Graphic Novels for Struggling Readers

A main goal of mine is to get kids to love reading. For the struggling reader, just getting started on a book can be half the battle. Here are some resources to help ensure all kids, especially the struggling reader, are getting what they need.

Graphic Novels

I have always found huge amounts of success behind graphic novels. http://dyslexia.yale.edu/resources/tools-technology/suggested-reading/graphic-novels/
Below you will find some of my favorite fiction and non fiction books.

The One and Only Ivan
Winner of the Newbery Medal and a #1 New York Times bestseller!
This unforgettable novel from renowned author Katherine Applegate celebrates the transformative power of unexpected friendship. Inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla known as Ivan, this illustrated book is told from the point of view of Ivan himself. This paperback edition includes an author's note highlighting the differences between the fictional story and true events, a version of the author's Newbery Medal acceptance speech, Ivan's "signature," discussion questions, and more.
Buy on Amazon amzn.to/2iw2Eh7

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The Lightening Thief (Graphic Novel Version)
From School Library Journal:
“Riordan’s highly popular “Olympians” series (Hyperion/Disney) is now a graphic novel. Half-Blood Percy Jackson is the son of a mortal mother and the Greek god Poseidon, which explains why he has always felt out of place among his schoolmates. After learning of his paternity, he is charged with the dangerous mission of locating his Uncle Zeus’s missing lightning bolt and returning this symbol of power to its rightful owner. Expert editing keeps the salient parts of the story intact while showcasing the additional storytelling capabilities that the graphic format allows. Excellent panel layout makes the story line easy to follow. The use of angled panels in highly dramatic action scenes is particularly effective. As readers follow Percy’s adventures, they are also keenly aware of his personal struggles, as facial expressions help readers to relate to this boy “who doesn’t fit in.” Illustrations brilliantly illuminate the story, portraying seamless world-blending, from typical school drama and well-known U.S. landmarks to mythological elements. A man seated in one panel casually stands to reveal his true identity as a centaur, the eerie woman seated in the attic is an Oracle, and the Nereid of the undersea kingdom seems a natural part of Percy’s world. This blend of mythology and magic with realistic action and adventure brings an added dimension and delightful nuances to this adaptation of the well-known novel. Both ardent followers of Riordan’s books and those new to the series will not be disappointed.”
Buy on Amazon http://amzn.to/2CAMXN9

Fangbone Series
Perfect for fans of Captian Underpants
From the publisher:“Eastwood Elementary has a new student, and he’s nothing like the other kids in 3G. Fangbone is a barbarian warrior from another world! And he’s been charged with the task of keeping a deadly weapon from Skullbania’s vilest villain, Venomous Drool.”
Buy on Amazon ​http://amzn.to/2CylMmf

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Graphic History
These are some more kid tested and loved graphic non-fiction novels. My class loves these and again, I highly recommend them!

​Buy on Amazonhttp://amzn.to/2kHMj9u

Graphic Novels by Liam O'Donnel
Non-fiction graphic novels to the rescue! These are some of my classroom's favorites. I highly recommend them.
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About the author
"Liam O'Donnell is the award-winning creator of over 35 books for young readers, including the "Max Finder Mystery" and "Graphic Guide Adventures" series of graphic novels. Recently, Liam tapped into his love of monsters and Minecraft to create two new series: "Tank & Fizz", troll-infested mysteries for younger readers and "Battle of the Blocks", fast-paced adventures for middle grade Minecraft fans."
 
Buy on Amazon ​http://amzn.to/2AYlcxu

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What graphic novels have you tried in the classroom? Share below!