Graphic novels are becoming more popular, and they can be found in almost all genres and age ranges now. As Little Bookworm (my daughter’s new chosen name for herself) is starting to venture into longer books, and independent reading, graphic novels and illustrated children’s books are providing her with more to explore on her own. So I wanted to share some of the latest illustrated chapter books and graphic novels for kids that we have been enjoying.

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Unicorn & Yeti: Cheer Up*

Written by Heather Ayris Burnell and illustrated by Hazel Quintanilla

This illustrated early reader introduces kids to Unicorn and Yeti, who are best friends. The book is broken down into 3 short stories which touch on sweet lessons of friendship. The illustrations are full of bright colors, and highlight the love and friendship between the two characters. Kids will love the funny cartoon illustrations, while parents will appreciate the simple lessons on kindness, friendship, and appreciating the little things in life.

The Princess in Black

Written by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale and illustrated by LeUyen Pham

This adorable girl power chapter book series follows the adventures of Princess Magnolia, a pretty princess who wears pink and does all the things a princess should. But she also holds a secret. When she transforms into her alter ego, the Princess in Black, she defeats monsters and saves the day. The book has short chapters, full of vibrant and funny illustrations. This is a great starter chapter series for little ones, and both boys and girls can appreciate the adventures of Princess Magnolia.

Related Post: Strong Princess Books for Kids

Unicorn Diaries*

Written by Rebecca Elliott

This adorable illustrated chapter book series follows the adventures of Rainbow Tinseltail, a friendly unicorn from Sparklegrove School. The book is written in a diary style, with lined pages, large text, and lots of colorful illustrations. In this story, Rainbow wants a best friend, and she hopes she will find that in the new magical unicorn that just came to Sparklegrove Forest. Kids will love the colorful illustrations on every page, and the mystical creatures featured throughout the book.

Fox & Rabbit*

Written by Beth Ferry and illustrated by Gergley Dudas

This sweet graphic novel series for kids focuses on the friendship between Fox and Rabbit. While they both have different likes and fears, together they are able to face their fears and enjoy magical things in the world. The book is broken down into 5 short stories, each with an alliterative title. The story is told through conversations between the characters, as well as wordless illustrations. Kids will love following along with the pair’s adventures, and learning important lessons about friendship and facing fears.

Fox & Rabbit: Make Believe*

Written by Beth Ferry and illustrated by Gergely Dudas

In this second book in the early graphic novel series, Fox and Rabbit go on more adventures together and meet new friends. When they meet Owl, he teaches them about letting their imaginations run wild, and together they play lots of creative games. The brightly colored illustrations and adorable animal characters are sure to draw emerging readers into the story.

Related Post: Early Chapter Books for Kids

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wisp*

Written by Jonathan Auxier and illustrated by Olga Demidova

This vividly illustrated chapter book follows a young boy named Auggie who lived on an island on the top of the world. Auggie is good at taking care of animals, so he cares for all of the unique creatures found in the Fabled Stables. The story follows the young boy as he ventures out to save creatures in need, along with some helpful (and unique) friends. Kids will love the fantastical world that Auggies lives in, and the amazing creatures highlighted in the brightly colored illustrations.

Layla and the Bots: Happy Paws*

Written by Vicky Fang and illustrated by Christine Nishiyama

This illustrated chapter book series for kids introduces readers to Layla, an inventor and a rock star. Layla built a group of bots, and together they perform music concerts all over the world. This book is broken down into 9 chapters, following Layla and her bots as they use their music and inventing skills to try to save the town’s amusement park. The colorful illustrations shows how Layla and her adorable robots problem solve and create new inventions to help save the park.

Related Post: Children’s Books about Strong Girls

Baby-Sitters Little Sister: Karen’s Witch*

Based on the novel by Ann M. Martin and illustrated by Katy Farina

This graphic novel version of the beloved Baby-Sitters Little Sister series of early chapter books brings the popular characters to a new generation. Follow Karen, the little sister of Kristy from the Baby Sitters Club, as she tries to prove that her neighbor Mrs. Porter is actually a witch named Morbidda Destiny. The story is fast paced, told through comic style illustrations that are sure to draw kids in to the story. Fans of the Baby Sitters Club and the spin off series will love the opportunity to introduce these beloved characters to their kids.

Grumpy Unicorn*

Written by Joey Spiotto

This hilarious graphic novel for kids follows Grumpy Unicorn as he heads out on the road to find adventure. The vivid illustrations feature the adorably annoyed main character as he meets new characters on his travels, and visits new places. The book is broken down into small stories, told mostly through speech bubbles and funny pictures. Grumpy Unicorn is hilarious in his never ending grumpiness, and kids will laugh along at his travels.

Do your kids read illustrated chapter books? What are the best graphic novels for kids? Share your favorites in the comments!

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