Best Children's Biography Comics Books of 2026

Raina Telgemeier's Smile: A Graphic Novel is a heartwarming and relatable memoir about a young girl's journey through dental work and the challenges of growing up. This New York Times bestselling book is a must-read for children, particularly those struggling with self-esteem and anxiety. The author's ability to weave humor and poignant moments throughout the story makes it a joy to read. The book's unique format as a graphic novel adds another layer of engagement for young readers. Overall, Smile is a touching and inspiring story that teaches important lessons about self-acceptance and perseverance.

Sisters: A Graphic Novel by Raina Telgemeier is a heartwarming story about the complexities of sisterhood. The book follows Raina's relationship with her younger sister, Amara, and the challenges they face growing up together. Telgemeier's signature humor and charm are evident throughout the book, making it a joy to read. The illustrations are simple yet effective in conveying the emotions of the characters. Overall, Sisters is a must-read for anyone who has a sibling or has ever experienced sibling rivalry. It's a unique and relatable story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.

A special box set of Raina Telgemeier's bestselling memoirs, Smile, Sisters, and Guts, is a must-read for children and adults alike. Smile tells the true story of how Raina severely injured her two front teeth when she was in the sixth grade, and the dental drama that followed. Sisters explores the complex relationship between Raina and her younger sister, while Guts delves into Raina's struggles with anxiety. Telgemeier's charming and witty storytelling, coupled with her beautiful illustrations, make this box set a joy to read. It's no wonder Telgemeier is considered the queen of the youth-comics explosion.

The Tryout: A Graphic Novel is a captivating middle-grade gem that tells the story of Christina and Megan, two girls of color who yearn to fit in. When cheerleading tryouts are announced, they literally jump at the chance to join the squad, but will they survive the terrifying tryouts with their whole grade watching? The book is relatable and genuine, capturing every nuanced emotion of friendship, competition, and belonging. The plot alone is enough to keep young readers flipping the pages, and the attractive, expressive illustrations feature clean lines and bright colors. Overall, The Tryout is a funny, painfully honest look at a middle schooler finding her way and a standout in the children's friendship books category.

El Deafo by Cece Bell is a #1 New York Times Bestseller and a John Newbery Medal winner. It tells the story of a student with hearing loss who discovers that her hearing aid, the Phonic Ear, gives her the power to hear her teacher anywhere in the school. With this newfound ability, Cece becomes El Deafo, Listener for All. The book is a heartwarming and funny memoir in graphic novel format that will inspire and entertain children, while also providing a hero for hearing-impaired children and challenging others to empathize with those who are different. The book is a must-read for children and adults alike.

Treaties, Trenches, Mud, and Blood is a gripping graphic novel that takes readers on a journey through World War I. The book explores the reasons behind the war and the devastating impact it had on millions of lives. The author, Nathan Hale, uses his unique storytelling style to bring history to life, making it an engaging read for children and adults alike. This book is part of the Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales series, which provides a fresh take on American history. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in history or looking for an exciting and informative read.

The Alamo All-Stars (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales #6): A Texas Tale is a New York Times best-selling graphic novel series that tells the true story of the Texas Revolution and the Battle of the Alamo. The book features vivid illustrations and witty text that takes the reader on a journey from Texas's early wilderness beginnings to the Battle of the Alamo and General Sam Houston's ultimate victory over General Antonio López de Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. The book is a must-read for children interested in American history of the 1800s.

Raid of No Return (Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales #7): A World War II Tale of the Doolittle Raid is a thrilling graphic novel for kids that sheds light on the top-secret Doolittle Raid carried out during World War II. The book provides a brief yet comprehensive explanation of the events leading up to the war and recounts the bombing of Pearl Harbor from both the Japanese and American perspectives. The author's signature storytelling style and vivid illustrations make this book an exciting read for children interested in American history. Overall, this book is a fantastic addition to Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales series and is highly recommended for children who love action-packed stories from American history.

A First Time for Everything is a middle grade graphic memoir that portrays the awkward middle school years of bestselling author and Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat. The book narrates Dan's experiences during a class trip to Europe, where he faces bullying and invisibility from his classmates. However, as he travels through different countries, he discovers new experiences that change him, including his first love. The book is a relatable story of self-discovery, filled with humor and poignancy. The sincerity of Dan's transformational experience is heartening and inspiring. A great read for children and adults alike.

The "Lafayette!" book is the eighth installment in the New York Times bestselling graphic novel series, Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales. It tells the story of French nobleman and American Revolutionary War hero, the Marquis de Lafayette, who was determined to prove himself in battle. He fought alongside George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, and his loyalty saved Washington from a plot to remove him from command. Lafayette became a legend on both sides of the Atlantic and a symbol of the enduring friendship between America and France. Action-packed and thrilling, this book is a must-read for children interested in American history.