Top 5: Graphic Novels Women Will Love

Comic books have long thought to have been a boys-only hobby. Testosterone-laden bad boys and damsels in distress fostered a largely male audience but times are changing. More and more women are flocking to comics, as evidenced by the growing numbers of female cosplayers at conventions. Still, it’s often a daunting challenge to get into comics so here’s a list of five amazing graphic novels that are perfect for starting off your comic book collection.

5. Captain Marvel: In Pursuit of Flight, Kelly Sue Deconnick

If there’s one superheroine who gives Wonder Woman a run for her tiara, it’d be Captain Marvel. Originally created as Marvel’s first feminist heroine, Carol Danvers saved the world on a monthly basis as the cosmically-gifted Ms. Marvel. Decades later, Carol received a spiffy makeover and name change that announced her presence as a truly modern superhero. Kelly Sue Deconnick’s first collection of these new adventures, available in the trade paperback Captain Marvel: In Pursuit of Flight, features a sassy and witty Carol Danvers in an array of truly unique narratives. For anyone looking to get into superhero comics, this is the perfect in.

4. Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi

An atypical memoir, Persepolis details author Marjane Satrapi’s life growing up during the war between Iraq and Iran. This monochromatic graphic novel presents an intimate portrait of both Satrapi and the culture that surrounded her. It has been well-received across the world and has even been adapted into an Academy Award-nominated animated film. Persepolis is a delightful and engaging read that shouldn’t be missed.

3. Skim, Mariko Tamaki & Jillian Tamaki

With its stunning artwork, Skim is a masterful graphic novel that is accessible in its relatable narrative. Written by Canadian author and artist Mariko Tamaki and illustrated by her cousin Jillian Tamaki, Skim is a beautiful portrait of the life of Kimberly Keiko Cameron, otherwise known as “Skim.” Skim has to navigate through her adolescence and learn how to survive life as a high school student. This graphic novel earns extra points for being so distinctively Canadian (Swiss Chalet gets a shout-out!).

2. Ghost World, Daniel Clowes

This much-loved cult classic follows two social misfits – Enid Coleslaw and Rebbecca Doppelmeyer – as they attempt to find themselves in a faceless American town. Ghost World speaks to every teenager who has ever felt like an outsider and does its job of accurately depicting female characters as realistically as possible. It was even adapted into a critically-acclaimed feature film starring indie darling Thora Birch and a pre-Avengers Scarlett Johansson.

1.Batwoman: Elegy, Greg Rucka & J.H. Williams III

Gorgeous artwork and captivating storytelling are what elevate Batwoman: Elegy above all other superhero graphic novels. Written by former Wonder Woman scribe Greg Rucka, Elegy is an origin story that details Kate Kane’s life from disgraced soldier to proud lesbian vigilante. J.H. Williams III’s art is haunting and devastatingly beautiful, while Rucka’s treatment of Kate makes her one of the most well-written queer characters in comic books at the moment. This one is a must-read – regardless of whether you’re male or female.