Cute Graphic Novels to Get in the Autumnal Spirit!

 

Reviewed by Christy

            I love middle grade graphic novels. They’re the perfect antidote to a reading slump or if you’re just in the mood for something light. To celebrate the upcoming season, here are some recent ones I have loved. So let’s pretend it’s crisp outside and not 80 degrees!

Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen

            A lonely witch creates some vegetable friends to help her tend her garden. (Don’t worry, only some of the food is sentient. The ones who go into soups are definitely not!) But when a vampire moves into the creepy castle on the hill, everyone, including the witch, is frightened by the possibilities. Naturally, someone volunteers Garlic to protect them and kill the vampire. Timid Garlic feels she can do nothing right, and she certainly can’t fight a vampire! But with the encouragement of her best friend Carrot maybe she can surprise even herself.

            This one is so sweet and the art and coloring just evokes autumn. It’s also a perfect spooky book for kids because it’s really not too spooky at all. There is a sequel called Garlic and the Witch that I’m very excited to pick up.

Crabapple Trouble by Kaeti Vandorn

            Callaway is a little apple girl who lives in a village with other fruits and veggies. Her friends are getting ready for the harvest festival where everyone can show off their special recipes. This makes Callaway very anxious. When Callaway gets too anxious, her little apple head starts to vibrate, then POPS off. This is very troublesome, indeed. Luckily, a fairy named Thistle is here to help Callaway calm her nerves and maybe discover not everyone has to be in the spotlight to be successful.

            Vandorn’s art is so whimsical it’s hard not to love it. I also appreciate the book’s messages: it’s normal to have anxiety. And it’s ok if you’re good at something different than what your friends are good at.

Forever Home by Jenna Ayoub

Willow is an army brat. The longest she has stayed in one place is about two years. But her parents have just purchased the old Hadleigh House, and they have promised her they are going to finally put down roots. Unfortunately, Willow discovers that her new home is haunted by the two elderly Hadleigh sisters, a young World War I soldier, and a weeping lady in white. (Also, a demon in the back bedroom but honestly, just pay her no mind.) Willow is determined to stay put in her new home though, and nothing is going to stop her.

This book was utterly delightful. Is there a stronger word for “charming”? Because it’s that. The art is gorgeous, and I laughed out loud several times.

 

I enjoyed these books so much that I think I will buy each one of them because they are so re-readable. I highly recommend them if you need more cuteness in your life!