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The American Library Association’s 2025 Outstanding Comics Awards Announced

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American Library Association's Outstanding Comics Awards

The American Library Association’s (ALA) Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table (GNCRT) has announced the winners of the “Outstanding Comics Award” for 2025. The award was established in 2024 and given to exceptional graphic novels that appeal to adults, teens, and children in the categories of fiction, nonfiction, and series.

Congrats to everyone recognized!

Outstanding Comics Award for Children

Fiction

Winner

Froggy: A Pond Full of Pals! Written by Paige Walshe. Art by Paige Walshe. 2025. Flying Eye Books, $12.99 (9781838742195).

Young Froggy sets off from his home swamp to explore the great, wide world in this beautifully illustrated, witty story full of humor and heart. Around the bend, he encounters adventures, challenges, and new friends.

Honors

Fresh Start. Written by Gale Galligan. Art by Gale Galligan. Colors by K Czap. 2025. Graphix, $24.99 (9781338045864).

Thai American Ollie is used to moving for her dad’s diplomat job. After moving to Virginia she learns that they’ll be staying permanently. What does it mean for her to build real friendships and put down roots? Wide-ranging art styles highlight both Ollie’s complex emotions and her creativity. 

The Snips: A Bad Buzz Day. Written by Raúl the Third. Art by Raúl the Third. Colors by Elaine Bay. Coloring by Eleonora Bruni. Lettering by Rob Leigh. 2025. LB Ink, $14.99 (9780316528689).

Scissor City’s superhero barber team, The Snips, battle the rampaging Unruly Hairthing and solve a mysterious plague of terrible haircuts featuring the letters BBB. Spanish is seamlessly included throughout. Raúl the Third creates a vibrant universe using a unique blend of classic comic, Pop Art, and vintage cartoon styles.

Nonfiction

Winner

How to Draw a Secret. Written by Cindy Chang. Art by Cindy Chang. Colors by Cristina Rose Chua. 2025. Allida Books, $15.99 (9780358659655). 

In this autobiographical story, tween Cindy Chang travels to Taiwan with her mom and sisters for a funeral and to see her father for the first time in four years. During the trip Cindy must reimagine her definition of family when long held secrets are uncovered.  

Honors

How to say Goodbye in Cuban. Written by Daniel Miyares. Art by Daniel Miyares. 2025. Anne Schwartz Books, $21.99 (9780593568293).

In 1960s Cuba, young Carlos recounts an idyllic childhood until the tumult of Fidel Castro’s rise to power. Based on the artist/writer’s grandfather’s recollections of his childhood in Cuba and his family’s perilous migration to the United States. This book is an emotional tale about the power of family and a germane meditation on what it means to be free.

I’m a Dumbo Octopus!: A Graphic Guide to Cephalopods. Written by Anne Lambelet. Art by Anne Lambelet. 2025. Graphic Universe, $31.99 (9798765603055).

Striking, atmospheric illustrations take readers on a deep-sea tour of cephalopod life. Grimpy (Grimpoteuthis) serves as a guide as we learn what makes cephalopods so extraordinary. A standout pick for curious young readers, educators, and anyone eager to dive into the wonders of ocean science.

Series

Winner

Witches of Brooklyn v.1. Written by Sophie Escabasse. Art by Sophie Escabasse. 2020. RH Graphic, $13.99 (9780593119273).

Witches of Brooklyn v.2: What the Hex?! . Written by Sophie Escabasse. Art by Sophie Escabasse. 2021. RH Graphic, $13.99 (9780593119303).

Witches of Brooklyn v.3: S’More Magic. Written by Sophie Escabasse. Art by Sophie Escabasse. 2022. RH Graphic, $13.99 (9780593119334).

Witches of Brooklyn v.4: Spell of a Time. Written by Sophie Escabasse. Art by Sophie Escabasse. 2023. RH Graphic, $14.99 (9780593565933).

Witches of Brooklyn v.5: Curse & Reverse. Written by Sophie Escabasse. Art by Sophie Escabasse. 2025. RH Graphic, $21.99 (9780593813447).

When preteen Effie moves to Brooklyn to live with her aunts after the death of her mother, she discovers her beloved aunts are actually witches. So is she! Effie quickly adapts to a new life in which magic, mayhem, and merriment rule the day. 

Honors

Are You Afraid of the Dark? v.1: The Witch’s Wings and Other Terrifying Tales. Written by Tehlor Kay Mejia. Illustrated by Junyi Wu, Justin & Alexis Hernandez, Kaylee Rowena. Letters by Bernardo Brice. 2023. Abrams Fanfare, $24.99 (9781419763564).

Are You Afraid of the Dark? v.2: The Sinister Sisters and Other Terrifying Tales. Written by Roseanne A. Brown. Art by Shazleen Khan, Bill Masuku and Gigi Murakami. Letters by Lor Prescott with Sara Linsley. 2025. Abrams Fanfare, $24.99 (9781419763588). 

In this series spinoff of the television show Are You Afraid of the Dark?, the Midnight Society is back and inducting new members! Each volume pulls from urban legends and lore (the first book from Hispanic cultures and the second Ghanaian folktales) to craft spine-tingling tales that are both horrifying and cautionary.

Peapod Farm v.1: Stepping Stones. Written by Lucy Knisley. Art by Lucy Knisley. Colors by Whitney Cogar. 2020. RH Graphic, $12.99 (9781984896841).

Peapod Farm v.2: Apple Crush. Written by Lucy Knisley. Art by Lucy Knisley. Colors by Whitney Cogar. 2022. RH Graphic, $13.99 (9781984896889).

Peapod Farm v.3: Sugar Shack. Written by Lucy Knisley. Art by Lucy Knisley. Colors by Whitney Cogar. 2025. RH Graphic, $21.99 (9780593125502).

In this heartfelt story that arcs across three volumes, Jen must relearn what family means now that she and her mother have moved from her beloved city life to Peapod Farm with her mother’s partner Walter and his daughters, Andy and Reese. 

Outstanding Comics Award for Young Adults

Fiction

Winner

The Boy Wonder. Written by Juni Ba. Art by Juni Ba. Color by Chris O’Halloran. Lettering by Aditya Bidikar. 2025. DC Comics, $29.99 (9781799500322).

Raised as the heir to the League of Assassins, Damian Wayne struggles to fit in as one of many Robins in Gotham. When Batman leaves and a demon surfaces, Damian must join his adoptive brothers to protect the city and discover the true meaning of being a hero.

Honors

Hunger’s Bite. Written by Taylor Robin. Art by Taylor Robin. 2025. Union Square and Co., $24.99 (9781454950240).

Neeta and Emery’s futures on the SS Lark are threatened when new owner Mr. Honeycutt begins transforming the elite into monsters. Teaming up with vampire investigator Wick Farley, the friends must expose the ship’s supernatural horrors and stop a hunger for power before it consumes them all.

Hello Sunshine. Written by Keezy Young. Art by Keezy Young. 2025. Little, Brown Ink, $18.99 (9780316509473).

Heartbroken Noah, determined Sky, and guilt-ridden Izzy search for the missing Alex. Meanwhile, Alex’s twin, Jamie, is haunted by his mother’s ghost. To find his brother, Jamie must confront his family’s dark past and the supernatural secrets surrounding Alex’s disappearance before it’s too late.

Nonfiction

Winner

Raised by Ghosts. Written by Briana Loewinsohn. Art by Briana Loewinsohn. 2025. Fantagraphics, $18.99 (9798875000508).

Set in the 1990’s, Raised By Ghosts follows Briana through school isolation and neglectful parenting. Using diary entries, the story captures her search for self-worth. It is an understated tale about finding authentic connection and belonging within the quiet moments of a fraught adolescence.

Honors

Bloody Mary. Written by Kristina Gehrmann. Art by Kristina Gehrmann. Translated by I.T. Hahnenberger. Translated by E. Castle. 2025. Andrews McMeel, $22.99 (9798881600266).

This watercolor graphic novel retells Mary Tudor’s life from rejected child to England’s first queen. Using historical documents, Gehrmann portrays Mary’s religious zealotry and the profound loneliness of the crown, capturing her tragic transformation into the infamous “Bloody Mary” as she loses her grip on power.

My Perfectly Imperfect Body. Written by Debbie Tung. Art by Debbie Tung. 2025. Andrews McMeel, $18.99 (9781524890025).

Debbie Tung’s memoir chronicles her battle with disordered eating and the societal pressure to be thin. Through her signature illustrations, she details her journey toward healing and self-acceptance, reminding readers that every body is worthy of love and kindness at any size.

Series

Winner

Teen Titans: Raven. Written by Kami Garcia. Art by Gabriel Picolo. Art by Jon Sommariva. Art by Emma Kubert. Color by David Calderon. Lettering by Tom Napolitano. 2019. DC Comics, $16.99 (9781401286231). 

Teen Titans: Beast Boy. Written by Kami Garcia. Art by Gabriel Picolo. Art by Rob Haynes. Color by David Calderon. Lettering by Gabriela Downie. 2020. DC Comics, $16.99 (9781401287191).

Teen Titans: Beast Boy Loves Raven. Written by Kami Garcia. Art by Gabriel Picolo. Art by Rob Haynes. Color by David Calderon. Lettering by Gabriela Downie. 2021. DC Comics, $16.99 (9781779503862).

Teen Titans: Robin. Written by Kami Garcia. Illustrated by Gabriel Picolo. Art by Rob Haynes. Color by David Calderon. Lettering by Wes Abbott. 2023. DC Comics, $16.99 (9781779512246).

Teen Titans: Starfire. Written by Kami Garcia. Illustrated by Gabriel Picolo. Art by Rob Haynes. Color by David Calderon. Lettering by Wes Abbott. 2024. DC Comics, $16.99 (9781779517999).

Raven, Gar, Kori, and Damian navigate life-changing transformations and forgotten pasts while targeted by H.I.V.E. and Slade Wilson. These young heroes must unite, mastering their superpowers and trusting their newfound bonds to confront internal darkness and fight for their identities and freedom.

Honors

Feral Volume 1: Indoor Cats. Written by Tony Fleecs. Art by Trish Forstner. Art by Tone Rodriguez. Art by Sara Richard. Color by Brad Simpson. 2024. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534372962).

Feral Volume 2: Cat Lady. Written by Tony Fleecs. Art by Trish Forstner. Art by Tone Rodriguez. Art by Sara Richard. Color by Brad Simpson. 2025. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534328280).

Stranded in a wilderness plagued by a horrific rabies outbreak, indoor cats Elsie, Lord Fluffy Britches, and Patch must survive infected beasts and deadly traps. To return home, they must navigate terrifying settings and stay uninfected, fighting to avoid the feral madness consuming the world around them.

Tsumiki Ogami’s Not-So-Ordinary Life, Vol 1. Written by Miyu Morishita. Art by Miyu Morishita. Touch-up art and lettering by John Hunt. Translation by Mei Amaki. 2025. Viz Media, $11.99 (9781974756025).

Tsumiki Ogami’s Not-So-Ordinary Life, Vol 2. Written by Miyu Morishita. Art by Miyu Morishita. Touch-up art and lettering by John Hunt. Translation by Mei Amaki. 2025. Viz Media, $11.99 (9781974759132).

Timid Yutaka joins a supernatural high school, seeking confidence through his bond with popular werewolf Tsumiki. As he embraces her wild world and finds his footing, a figure from his past resurfaces, threatening to shatter his hard-won self-assurance.

Outstanding Comics Award for Adults

Fiction

Winner

Tongues. Written by Anders Brekhus Nilsen. Art by Anders Brekhus Nilsen. 2025. Pantheon, $35 (9781524747206).

In this multi-layered reinterpretation of the myth of Prometheus, a prisoner watches from above as the humans he so loves fight against a seemingly all-powerful being and his cult of warriors. Meanwhile a small girl follows a talking chicken in hopes of being the chosen one to save the world.

Honors

Drome. Written by Jesse Lonergan. Art by Jesse Lonergan. 2025. 23rd St., $29.99 (9781259386939).

At the birth of humanity, only violence prevailed. When the greater powers create an unbeatable demigoddess to teach peace and harmony, civilization truly begins. But in a world where chaos and order are constantly at battle, who will truly prevail in leading humanity?

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes. Written by Anaïs Flogny. Art by Anaïs Flogny. Translated by Dan Christensen. 2025. Abrams ComicArts, $25.99 (9781419785696).

A young immigrant’s life is changed after meeting a kingpin in the Chicago criminal underworld.

Nonfiction

Winner

Insectopolis. Written by Peter Kuper. Art by Peter Kuper. 2025. W.W. Norton & Company, $35 (9781324035718).

A swarm of different Insects enter the New York Public Library to learn about their history and the effects they have on the human world.

Honors

Black Arms to Hold You Up. Written by Ben Passmore. Art by Ben Passmore. 2025. Pantheon, $22 (9780593316122).

A conversational exploration of violence in Black liberation movements across the US.

Series

Winner

The Night Eaters: She Eats the Night. Written by Marjorie Liu. Art by Sana Takeda. 2022. Abrams ComicArts, $24.99 (9781419758706).

The Night Eaters: Her Little Reapers. Written by Marjorie Liu. Art by Sana Takeda. 2023. Abrams ComicArts, $29.99 (9781419758720).

The Night Eaters: Their Kingdom Come. Written by Marjorie Liu. Art by Sana Takeda. 2025. Abrams ComicArts, $34.99 (9781419758744).

When their mother forces them to clean up the creepy house next door, twins Billy and Milly discover an entire new world of haunts and mysteries that has shaped their entire lives.

Honors

The Department of Truth volume 1: The End of the World. Written by James Tynion IV. Art by Martin Simmonds. Letters by Aditya Bidikar. Designed by Dylan Todd. Edited by Steve Foxe. 2021. Image Comics, $9.99 (9781534318335).

The Department of Truth volume 2: The City Upon a Hill. Written by James Tynion IV. Art by Martin Simmonds. Letters by Aditya Bidikar. Designed by Dylan Todd. Edited by Steve Foxe. 2021. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534319219).

The Department of Truth volume 3: Free Country. Written by James Tynion IV. Art by Elsa Charretier, Tyler Boss, John J. Pearson, David Romero, Alison Sampson, and Jorge Fornes. Cover art by Martin Simmonds. Colors by Matt Hollingsworth, Roman Titov, and Jordie Bellaire. Letters by Aditya Bidikar. Designed by Dylan Todd. Edited by Steve Foxe. 2022. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534321199).

The Department of Truth volume 4: The Ministry of Lies. Written by James Tynion IV. Art by Martin Simmonds. Letters by Aditya Bidikar. Designed by Dylan Todd. Edited by Steve Foxe. 2022. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534323414).

The Department of Truth volume 5: What Your Country Can Do for You. Written by James Tynion IV. Art by Martin Simmonds, Elsa Charretier, Tyler Boss, John J. Pearson, David Romero, Alison Sampson, and Jorge Fornes. Colors by Jordie Bellaire. Letters by Aditya Bidikar. Designed by Dylan Todd. Edited by Steve Foxe. 2025. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534369498).

The Department of Truth volume 6: Twilight’s Last Gleaming. Written by James Tynion IV. Art by Martin Simmonds and Letizia Cadonici. Colors by Jordie Bellaire. Letters by Aditya Bidikar. Designed by Dylan Todd. Edited by Steve Foxe. 2025. Image Comics, $16.99 (9781534330153).

While exploring the mentality of flat earth conspiracy believers, Cole Turner gets recruited by a secretive government agency that battles an ideological war against supernatural ideas.

Search & Destroy volume 1. Written by Atsushi Kaneko. Based on work by Osamu Tezuka. Art by Atsushi Kaneko. Lettering by Phil Christie. Translation by Ben Applegate. 2024. Fantagraphics, $14.99 (9781683969327).

Search & Destroy volume 2. Written by Atsushi Kaneko. Based on work by Osamu Tezuka. Art by Atsushi Kaneko. Lettering by Phil Christie. Translation by Ben Applegate. 2025. Fantagraphics, $14.99 (9798875000522).

Search & Destroy volume 3. Written by Atsushi Kaneko. Based on work by Osamu Tezuka. Art by Atsushi Kaneko. Lettering by Phil Christie. Translation by Ben Applegate. 2025. Fantagraphics, $14.99 (9781683969662).

A feral cyborg tears through a robot underworld to reclaim the body parts that were stolen from her.

Atsushi Kaneko and Briana Loewinsohn receive the inaugural ALA Outstanding Comics Awards

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Atsushi Kaneko and Briana Loewinsohn

Fantagraphics has announced that Atsushi Kaneko and Briana Loewinsohn are recipients of  inaugural Outstanding Comics Awards from the American Library Association’s Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table.

Briana Loewinsohn received the Outstanding Comics Award – Young Adult in the Category of Nonfiction Winner for Raised By Ghosts. Set in the author’s own teenage years, Raised By Ghosts follows a semi-autobiographical Briana through middle school and high school in the 1990’s. It’s a love letter to friends and family and all of the messy complexities they come with that reads like “slightly-grungy Wes Anderson” (Comics Beat). Briana had this to say about the announcement!

Atsushi Kaneko received the Outstanding Comics Award – Adult in the Category of Series Honor Books for Search and Destroy Vol. 1, 2, and 3. Translated by Ben Applegate, the series—”a blast of pure cyberpunk energy” (Publishers Weekly Starred Review)—is a contemporary reimagining of the timeless, Eisner Award–winning Dororo, by “God of Manga” Osamu Tezuka.

These aren’t the first awards for these titles either! Search and Destroy already has a fancy American Manga Awards seal on its catalog page, and Raised by Ghosts has been packing the trophy case full since its 2025 release, with a Harvey Award, a spot on both the Missouri Association of School Librarians Denny O’Neil Graphic Novel List AND the New York Public Library’s Best Comics For Adults List.

ALA 2025: Oni Press Announces an All-Star Talent Signing and Panel Schedule

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Oni Press has announced its upcoming slate of guests, signings, and panels for 2025’s American Library Assocation Conference (ALA). Taking place Friday, June 27th through Monday, June 30th, visit creators Brian Gonsar, Mat Heagerty, Ben Kahn, Maia Kobabe, Meredith McClaren, and Joey Weiser at Booth #418 for daily signings. Stop by the booth for ARCs, bookmarks, badge ribbons, and the first 100 librarians at the booth Friday through Sunday will receive a free Gender Queer Oni Press Tote bag!*

Ahead of ALA, Oni Press has released an all-new ALA-focused trailer for Dracula’s Brunch Club, a hilarious new graphic novel from debut authors Brian Gonsar and Keenan Gaybba. Dracula’s Brunch Club co-creator Brian Gonsar will host a Donut Brunch at ALA on Sunday, June 29, at Booth #418, starting at 9 a.m. while supplies last! You DO-NUT want to miss it.

Then: Join Oni’s esteemed talent to talk comics and the creative process on panels such as “Scary Sisters: Libraries Supporting Women Creators in Horror Comics” with Meredith McClaren on Saturday, June 28 at 10:30am in the Philadelphia Marriott, Franklin 11; the “Booklist Graphic Novel Panel, Part II” with Mat Heagerty on Saturday, June 28 at 1:30pm on the Graphic Novel & Gaming Stage; “Power up the Pages with Spectacularly Supernatural and Superhuman Graphic Novels” with Brian Gonsar, Mat Heagerty, Meredith McClaren, Ben Kahn, and Joey Weiser on Sunday, June 29 at 11:30am on the Graphic Novel & Gaming Stage; “The Art of Building Bridges with Debut Middle Grade and Young Adult Authors” with Brian Gonsar on Sunday, June 29 at 12:30pm on the Chapter One Stage. 

And don’t miss Oni’s special guest – Gender Queer creator Maia Kobabe – speaking about censorship and graphic novels on programs such as the “GNCRT Friday Forum: Why Graphic Novels? Defending Graphic Novels Value in School in the Age of Censorship” at 2:00pm in the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Room 118 A B; the “Freedom to Read Foundation President’s Program: Fighting for Your Right to Read Freely” on Saturday, June 28 at 1:00pm in the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Room 107; and the “Banned Together: Defending Diverse Stories in a Time of Censorship” panel on Saturday, June 28 at 2:30pm on the A Real Page-Turner Stage. 

Check out Oni Press’ full ALA 2025 schedule below!

Friday, June 27

2:00pm – 3:00pm: GNCRT Friday Forum: Why Graphic Novels? Defending Graphic Novels Value in School in the Age of Censorship,

Featuring Maia Kobabe (Gender Queer: A Memoir)

Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center, Room 118 A B

Saturday, June 28

9:00am – 10:00am: Meet Brian Gonsar (Dracula’s Brunch Club) signing ARCs in Oni Press Booth #418

10:30am – 11:20am: Meet Maia Kobabe (Gender Queer: A Memoir) signing in Oni Press Booth #418

10:30am – 11:30am Panel: Scary Sisters: Libraries Supporting Women Creators in Horror Comics

Location: Philadelphia Marriott, Franklin 11

Horror often addresses “The Other,” that which is perceived as different, alien, or monstrous compared to the norm, invoking fear or revulsion. This panel will discuss how women comics creators, including writers, artists, and editors, use horror as a lens/mirror to reflect and critique societal issues about gender, race, sexuality, and other topics. Why do women create horror comics? Why do women read horror comics?

The role of libraries in collecting horror comics can help highlight the influence of women creators in horror comics. By displaying their work, libraries help support these creators’ contributions to the horror genre, and how they challenge and redefine the genre. Libraries can also support independent publishers or self-published creators of women-created horror comics.

Featuring Meredith McClaren (Meat Eaters), Jasmine Walls, Faith Erin Hicks, Sandy King, and Tillie Walden

Moderated by Lizzy Walker, Associate Professor, Metadata & Digital Initiatives Librarian, Wichita State University Libraries

12:00pm – 1:00pm: Meet Ben Kahn (Mr. Muffins: Defender of the Stars) signing copies in Oni Press Booth #418

1:00pm – 3:00pm: Attend the ALA GNCRT Magical Tea to hear from Dracula’s Brunch Club writer Brian Gonsar!

Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center, Room 202 A B

1:00pm – 2:00pm: Freedom to Read Foundation President’s Program: Fighting for Your Right to Read Freely

Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center, Room 107

Since its founding in 1969 the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) has had a critical impact on the right of Free People to Read Freely. First Amendment litigation is the foremost action achieving results in the fight against censorship and that is our expertise. FTRF President Sophia Sotilleo will be joined by a panel of notable guests, including author Maia Kobabe, to discuss First Amendment rights, how they look different in different sectors, and how our staff, members, and colleagues are dealing with challenges to their intellectual freedom. You will leave this program with knowledge of ways to move forward and tackle these issues with the support of each other and the support and expertise of the Foundation. Whether you are a long-time member or being introduced to FTRF for the first time, our mission is clear – Free People Read Freely®.

1:30pm – 2:30pm: Meet Joey Weiser (The Littlest Fighter) signing copies in Oni Press Booth #418

1:30pm – 2:20pm: Booklist Graphic Novel Panel, Part II

Location: Graphic Novel/Gaming Stage (Booth #2062)

Join Booklist for a #ReadGraphic panel featuring creators from your favorite publishers on Saturday, June 28 at 1:30 p.m. ET on the Graphic Novel/Gaming Stage during ALA’s Annual Conference in Philadelphia. Booklist’s Books for Youth and Graphic Novels editor Sarah Hunter will lead a conversation with creators Mat Heagerty (Indoor Kid from Oni Press); Colleen AF Venable (Junie B. Jones: The Graphic Novel from Random House Children’s Books); Brian “Smitty” Smith (Transformers: Worst Bot Ever – Meet Ballpoint! from Skybound Entertainment); and Scott Campbell (Cabin Head And Tree Head from Tundra Books). Stay tuned for a free book signing immediately following the panel!

2:30pm – 3:20pm Banned Together: Defending Diverse Stories in a Time of Censorship

Location: A Real Page-Turner Stage (Booth #2435)

Join editor Ashley Hope Pérez and contributors Nikki Grimes, Kelly Jensen, and Maia Kobabe for an insightful conversation about BANNED TOGETHER: OUR FIGHT FOR READERS’ RIGHTS, a bold anthology that tackles the issue of book bans through fiction, memoir, poetry, graphic narratives, essays, and more. This collection brings together the voices of fifteen legendary YA authors and illustrators, each exploring the high-stakes question of what is lost when books are kept from teens. With personal stories, clever comebacks to censorship, and powerful reflections on the importance of access to diverse stories, this program will highlight the urgency of defending intellectual freedom. Don’t miss this essential discussion on empowering young readers and the fight for the freedom to read.

Moderated by Sally Morgridge, editor of BANNED TOGETHER (Holiday House, Executive Editor)

3:00pm – 4:00pm: Meet Mat Heagerty (Indoor Kid) signing chapbooks in Oni Press Booth #418

4:00pm – 5:00pm: Meet Meredith McClaren (Meat Eaters) signing copies in Oni Press Booth #418

Sunday, June 29:

9:00am – 11:00am: Attend Donut Brunch at Oni Booth #418 and meet writer Brian Gonsar signing advance copies of DRACULA’S BRUNCH CLUB

*Donuts while supplies last 

11:30am – 12:30pm Meet Maia Kobabe signing copies of GENDER QUEER: A MEMOIR in Hoopla Booth #939

11:30am – 12:20pm: Panel: Power up the Pages with Spectacularly Supernatural and Superhuman Graphic Novels!

Location: Graphic Novel & Gaming Stage (Booth #2062)

Ever wonder what gives vampires the energy to live forever? (Hint, it’s a sweet treat!) Or how superpowered sports skills could change your life? (Spoiler, slam-dunks ahead!) Or what would happen if you woke up as a member of the undead? (These answers can’t stay buried.) How about if your pet Corgi was cosmically powered? (Tail wags to the rescue!). Or what if your small stature hid big battle energy? (Kaiju fights in store!) Find out all this and more as Brian Gonsar (Dracula’s Brunch Club), Mat Heagerty (Indoor Kid), Meredith McClaren (Meat Eaters), Ben Kahn (Mr. Muffins: Defender of the Stars), and Joey Weiser (The Littlest Fighter) join together for an extraordinary exploration of real-world topics such as mental health, bullying, and more!

Moderated by Oni Press Senior Editor Grace Scheipeter.

12:30pm – 1:30pm Power Up the Pages Panelist Signing with Mat Heagerty (Indoor Kid), Meredith McClaren (Meat Eaters), Ben Kahn (Mr. Muffins: Defender of the Stars), and Joey Weiser (The Littlest Fighter) in Oni Press Booth #418

12:30pm – 1:20pm Panel: The Art of Building Bridges with Debut Middle Grade and Young Adult Authors

Location: Chapter One Stage (Booth #112)

There are many challenges as well as opportunities new authors face in connecting with readers and the literary community. Join Brian Gonsar (Dracula’s Brunch Club), Stan Yan (The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang), Jess Callans (Ollie in Between), and Shana Targosz (The Underwild) as they share insights on creating authentic, diverse narratives, building a supportive network, and bringing people together in an ever-evolving world.

Moderated by Amie Wright, Toronto Comic Arts Festival, Executive Director

2:00pm – 3:00pm  Meet Maia Kobabe signing copies of GENDER QUEER: A MEMOIR in Oni Press Booth #418

The Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries 2025 grant cycle application ends soon

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2025 Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries

The Application for the 2025 Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries closes on January 12, 2025 at 12pm CT. Handed out annually, the award is administered by the American Library Association’s Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table.

Two grants will be given. The Will Eisner Graphic Novel Growth Grants provides support to a library that would like to expand its existing graphic novel services and programs and the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Innovation Grant provides support to a library for the initiation of a graphic novel service, program, or initiative.

The goal of the grant is to help launch library-generated programs that promote graphic novels to library patrons as well as to the local community.

Each winning library receives a grant award of $4,000 to support initiatives that align with the objective of the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries. The grant award will consist of the following:

  • $2,000 grant in collection development funds to purchase graphic novels,
  • $1,000 grant to host a graphic novel-themed event at a library or another community location, and
  • $1,000 grant to attend the ALA Annual Conference to receive their grant money. This grant can be used towards any of the following: conference registration, transportation, lodging and food.

In addition, from the book publishers and the Eisner Foundation, the winning libraries will also receive the following graphic novels, valued at approximately $3,000:

  • The Will Eisner Library: A graphic novel collection of Will Eisner’s work and biographies about Will Eisner (comprising approximately 40 books)
  • A selection of the winning titles from the current year’s Will Eisner Awards at Comic-Con International (comprising approximately 40 books).

You can find out more about the grants as well how to apply online.

Storm King Comics unveils Exclusive previews at the 2024 ALA Annual Conference

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Renowned producer and editor Sandy King and legendary filmmaker John Carpenter present Storm King Comics at the 2024 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition from June 27 to July 2, 2024. Diehard fans of horror, scifi, and genre storytelling can find Storm King Comics at Booth #150 (Graphic Novel/Gaming Alley) in the San Diego Convention Center. 

Horror fans can get an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated Summer and Fall 2024 releases from bestselling author Steve Niles and debut graphic novelist, Sian Mandrake. 

Storm King Comics, home to the critically acclaimed imprints Dark & Twisted, John Carpenter’s Night Terrors,Tales of Science Fiction, and John Carpenter Presents Storm Kids, as well as the award-winning anthology series John Carpenter’s Tales For A HalloweeNight, will reveal exclusive previews of their upcoming graphic novels from an exciting array of creators. 

THE KILLING HOLE by acclaimed horror author Steve Niles and artist Trevor Denham, with colors by Ryan Winn and letters by Janice Chiang. 

Stuck in an isolated suburb in ‘70s Virginia, 14-year-old Stewart is a lonely and neglected child of divorce who slips through the cracks until, one day, he notices a new kid at school. Peter has it even worse than he does, and the two begin to form an inseparable bond in their mutual hatred of everyone and everything else. But as their friendship deepens, things take a very dark turn. In bookstores July 23. 

THE KILLING HOLE

THE GOD LIST, co-created by author Steve Niles and artist Scott Hampton, with colors by Jessica Lange and letters by Janice Chiang.

William is a vintage book dealer from Greenwich Village. Lydia is a mysterious agent for an otherworldly organization. Together they must match wits and do battle with sinister forces seeking to destroy… THE GOD LIST. Rumored to be a priceless collection of secret masterpieces commissioned by God herself, the List is so closely guarded that most scholars disagree on its origins, or even if it exists at all. In bookstores July 30.

THE GOD LIST

BLOOD OF THE TAKEN created by debut graphic novelist Sian Mandrake (they/he), with letters by Janice Chiang. 

Theo, a 500-year-old vampire, has made a new home in a small town in Western Massachusetts, stalking its residents in search of just the right humans to spirit away to replace her lost brood. Tonight she thinks she’s found the perfect pair with lifelong best friends, Ed and Liam. As the two companions find themselves suddenly plunged into Theo’s rotting nightmare of a world, they quickly come to understand running isn’t an option. After all, when you’ve become one of the undead yourself, where can you call home except with the creature who made you?  Ed and Liam must learn to navigate Theo’s world if they want to survive it. In bookstores October 1.

BLOOD OF THE TAKEN

On Friday, June 28, at 5:30 p.m., the publisher will host an Opening Night Wine Mixer at Storm King Comics Booth #233 (Graphic Novel/Gaming Alley), where horror fans can enter a raffle to win a deluxe edition foil embossed box set collecting five bestselling graphic novels from the highly acclaimed imprint John Carpenter’s Night Terrors, including fan-favorite graphic novels 13 Horsemen, Black Sparrow, Graveyard Moon, Second Nature, & Sour Candy. 

Visitors to Storm King Comics Booth #233 throughout the weekend can also enter to win a rare deluxe edition box set of John Carpenter’s Tales for a HalloweeNight, collecting the first five volumes of the fan-favorite series, and signed by legendary filmmakers John Carpenter and Storm King Comics Editor-in-Chief Sandy King. Details at booth. 

Storm King Comics will be showcasing an array of new releases and worldwide bestsellers ranging in genre from horror, science-fiction, and dark thrillers to tales for all ages, including, but not limited to:

  • JOHN CARPENTER’S TALES FOR A HALLOWEENIGHT is the bestselling horror anthology that includes stories by the legendary filmmakers John Carpenter, Sandy King, and a coterie of acclaimed writers and artists who bring fresh new horrors to life each Halloween. 
  • Dark & Twisted presents DEATH MASK by Amanda Deibert and Cat Staggs about a young detective on the trail of a bizarre and gruesome serial killer that leads her to question her own feelings about justice and what it means to be “good” or “evil.”
  • Night Terrors presents USHER DOWN by Jason Henderson and Greg Scott tells the story of a psychic who joins a government expedition to explore the most legendary haunted house of all time, Edgar Allen Poe’s The House of Usher. The house is real, frozen in time below ground– but what the explorers find there is demonic, alive, and may well have called them for its own dark purposes.
  • Tales of Science Fiction presents THE ENVOY by David J. Schow and Andres Esparza about two former college best friends who engage in a fierce race to reach intelligent life first but encounter two very different contacts, each sparking distrust and fear of the other. Can the friends turned rivals figure out who to trust before it’s too late for humankind? 
  • Storm Kids Presents FETCH BOOK 1: THE JOURNEY and BOOK 2: THE RESCUE by Mike Sizemore and Dave Kennedy is the highly acclaimed series following the adventures of young Danni as she braves the Underworld to bring back her best friend and beloved pet, Pirate, with the help of the legendary Ulysses and a few other figures from myth.

3 Graphic Novels make the top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2023

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Gender Queer

Book challenges and book burnings are in vogue right now and being used in a culture war to shore up support for rightwing grifters who have little to go on for support beyond attacking others. The American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom each year compiles a list of the top 10 most challenged books. This year, three graphic novels made the list.

There were 4,240 unique books targeted for censorship in 2023 which as an increase of 65% from 2022. There were 1,247 demands to censor library books, materials, and resources. The number of titles targeted for censorship at public libraries increased by 92% over the previous year, accounting for about 46% of all book challenges in 2023.

All three graphic novels challenged contain LGBTQIA+ and were claimed to be “sexually explicit.”

Maia Kobabe‘s Gender Queer again topped the list with 106 challenges. The graphic novel has topped the list for the past three years. Mike Curato‘s Flamer was fifth with 67 challenges and Let’s Talk About It: The Teen’s Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan was ninth with 55 challenges.

You can see the full list here.

Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table Continues Comics Librarian Conference Travel Grant with funding from Skybound Entertainment

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The American Library Association Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table (GNCRT) has announced the second round of a grant opportunity supporting the professional development of library workers interested in expanding their knowledge and experience with comics in libraries. By providing funds to attend the upcoming 2024 ALA Annual Conference, GNCRT seeks to recognize the value and expertise of comics librarianship and provide resources for newer library professionals with limited financial support. Applications for the grant are open now and the deadline to apply is April 1, 2024. 

Through the GNCRT Comics Librarian Conference Travel Grant, two recipients will be selected to receive reimbursement of up to $3,000 toward their attendance at the upcoming 2024 ALA Annual Conference in San Diego, CA. The funds may be used to reimburse the cost of conference registration, travel and hotel expenses and meals during the conference. Additionally, GNCRT will provide opportunities for the grant winners to participate in sessions and network with comics publishers and their fellow GNCRT members.  Find eligibility information and application instructions online. 

The funding for these grants was provided by Skybound Entertainment’s donation of $6,000. GNCRT is grateful for the money provided by Skybound Entertainment, which provided essential support to establish the grant in 2023 and continue the grant in 2024. Additional opportunities to support this exciting award will be available going forward. 

Humanoids heads to the 2023 ALA Annual Conference

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Eight Limbs

Humanoids is heading to the 2023 ALA Annual Conference in Chicago, Illinois from June 22-27, 2023.

Readers and fans can find Humanoids at Booth #1326 with new releases from their critically acclaimed imprints and a special guest appearance from writer Stephanie Phillips for the exclusive worldwide debut of her upcoming graphic novel Eight Limbs, available for sale in bookstores everywhere July 11th.

  • Stephanie Phillips will be signing her exclusive Humanoids debut release, EIGHT LIMBS, at the Humanoids Booth #1326 at 12 PM on Saturday, June 24. Fans who attend the signing will receive a signed bookplate.

    Stephanie Phillips is an American writer known for comics and graphic novels such as Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman, Grim, and We Only Kill Each Other. She has written critically acclaimed work with some of the industry’s major publishers, such as DC Comics, Marvel Entertainment, Dark Horse, Image Comics, BOOM! Studios, and more. 
  • Humanoids COO, U.S.Operation, Alex Donoghue, will host a FRENCH COMICS AMA at the ALA Graphic Novel Roundtable booth from 4:30-5 PM on Saturday, June 24.

    Alex Donoghue was born in Paris, France and moved to the US in his teens. He first joined Humanoids in 2009 as Director of Operations, and now oversees all day-to-day operations for Humanoids’ LA office, in addition to being actively involved in its film & media developments as COO, U.S. Operations. He is also co-editor of the 2023 Eisner Award-nominated The Deluxe Gimenez: The Fourth Power & The Starr Conspiracy.

Humanoids will debut a brand new 2023 ALA-Exclusive tote bag featuring the Black Cat Social Club (illustration by Bob Quinn), as well as making available an array of new releases and global bestsellers ranging in genre from science-fiction, fantasy and thriller to comedy, adventure and children’s tales.

Exclusive: Oni Press announces its creator lineup for the ALA Annual Conference and Exhibition

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Oni Press will be represented at the ALA Annual Conference and Exhibition by creators Suzanne Walker (Mooncakes), Austin Paramore and Sarah Bollinger (Malcolm Kid and the Perfect Song), HF Brownfield (Quinnelope and the Cookie King Catastrophe), Dave Scheidt (Agents of S.L.A.M., Wrapped Up), Sean K. Dove (Brobots), and Mark Bouchard (It Took Luke). ALA Annual is the biggest library event of the year and takes place in Chicago this year from Friday June 23 to Monday June 26. Oni’s booth will be located at #3727.

Katie Sainz, Oni’s Director of Marketing said:

Every year Oni looks forward to ALA Annual as a chance to support and celebrate the librarians who ceaselessly champion our books in their communities. There’s a magic that happens on the show floor and one of the best parts is when we get to witness a librarian discover new creative voices or connect with a long-time favorite. This year we’re excited to introduce attendees to rising stars Austin Paramore and Sarah Bollinger, creators of the hopeful and humorous YA graphic novel Malcolm Kid and the Perfect Song as well as debut creator HF Brownfield whose graphic novel Quinnelope And the Cookie King Catastrophe, co-created with Kayla Coombs, will have middle grade readers laughing then clamoring for more. You won’t want to miss appearances by fan-favorite creators such as Suzanne Walker, Dave Scheidt, Sean Dove, and Mark Bouchard throughout the weekend as well!

The schedule is as follows: 

  • Friday, 6/23:
    • 6:00pm – 7:00pm: Dave Scheidt signing issues #1 and #2 of Wrapped Up in Hoopla booth (#2220)
  • Saturday, 6/24:
    • 9:15am – 10:00am: Austin Paramore and Sarah Bollinger signing Malcolm Kid and the Perfect Song ARCs in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 11:45am – 12:30pm: HF Brownfield signing Quinnelope and the Cookie King Catastrophe ARCs in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 1:00pm – 1:45pm: Sean K. Dove signing Brobots Vol. 1-3 in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 2:00pm – 2:45pm: Mark Bouchard signing It Took Luke in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 2:00pm – 4:00pm: Austin Paramore and Sarah Bollinger (Malcolm Kid and the Perfect Song) participating in the ALA GNCRT Tea in the Hyatt Regency McCormick, Room Grant Park AB
    • 3:00pm – 3:45pm: Suzanne Walker signing Mooncakes in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 4:15pm – 5:00pm: Dave Scheidt signing Wrapped Up Vol. 1 & 2 and Agents of S.L.A.M. in Oni Press booth (#3727)
  • Sunday, 6/25:
    • 9:15am – 10:00am: HF Brownfield signing Quinnelope and the Cookie King Catastrophe ARCs in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 10:30am – 11:15am: Austin Paramore and Sarah Bollinger Signing Malcolm Kid and the Perfect Song ARCs in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
    • 11:30am – 12:20pm: Hair Raising Horror Graphic Novels Panel on the Graphic Novel Gaming Stage 
    • Panel Description: Join Oni Press, BOOM!, and Skybound for a discussion with some of the most terrifying voices in horror! We will explore genre inspirations, unique insights and challenges of horror graphic novels, and how these creators deal with skeletons in the closet! Panelists include Mark Bouchard (It Took Luke), Tate Brombal (Behold Behemoth, House of Slaughter), Kyle Starks (I Hate this Place), and W. Maxwell Prince (Ice Cream Man).
    • Moderated by Pornsak Pichetshote, creator of Infidel
    • 12:45pm – 1:30pm: Mark Bouchard signing It Took Luke in Oni Press booth (#3727)
    • 1:30pm – 2:20pm: Too Funny! Kids Humor Comics That Leave Readers Laughing Panel on the Graphic Novel Gaming Stage
    • Panel Description: Boosting reading skills via silly scenarios? Yes please! Get ready to giggle with kid comic favorites Dave Scheidt (Agents of S.L.A.M., Wrapped Up), HF Brownfield (Quinnelope, Sep. 2023), and Sean Dove (Brobots) as they transport readers to wacky worlds filled with wrestling ring superheroes, mecha and mother goose, cookie catastrophes, and more!
    • Moderated by Kim Keown Farnsworth, Sacramento Public Library
    • 2:45pm – 3:30pm: Group Signing with “Too Funny” Panelists Dave Scheidt, HF Brownfield, Sean Dove in Oni Press booth (#3727)
    • 4:00pm – 4:45pm: Austin Paramore and Sarah Bollinger signing Malcolm Kid and the Perfect Song ARCs in Oni Press Booth (#3727)
  • Monday, 6/26:
    • 10:15am – 10:45am: HF Brownfield signing Quinnelope and the Cookie King Catastrophe ARCs in Oni Press Booth (#3727)

Dark Horse heads to the 2023 American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition

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Dark Horse Comics will be exhibiting at the 2023 American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition. If you are attending ALA Annual you can visit them and say hello to some of the talented authors and artists appearing at the booth.

SATURDAY – 06/24

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
ZACK KAPLAN Break Out

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
CHAD CORRIE The Shadow Regent; Sons of Ashgard: Ill Met in Elmgard

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
AMY CHU Carmilla: The First Vampire

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
CECIL CASTELLUCCI Shifting Earth; Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories Volume 1 – Rebels and Resistance

SUNDAY – 06/25

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
CHAD CORRIE The Shadow Regent; Sons of Ashgard: Ill Met in Elmgard

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
CECIL CASTELLUCCI Shifting Earth; Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories Volume 1 – Rebels and Resistance

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
ZACK KAPLAN Break Out

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
RAFER ROBERTS AND MIKE NORTON The Rock Gods of Jackson, Tennessee

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