety of genres here.

Survival of the...Fittest?

Many titles on this list are no longer published. Only you can prevent some of the best work in comics from languishing in obscurity! Tell your friends, and your favorite retailer, about titles you like! Buy extra copies to give as gifts, and encourage your retailer to stock a few extras for new readers to try. Contact publishers and creators for copies of older books, and support their future work.

Special thanks to Audry Taylor for assistance with the Manga descriptions.
Humor/Fun Books | Especially for Kids | Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror | Mysteries, Action and Thrillers | Westerns | Romance | Manga | Superheroes | Anthologies | Everyday Stories/Fiction | Biography and Autobiography | Nonfiction and Historical Fiction | Books that Defy Categorization | Adapted from Other Media | About Comics | Gone but Not Forgotten

Humor/Fun Books

101 Female Uses For Pink Duct Tape by Jessica Anderson, Jolene Hudson and Kelly Frankenberg (Beaver's Pond Press)

Archie Americana Series: Best Of The '50s (Archie Comics)

Archie Americana Series: Best Of The '60s (Archie Comics)

Archie: Love Showdown (Archie Comics)

The Cowboy Wally Show by Kyle Baker (Marlowe): A satire of TV fame, in which the offensive Cowby Wally becomes a big success.

Cute-Girl at the Comic-Con, minicomic by Matt Feazell (Not Available Comics): "Matt does more with stick figures than most people do with full anatomy."

Elvira, Mistress of the Dark by Richard Howell, Kurt Busiek, Paul Dini, and various artists (Claypool): "Elvira wisecracks her way through wacky misadventures"; "For teen and up vampire fans; good humor-never mean-spirited or even sexist." (col)

Fun with Milk And Cheese by Evan Dorkin (Slave Labor Graphics): Two abusive dairy products get into trouble. Intermittently published.

Hate by Peter Bagge (Fantagraphics): The hilarious travails of slacker Buddy Bradley, his crazy girlfriend, and his friends and family. Six collections collecting 30 single issues (many still available), plus other material.

Hopster's Tracks by Stephanie Gladden (Bongo): "Fun art, packed with details." "Took everyday bureaucratic problems and made them funny." Writing 4.5, art 4.6, production 4.6, appeal to female readers 4, appeal to non-comics readers 3.6, maturity 3.1 (c)

Naughty Bits by Roberta Gregory (Fantagraphics): The hilarious life of Bitchy Bitch. Sometimes you laugh, sometimes you wince. Ongoing series and four collections.

Odd Adventure Zine by Ian and Todd Smith (Zamboni Press): "Engagingly presents the adventures of Moe, Investigator of the Odd, and his nutty friends"; "enjoyable wackiness."

Opposite Forces by Tom Bancroft (Funny Pages Press): Writing 4.4, art 4.5, maturity 3.3.

The Collected Sam & Max: Surfin' the Highway by Steve Purcell (Marlowe): Silly dog and rabbit think they're crime fighters. Became a TV cartoon and video games. Book is hard to find.

The Adventures of Bagboy and Checkout Girl by John Lafleur and Marc Baker (Acetylene Comics): Writing 3.75, art 3.62, maturity 2.16.

Smith Brown Jones by Jon "Bean" Hastings (Kiwi Studios/Slave Labor): Adventures of an alien accountant on Earth. (c, col)

Tick Omnibus (several volumes) by Ben Edlund (New England Comics): The original, on which the TV show was based.

Too Much Coffee Man by Shannon Wheeler (Adhesive) Originally a comic book, now a magazine with articles as well as comics.

Unshelved by Gene Ambaum and Bill Barnes (Overdue Media) Writing 4.25, art 3.875, production 4, appeal to female readers 4.25, appeal to non-comics readers 3.75, maturity 3.25.

Why I Hate Saturn by Kyle Baker (DC Comics): Journalist Anne has enough problems before her crazy sister comes to live with her. Comedy and romance. (gn)

Wolff & Byrd: Counselors of the Macabre collections by Batton Lash (Exhibit A Press): Pun-filled humor where two crack lawyers meet the Wolfman, vampires, and other denizens of the night. (continuing series and collections)

You Are Here by Kyle Baker (DC Comics): Can city boy Noel and nature girl Helen live happily ever after? Not unless Noel comes clean about his past. (gn)

Especially for Kids

Akiko by Mark Crilley (Sirius): The adventures of a personable 10-year-old girl on the planet Smoo. (col) and (c)

Amelia Rules! by Jimmy Gownley (Renaissance Press): "A little girl is the star, but her mother and cool aunt are adult characters easy for many women to relate to." "Captivating art." "Enjoyable, fast moving and fun." Reminded two reviewers of Peanuts at its best. Writing 4.75, art 4.6, production 4.75, appeal to female readers 4.75, appeal to non-comics readers 4.5, maturity 2.25

B-36 by Pam Bliss (Paradise Valley Comics): Those Kids!, Radiation Man, and others.

Felix B&W, by Don Oriolo and Robert Wetterauw (Felix Comics): "a great book for kids-fun, with all kind of stories and games"; "should appeal to beginning manga readers as well as classic comic fans."

Leave It to Chance: Shaman's Rain and Trick or Treat by James Robinson and Paul Smith (Homage/DC): Each volume collects four issues. Fourteen-year-old Chance Falconer follows in her father's footsteps, pursuing paranormal investigations, whether he approves or not. New issues, collections, and then an annual album of new material upcoming from Image Comics.

Lisa Comics #1 (Bongo): Adventures of Lisa Simpson.

Patrick Rabbit, by Phil Yeh (Cartoonists Across America): "Phil's work is delightful-he is doing comics for kids that appeal to adults"; "positive, upbeat, and moralistic, and truly entertaining."

Pakkin's Land by Gary and Rhoda Shipman (Caliber): A boy finds himself lost in Pakkin's Land, inhabited only by talking animals. Compared to the work of L. Frank Baum and C.S. Lewis. (c and col)

Patty Cake and Friends by Scott Roberts (Caliber/Tapestry/Slave Labor): Humorous trials and tribulations of a seven-year-old, including a new babysitter and a strange dog. Now published by Slave Labor Graphics.

The Phantom Airship by Pam Bliss (Paradise Valley Comics): A time traveler visits Professor Petrov's farm.

Simpsons Comics (Bongo): The comic book adventures of America's favorite dysfunctional family. Look for the Lisa comic as well.

Winged Tiger, by Phil Yeh (Cartoonists Across America): "If only we could get every kid to read this and Patrick Rabbit, they'd be hooked on comics"; "downright inspirational"; "the best comic in this batch."

Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror

A Distant Soil (The Gathering, The Ascendent, The Aria) by Colleen Doran (Aria Press): Lengthy story of a teenage brother and sister who grew up on Earth but whose alien origins and mental powers put them in the middle of interstellar intrigue and a revolt against a corrupt alien government. Beautiful art and continuing plot twists. (c, col)

Amy Unbounded, by Rachel Hartman (self-published minicomic): "Those who like Castle Waiting should find this medieval-based story of a girl, her interesting family, and her weird friends a good read"; "High appeal for female readers of all ages"; "very sweet." A square-bound volume collecting issues 7-12 (a complete story) is available. Rachel Hartman received Friends of Lulu's Kim Yale Award for Best New Talent in 2000.

Astounding Space Thrills, by Steve Conley (Image): "A retro sci-fi pulp with a cleancut hero in tricky situations - professionally crafted in art and story"; "tremendous book with appeal to both males and females!" (c) and daily online strip

Bearskin by Gareth Hinds (TheComic.Com): Xeric-winning graphic novel adaptation of a Grimm Brothers story.

Bone by Jeff Smith (Cartoon Books): Humorous fantasy with an "everyman" hero, for all ages. (ongoing series and multiple collections)

Books Of Magic by Neil Gaiman et al. and by John Ney Rieber et al. (DC/Vertigo): Before there was Harry Potter, another boy learned he was a wizard. Ongoing series now written by Dylan Horrocks. Past issues are collected in The Books of Magic, The Books of Magic: Bindings, The Books of Magic: Summonings, The Books of Magic: Transformation, The Books of Magic: Reckonings.

Boudicca's Shield by Ruth Tait (Self-published): Writing 4.7, art 4.3, production 3.6, appeal to female readers 4.7, appeal to non-comics readers 4.2, maturity 4.3.

Camelot 3000 by Mike Barr and Brian Bolland (DC): Arthur and his knights are awakened or reincarnated and face an alien invasion.

Castle Waiting: The Curse Of Brambly Hedge by Linda Medley (OLIO): Fairy tale settings with humor and well-rounded characters. The listed book is a re-telling of Sleeping Beauty; the ongoing series follows original characters. Visit Comics Worth Reading for a lengthy review.

The Compleat Moonshadow by J.M. DeMatteis and Jon Muth (DC): Collects the serialized coming-of-age story of a boy who is the son of a human woman and an alien. Beautifully painted art.

Concrete trade paperbacks by Paul Chadwick (Dark Horse): Fragile Creature, Killer Smile, Think Like a Mountain, Strange Armor, and other collections. An ordinary man becomes an alien creature who still lives in our ordinary world - and who still has human interests and desires. Visit Guido Weisshahn's index for a complete comicography for Paul Chadwick.

Deadbeats: New in Town by Richard Howell and Ricardo Villagren (Claypool): "A vampire soap opera that offers up mystery and romance and some surprisingly nasty horror; the characters and the complex plot make this a worthy read." (col)

Death: The High Cost Of Living by Neil Gaiman and Chris Bachalo (DC): Standalone story, a spinoff from the very popular Sandman series.

Decoy: Storm of the Century by Buddy Scalara and Courtney Huddleston (Penny Farthing Press): "Story is fun, not childish, and not always easy but well told. It should be good for the 8+ crowd."

Decoy: Stranded by Michelle Nichols and Courtney Huddleston (Penny Farthing Press)

Desert Peach: Tongue, by Donna Barr (A Fine Line): "Donna tackles real problems in post-War Germany in the lives of her very-dimensional characters; dense but rewarding"; "now that Donna is self-publishing this long-running title, it's even better than ever"; "unique subject matter, intriguing story"; "witty and moving."

Electric Girl by Mike Brennan (Mighty Gremlin): Humorous adventures of Virginia and the gremlin who gave her the Power of Electricity. "Always clever and fun. . . lots of interesting female characters." "The kind of book Friends of Lulu is here to help everyone appreciate." All ages, self-contained stories. Writing 4.3, art 4.3, production 4.9, appeal to female readers 4.6, appeal to non-comics readers 4.2, maturity 2.5. (c and col)

Elfquest collections and graphic novels by Richard and Wendy Pini (Warp Graphics): Exquisite art and solid characters and stories have drawn a wide following since this fantasy series first appeared in the early 1980s.

Eternal Romance, by Janet Hetherington (Best Destiny): Romance meets gothic horror. "Wonderful book for bringing in non-comic book reading females." (gn)

Finder by Carla Speed McNeil (Lightspeed Press): "Science fiction/fantasy tale that focuses on interesting characters"; "great art, good humor, excellent book for readers of both sexes." Carla Speed McNeil received the Kim Yale Award for Best New Talent in 1998. (c) and (col)

Future Fantastic (Fink Inc.): Two short stories, including a science fiction story "more about character than science." Strong female characters, some mature themes. Writing 3.9, art 3.4, production 4.4, appeal to female readers 3.4, appeal to non-comics readers 2.7, maturity 3.7. (c)

Forty Winks by Vince Sneed and Levi Krause (Peregrine Entertainment): "Sweet story." Three-dimensional female characters. Art reminiscent of Sergio Aragones. Some scary content so not for younger kids. Writing 3.8, art 3.9, production 3.8, appeal to female readers 3.9, appeal to non-comics readers 3.2, maturity 2.6. (c)

Galaxion, by Tara Jenkins (Helikon Comics); "space saga features likable and diverse characters"

Gelding: Reasons to Live by Phil Smith and Von Phantasi (Fighting Lion Comics) Writing 3.9, art 4, production 4.1, appeal to women 2.7, non-comics readers 3, maturity 3.7

Girl Genius by Phil Foglio and Brian Snoddy (Studio Foglio): (Issue 1 reviewed) "So far, she seems more of a victim than genius, but I can see it building to something." "A lot happening . . . great supporting material." Some mean characters; not for younger children. Writing 3.8, art 4.1, production 4.2, appeal to female readers 3.5, appeal to non-comics readers 3.6, maturity 3. (c)

Give Me Liberty by Frank Miller and Dave Gibbons (Dark Horse): Collects the Eisner-winning mini-series about Martha Washington, a girl from the ghetto who saves the world.

Go Girl! Trade Paperback by Anne Timmons (Dark Horse): Writing:4.50, Art-4.33, Production-4.50, Appeal to Female Readers-4.67, Appeal to Non Comics Readers-2.67, Maturity of subject-2.83æ Fun simple stories, some violence but mostly g-rated, good for pre-teens through adult.

Havoc Inc. by Mark Barnard and Terrie Smith (Radio Comix): Anthropomorphic science fiction.

Heartbreakers by Anina Bennett and Paul Guinan (Dark Horse/Image): "This space opera series featuring sexy clones is for adult readers who enjoy sf."

Li'l Red Stitch by Leslie Nichols and Courtney Huddleston (Summertime Comics): Writing-4.75, Art-4.75, Production-4.88, Appeal to Female Readers-4.50, Appeal to Non-Comics Readers-3.50, maturity-2.50 "This book is breathtaking in parts, wonderfully illustrated and different in so many good ways."

Martha Washington Goes to War by Frank Miller and Dave Gibbons (Dark Horse): More adventures of the African-American heroine in a dystopian future.

Meridian: Going to Ground by Barbara Kesel and Various (Crossgen) Writing 4.125, art 4.25, production 4.575, appeal to women 4.25, non-comics readers 3.95, maturity 2.625

Minstrel Fair, by Elaine Oldham (Dreamlight Graphics): "Captivating fantasy storytelling."

Outworld by Ruth Tait (Talking Pictures): Writing 3, art 3, maturity 3.83.

Penny Century by Jaime Hernandez (Fantagraphics): "For adult readers only, but a must for all Love and Rockets fans."

Poison Elves: Requiem For An Elf by Drew Hayes (Sirius)

Quicken Forbidden, by Dave Roman and John Green (Cryptic Press); "Beautifully drawn all-ages story combining technology and fantasy with a likable teenage girl protagonist" (c)

Roswell, Little Green Man by Bill Morrison (Bongo): "Clean and colorful animation-style art enhances this humorous comic about a cute little alien."

Sandman collections by Neil Gaiman et al. (DC): Beautifully told stories of the master of dreams, with many strong female characters in this mix of fantasy, mythology, history and horror. A total of 75 issues appeared, which have been collected in ten volumes.

Scary Godmother by Jill Thompson (Sirius): "Both the hardcover Halloween book and the Bloody Valentine 48-page comic are fun reading for readers of all ages." ." Multiple storybooks and comics are available. Lulu Award winner.

Sojourn by Ron Marz and Greg Land (Crossgen) Writing 3.8, art 3.6, production 4.5, appeal to women 3.6, non-comics readers 2.9, maturity 3.4

Soulsearchers & Company: On the Case by Peter David, Amanda Conner, and Jim Mooney (Claypool): "This collection about an eclectic band of ghostbusters benefits from crisp writing and fine art." (col)

Soulwind by C. Scott Morse (Image/Oni): "Morse's distinctive brush work adds visual emotion to this eerie tale of magic and mystery." The book is named for a magical sword, but the Eisner-nominated series has science fiction elements as well.

Starchild (Awakenings, Crossroads, and three Essential Starchild collections) by James Owen (Coppervale): Slowly paced fantasy about a complex group of brothers, sons and odder relations. (col)

Strange Attractors by Mark Sherman and Michael Cohen (Retrographix): Retro science fiction adventures of Sophie, curator of the Museum of Lost Things, and her robot sidekick.

Strangehaven by Gary Spencer Millidge (Abiogenesis): "This 'Twin Peaks in England' series is weird and wonderfully executed-a pleasure to look at and to read"; "mature situations well handled; likely to appeal to fans of Hepcats, Love & Rockets, and Strangers in Paradise." (gn)

Swamp Thing: Love And Death by Alan Moore, Steve Bissette, John Totleben and Shawn McManus (DC). Well-written, beautifully drawn story of a nature elemental, set in the DC Universe.

V For Vendetta by Alan Moore and David Lloyd (DC): A masked man in an alternate future England fights against totalitarianism and government mind control.

Vamps by Elaine Lee and William Simpson (DC): Somewhat campy exploits of five vampire biker chicks.

Veena by Eric Theriault (Eric Theriault Press): Semi-anthology with a strong recurring female main character and compelling stories. "Beautiful art ... excellent use of blacks." "Interesting, different, perhaps a little dangerous." Writing 4, art 4.5, production 4.25, appeal to female readers 3.75, appeal to non-comics readers 3.5, maturity 4.4

The Victorian: Self-Realization by Len Wein, Claude St. Aubin and Mostafa Moussa (Penny Farthing Press)

Vogelein by Jane Irwin and Jeff Berndt (Fiery Studios): Issue 2 of 5.

Wandering Star by Teri S. Wood (Pen & Ink): Cassandra, the first human admitted to the Galactic Academy, finds herself in the middle first of anti-human prejudice, and then an interstellar war. Three collected volumes. Some individual issues are available at the author's website at no charge and will soon all be collected on an inexpensive CD.

Witch Girls by Malcolm Harris and Karen Kajenbrink (Manga Graphix): Writing 3.87, art 3.75, maturity 2.75.

Xeno's Arrow, by Greg Beettam and Stephen Geigen-Miller (Cup O'Tea Studio/Radio Comix): "Thoughtful science fiction with sympathetic lead character"; "Clever writing and pleasing art."

Mysteries, Action and Thrillers

Baker Street graphic novels by Guy Davis (Caliber): Punk rock meets Victorian London. Baker Street: Children of the Night is out of print, but Honor Among Punks is available from the publisher.

The Crow by James O'Barr (various): The story of a man seeking to avenge his murdered fiancee became two movies and myriad comic books and collections.

From Hell by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell (Eddie Campbell Comics): The true story of Jack the Ripper, a gritty evocation of Victorian London, with extensive end notes on sources and mysteries. Also a movie starring Johnny Depp.

Hard Looks by Andrew Vachss (Dark Horse): Short stories by the attorney and horror writer adapted to the graphic novel format.

Jack's Luck Runs Out, by Jason Little (Beekeeper): "Drawn in the art style and colors of a deck of playing cards; Jack is a compulsive gambler and alcoholic, who rises above it only to be double-crossed by the woman who's honor he's trying to protect"; "definitely for adults-great use of design and premise"; "doing noir-type material in such vibrant colors is outlandish-but it works!" (short gn)

Kabuki by David Mack (Image): Mysterious and beautiful Japanese secret agents.

Kane by Paul Grist (Dancing Elephant): Four collections and individual comics follow a police detective trying to fight both crime and corruption in his department. Occasionally surreal.

Leopold and Brink by C. Allan Fink (Faultline Press): "This strange team of an libidinous female monkey/human and her android (?) companion takes an offbeat but interesting approach to the comics medium in a standard magazine format"; "bright, mature readers will like this book." Published 1997-98.

Mystery Play by Grant Morrison and Jon Muth (DC): A detective investigates a murder in a small town. A complex story with multiple layers of meaning and outstanding, moody art.

Nemesister by Laura Behary and Craig Clark (Cheeky Press): "For older readers, Babette Buster is interesting in that she is a gutsy private eye; the first storyline deals with a teenage runaway lured into the sex trade"; "the art could use some work but the story is interesting."

Omaha the Cat Dancer (three vols.) by Reed Waller and Kate Worley (Kitchen Sink): Adults-only soap opera features funny animals and explicit sex. First volume is out of print.

Poppie's Adventures: Serpents in Paradise by Julie Yeh and Jack Hsu (Way out Comics): Writing-3.75, Art- 4.25,Production-4.00, Appeal to Female Readers-4.25, Appeal to Non-Comics Readers-2.75, maturity-2.75 Excellent story and great art.

Ranger Ralph by Steve Oerding (Oerding Illustrated): "Clever Fun." Issues 1-3.

Robyn of Sherwood by Paul Storrie and Michael Larson (Caliber): "In a new twist on an old legend, the daughter of Robin Hood takes up the mantle of her famous father"; "Despite uneven artwork, you can't do much better in terms of strong and complex female characters against an interesting backdrop." Four-issue mini-series still available as single issues from the publisher.

Ruse by Mark Waid and Bruce Guice (Crossgen) Writing 4.6, art 4.5, production 4.6, appeal to women 3.7, non-comics reader 3.2, maturity 3.2

She's A Nightmare by Jesse Chen (Highaims Comix): "Compelling with bits of humor and very clear." Writing 3.2, art 3.5, production 4.2, appeal to female readers 3.6, appeal to non-comics readers 3.5, maturity 3.7. Graphic novel.

Shi: The Way Of The Warrior, Vols. 1-2 and Shi: Senryaku (Crusade): Exploits of an Asian woman, professional by day, crime fighter by night.

Sonambulo, by Rafael Navarro (9th Circle Studios): "Gritty tale of a private dick in a wrestling mask-kind of film noir meets Santeria"; "nothing but a good time-great humor, edge-of-your-seat action, intriguing story."

Strangers In Paradise collections by Terry Moore (Abstract Studios): ". . . involving, touchy, funny, dramatic, and unpredictable adventures of Katchoo, Francine and David, three friends whose lives are often more than what they seem." says Kurt Buseik, creator of Astro City.

Stray Bullets collections (5 volumes) by David Lapham (El Capitan): Guns, girls, trailer trash, and the adventures of Amy Racecar. If Quentin Tarantino wrote and drew comics, this might be the result. Five hardcover volumes collect the ongoing series; also look for the crime (graphic) novel Murder Me Dead.

Tomb Raider Journeys #8 by Fiona Kay Avery and Mun Kao Tan (Top Cow)

Usagi Yojimbo by Stan Sakai: The original samurai rabbit. Don't let the "funny animal" style fool you; the stories faithfully illustrate Japanese culture and the samurai code. (c, multiple collections)

Whiteout by Greg Rucka and Steve Lieber (Oni Press): Murder in Antarctica, investigated by a tough female cop.

Witchblade Obakemono by Fiona Avery and Billy Tan (Top Cow): Writing-4.67, Art-4.33, Production-4.67, Appeal to Female Readers-3.33, Appeal to Non-Comics Readers-2.67, maturity-3.67 Recommended for more mature readers.

Westerns

The Kents by John Ostrander and Tom Mandrake (DC Comics): "A current rarity in comics: a well-done western."

Mutant Texas by Paul Dini and J. Bone (Oni Press) Writing 4.6, art 4.6, production 4.4, appeal to female readers 4.1, non-comics readers: 3.8, maturity 2.6

Romance

Teen Romance Stories, by Don Oriolo and various (Oriolo/Global Comics): "A perfect book for preteen girls and younger teens-will thrill an 11-year-old girl with dreams of teenhood": "cartoony and fun"; "adorable."

Manga

What's Michael by Makoto Kobayashi (Dark Horse): "These humorous short tales of kitty Michael and his various owners will captivate cat fanciers young and old-delightful!" Also look for What's Michael in the Super Manga Blast anthology.

Call Me Princess by Tomoko Taniguchi (CPM Manga): Starry-eyed romance in the shoujo vein, "a simple story developed well." "As a ten-year-old girl, I would have loved this book." Reminded one reviewer of the movie Shrek. Writing 3.6, art 3.5, production 4.3, appeal to female readers 3.7, appeal to non-comics readers 3.1, maturity 2.4.

Confessions of a Teenage Vampire by Terry West and Steve Ellis (Scholastic): "Digest-sized graphic novels that are a mix of Sweet Valley High and Dark Shadows with art filtered through Gen 13"; "aimed at a junior high audience-should appeal to Buffy fans."

Cathedral Child by Lea Hernandez (Image, tpb): "Love, adventure, metaphysics, drama, sacrifice, and a wedding-this digest-sized graphic novel lovingly illustrated in manga style has it all"; "Refreshingly different."

Ghost In The Shell by Masmune Shirow (Dark Horse)

Gon by Massashi Tanaka (Paradox Press)

Inu Yasha by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz)): In a mix of fantasy and horror, a typical high school girl finds herself in ancient Japan, where her destiny is intertwined with a hostile, ill-tempered, and adorable demon boy.

Lum: Urusei Yatsura by Rumiko Takahashi(Viz): Teenager Ataru can't keep his eyes - or hands - off women. This brings him interplanetary complications when he is challenged to a duel by a beautiful alien invader. Rumiko Takahashi's first, and perhaps best known, humor series. The Perfect Collection collects the best of the series; eight graphic novels also available.

Mai The Psychic Girl: Perfect Collection by Koiko/Ikagami (Viz)

Maison Ikkoku graphic novels by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz)

Mermaid Forest by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz)

Mermaid's Gaze by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz)

Nausicaa of the Valley of Wind Perfect Collection by Hayao Miyazaki (Viz)): A dark fantasy based on mythology and steeped in Japanese symbolism, this is the manga version of the hit Japanese film. A visual feast with a strong female lead. The Perfect Collection, four books, is an abridged version of the full series.

One-Pound Gospel (Viz)

Ranma 1/2 by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz): Rumiko strikes again in this humorous, romantic series about a youthful Japanese martial artist whose dunking in a cursed spring means he spends half his time as a buxomy femme fatale.

Rumic Theater Presents by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz)

Rumic World Trilogy by Rumiko Takahashi (Viz)

Rumiko Takahashi's Rumic Theater (Viz)

What's Michael by Makoto Kobayashi (Dark Horse)

Superheroes

All Star Archives (DC): Seven volumes published.

Astro City collections (Life in the Big City, Confession, Family Album and Tarnished Angel) by Kurt Busiek and Brent Anderson (Image): Stories that follow some of the most three-dimensional superhero characters around, and the ordinary people who share the city with them.

Batman Adventures: Mad Love by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm (DC)

Batman: Gotham By Gaslight (DC)

Big Bang Comics (Image): Anthology of retro superhero tales.

Black Orchid by Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean (DC): An ecological fantasy thriller set in the DC universe.

Forty Winks: Buzzboy by Vince Sneed and John Gallagher (Peregrine Entertainment): "I love Buzzboy! . . . A good, light read." "Good for a chuckle." "Clever gimmicks and great characters." "Not the traditional superhero stuff." Reminded one reviewer of Alan Moore's First American. Unanimously recommended. Available as an online comic. Writing 4.2, art 4.5, production 4.75, appeal to female readers 3.8, appeal to non-comics readers 3.2, maturity 2.7. (c)

Gen13 by Choi/Lee/Campbell/Garner (Image)

Ghost: Nocturnes by Eric Luke/Adam Hughes et al. (Dark Horse)

GoGirl! by Trina Robbins and Anne Timmons (Image): "The women are able, strong, cute and sympathetic - women should like it - girls and teens even more." "Smart dialog, good stories, beautiful art." Winner of the 2001 Lulu of the Year award, and artist Anne Timmons won Kim Yale award for best new talent. Writing 4.8, art 4.5, production 5, appeal to female readers 4.8, appeal to non-comics readers 3.6, maturity 2.4. (c)

Golden Age Greats Vol 2: Phantom Lady (AC Comics)

Golden Age Greats Vol 6: Fighting Females (AC Comics)

Golden Age Greats Vol 8: Fighting Females Strike Back (AC Comics)

John Byrne's Next Men, Books 1-5 (Dark Horse)

Justice League Of America Archives (DC)

Legion Of Super-Heroes Archives (DC)

Lois & Clark: New Adventures of Superman (DC)

Madman Adventures Collected by Mike Allred (Oni Press/AAA Pop)

Nexus: Books I and II by Mike Baron and Steve Rude (Dark Horse)

Sandman Mystery Theatre: Tarantula by Matt Wagner and Guy Davis (DC): Collects the first four issues of Sandman Mystery Theater, with the origin of crime fighter and millionaire scientist Wesley Dodds. Not the same Sandman as written by Neil Gaiman.

The Spectre by John Ostrander and Mandrake (DC)

Starman by James Robinson and Tony Harris (DC): The son of an aging superhero reluctantly takes over the family business.

Supergirl by Peter David and Leonard Kirk (DC)

*Superman Adventures by various (DC)

Wonder Woman: The Once and Future Story by Trina Robbins and Colleen Doran (DC)

Anthologies

Best of Drawn & Quarterly, Chris Oliveros, ed. Cutting edge comics collected from the anthology. (col)

The Girly Comic by Various (Factor Fiction Press) Writing 3.3, art 3.8, production 3.6, appeal to women 3.7, non-comics readers 3.2, maturity 3.2

Twisted Sisters 2: Drawing The Line, Diane Noomin, ed. (Kitchen Sink): Cutting edge works by women.

Everyday Stories/Fiction

32 Stories by Adrian Tomine (Drawn & Quarterly): Collection of stories that previously appeared in the zine Optic Nerve. Tomine's work has been compared to Raymond Carver.

Alternator, by Carrie Golus (Goelch Publications): "A personal, quirky collection of short pieces that should appeal to an older high school or a college crowd"; "Funny, ironic, and insightful"; "real and from the heart." (c)

Another Chance to Get It Right by Andrew Vacchs (Dark Horse): Beautifully told vignettes about childhood.

Arm's Length by Mark Price (Third Wind Press): "A great character study - of characters we hope we are not and will not become." A Xeric winner with strong writing and layout that tells a self-contained story. Writing 4, art 3.6, production 4.3, appeal to female readers 3, appeal to non-comics readers 3.6, maturity 3.8. (c)

Artbabe by Jessica Abel (Fantagraphics): "An artistic, witty, and charming treatment of a young woman's coming of age-definitely for older readers"; "highly recommended." Jessica Abel received the Kim Yale Award for Best New Talent in 1997. (c) and (col)

At the Seams by Ed Brubaker (Alternative Press): Story of a love triangle, told from the perspective of each person involved. (short gn)

BoHos by Maggie Whorf and Byron Penaranda (Image): Exploits of four rebellious teenagers, written by a teenager. Three-issue mini-series.

Evenfall by Pete Stathis (SLG Publishing): "Does not depend heavily on previous issues, so it is easy to understand; Unsuitable for young readers." Writing 3.4, art 3.8, production 3.6, appeal to female readers 3.6, maturity 4.6.

Fade from Blue by Myatt Murphy and Scott Dalrymple (Second 2 Some Studios) Writing 4.15, art 4.3, production 3.6, appeal to women 4.1, non-comics readers 3.5, maturity 4.3 (adult)

Jar Of Fools by Jason Lutes (Drawn & Quarterly): A sad magician, his estranged girlfriend, his aging mentor, a grifter and his daughter all come together in an exploration of the importance of family and how we live with our pasts.

Keyhole by Josh Neufeld, Dean Haspiel, and Linda Perkins (Millennium): "This anthology comic offers a variety of features, including Billy Dogma, Mrs. Banks, and Waiting-a nice blend of fantasy and 'true-life' comics"; "Funny and often poignant storytelling"; "A pleasant surprise."

Mr Punch by Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean (DC): Childhood memories interwoven with the classic symbols of the Punch & Judy show. The combination of one of the best comics writers and one of the best and most innovative comics artists can't go wrong.

Nowhere by Debbie Drechsler (Drawn & Quarterly): Five issues, still available, tell the story of a teenage girl trying to make friends and figure herself out, set in 1967.

Palooka-Ville by Seth (Drawn & Quarterly): Early issues are memoir, collected in It's a Good Life if You Don't Weaken. More recent issues tell the story of two brothers who sold electric fans in the 1950s. Clyde Fans Part One collection available. Critically lauded, Seth focuses on the small details of life.

Silly Daddy by Joe Chiapetta (Joe Chiapetta); "book with a lot of heart"; "the production is flimsy, but boy can this guy tell a story" (c)

Steven's Comics, booklet by David Kelly (Yell! Comics); "poignant vignettes about a boy's realization that he's gay," in a style reminiscent of Lynda Barry. Visit Beek's Books for a longer review.

The System by Peter Kuper (DC): A wordless exploration of New York and the intertwined lives of its diverse residents. (gn)

The Tale Of One Bad Rat by Bryan Talbot (Dark Horse): How a runaway girl trying to live with a legacy of abuse finds herself again. (collection of the serialized story)

Violent Cases by Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean (Kitchen Sink): The first collaboration between Gaiman and McKean, a reflection on childhood memory and imagination.

The Visit by Ruth Tait (Self-published): Writing 4.7, art 4.3, maturity 4.

WJHC, by Jane Smith Fisher and Kirsten Petersen (Wilson Place): "Very well drawn and produced teen tale of a group of kids setting up a high school radio station-highly recommended for teen girls"; "well crafted and contemporary to the times." (c)

XXX Live Nude Girls by Nikki Coffman and Lauren McCubbin (Penny Dreadful Press): Writing 4.25, art 3.75, maturity 4.5.

Biography and Autobiography

A Child's Life and Other Stories by Phoebe Gloeckner (Frog, Ltd.): Personal, often disturbing stories of growing up. Mature readers. (gn)

The Amazing "True" Story of a Teenage Single Mom, by Katherine Arnoldi (Hyperion): "An inspiring graphic novel chronicling one teenager's pursuit of her goal of a college education despite being a single mom, the victim of abuse, and rejected by her family. Ask for it in regular bookstores." (gn)

Cuckoo by Madison Clell (Green Door Studios): "A disturbing, fragmented, poetic, and intensely personal journey into dissociative identity disorder"; "unique, if unpolished, and daring, if disconcerting material, and the medium is richer for such experimentation"; "proof that a book doesn't have to be highly professional to be recommended-it's an important subject but not suitable for younger readers." (c)

Daddy's Girl by Debbie Drechsler (Fantagraphics): A powerful book about sexual abuse that gets into the mind of the adolescent girl protagonist. (gn)

Hearts of Africa: Trials by Cindy Goff and Nieves (Slave Labor Graphics): Second collection about a Peace Corps volunteer in Africa. (col)

Life of the Party by Mary Fleener (Fantagraphics): Short stories, autobiographical and otherwise. (col)

Love That Bunch by Aline Cominsky-Crumb (Fantagraphics): Neurotic autobiographical comics collection.

Marilyn: The Story of a Woman by Kathryn Hyatt (7 Stories Press): Biography of Marilyn Monroe. (gn)

Our Cancer Year by Harvey Pekar and Joyce Brabner (Four Walls Eight Windows): An intimate look at how the well-known comics writer and his wife survive his bout with cancer.

Stuck Rubber Baby by Howard Cruse (Paradox Press): A personal story of growing up in the Civil Rights-era South, with the added complication of being gay.

Nonfiction and Historical Fiction

The Age of Bronze, by Eric Shanower (Image): "Simple, straightforward storytelling with great art explores the myths associated with the fall of Troy." (c) and (col)

Berlin: City of Stones by Jason Lutes (Drawn & Quarterly): Interconnected stories of residents of the fabled city during the Weimar era (1929), as Communists and National Socialists clash. The first of a projected three volumes. (gn)

Big Book series from Paradox Press (Big Book of Urban Legends, Big Book of Weirdos, etc.): Thematic collections of short comics stories with a wide variety of writers and artists in each volume. With their combination of humor, true (and possibly true) stories, and bite-sized stories, the Big Books are ideal for the non-comics reader.

Billie Holliday by Jose Munoz and Carlos Sampayo (Fantagraphics): A biography of the well-known jazz singer. (short gn)

The Desert Peach by Donna Barr (Mu Press/A Fine Line): Often amusing stories of Rommel's gay younger brother and the misfits under his command, trying to survive World War II. Amusing characters and situations but with often serious and accurate treatment of war. Ongoing single issues and (so far) six collections.

The works of Will Eisner (Dropsy Avenue, A Contract With God, New York, To the Heart of the Storm, Last Day in Vietnam, etc.): Memoir and other stories from one of the comics world's most consummate storytellers.

Fax from Sarajevo by Joe Kubert (Dark Horse): Ervin Rustemagic was trapped in Sarajevo with his family when bombs started to fly. The faxes he sent, his only means of communication with the outside world, were the jumping off point of this multiple-award-winning book.

Maus by Art Spiegelman (Raw Books): The Pulitzer-winning story of the author's father's experiences during the Holocaust.

Palestine by Joe Sacco (Fantagraphics): One point of view of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. The author's comics reporting has appeared in Time Magazine.

Two-Fisted Science by Jim Ottavianni and others (GTL): "Quirky, fascinating short stories of scientists and their discoveries-a unique work that effectively blends comics, biography, history, and science": "Top notch, compelling-great stuff!"

Books that Defy Categorization

Acme Novelty Library by Chris Ware (Fantagraphics): Winner of many industry awards. Painstakingly designed and drawn tales of melancholy.

Beanworld collections by Larry Marder (Beanworld Press): A weird and wonderful world with its own interior logic. Entertaining for all ages. This link will take you to a fan page that includes an introduction to the Beanworld and contact and purchase information for Beanworld Press.

The Dream Project by Kelli Nelson (Self-published) Writing 3.8, art 3.5, production 3.6, appeal to women 2.8, non-comics readers 2.9, maturity 3.4

Joyride by Carol Lay (Kitchen Sink): Both a collection of Lay's Story Minute strips, a compendium of the ironic, thoughtful and odd, and a short graphic novel with science fiction elements. Out of print. (col/gn)

Land of Nod by Jay Stephens (Black Eye/Dark Horse): Strips set in an intense dream world. Collected in Land of Nod Treasury (Oni Press).

Lift Your Leg My Fish Is Dead by Julie Doucet (Drawn & Quarterly): A collection of twisted personal stories in a raw style. Mature content. (col)

Love & Rockets by Gilbert and Jaime Hernandez (Fantagraphics): Stories about the young people of Hoppers, a Mexican neighborhood somewhere in California, centered around best friends Maggie and Hopey, by Jaime, and magical realism about the residents of the town of Palomar by Gilbert. Multiple award winning, with complex, interesting characters, especially female. Fifteen collections. (col)

Adapted from Other Media

Stan Shaw's Beauty and the Beast (Dark Horse): A modern re-telling of the classic story.

The Book of Ballads and Sagas by Charles Vess (Green Man Press): Illustrated classic ballads, with commentary and other text by authors including Neil Gaiman, Jane Yolen and Charles DeLint. Four issues and a trade paperback collection.

The Clowns, by P. Craig Russell, Marc Andreyko, and Galen Showman (Dark Horse): "This adaptation of Pagliacci is tops in all areas — an interesting and unusual tale told well." (c)

Fairy Tales Of Oscar Wilde, Vols. 1 and 2 by P. Craig Russell (NBM)

The Jungle Book by P. Craig Russell (NBM): "Beautiful Russell art adapting the Kipling classic."

Paul Auster's City Of Glass by Karasek/Mazzucchelli (Avon)

Oz books by Eric Shanower (Dark Horse)

Star Wars graphic novels (Dark Horse)

X-Files by Stefan Petrucha, Charles Adlard and Miran Kim (Topps)): Two graphic novels collect stories from a comic book series based on the hit TV show.

About Comics

A Century of Women Cartoonists by Trina Robbins

Comics and Sequential Art by Will Eisner (Poorhouse Press): The first book about what comics are, by a master of the form.

From Girls to Grrlz: A History of Women's Comics from Teens to Zines by Trina Robbins. Lulu of the Year award winner in 2000.

The Great Women Superheroes by Trina Robbins

The Staros Report by Chris Staros (Star House, available from Top Shelf): Published in 1996 and 1997, a compendium of reviews and criticism of those years' cutting edge comics.

Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud (DC/HarperPerennial): A comic book about how comics work. Multiple award winner, used in classrooms and translated into multiple languages.