Story Tags

Akissi

My Introduction to Graphic Novels

Shamefully, I have to admit that I read my first graphic novel two months ago. I wrote them off as childish and because of my ignorance I have missed out on great books over the years. As with most of the books I read, I look for characters that I see myself in: characters that are beautiful, smart, responsible and passionate about the world around them. What makes it extra special for me is finding these qualities in Black people across the African diaspora. Surprisingly, finding graphic novels with such specific criteria was not hard to find in our catalog.  

New Kid book cover

When You've Read All the Raina Telgemeier... (Part 2)

...try some of these.

I didn't want to overwhelm you with too many titles in my first Raina readalikes post, but boy do I have more. If you love Raina Telgemeier's books so much that the only ones you haven't read are the ones she hasn't published yet, there are so many other books you can enjoy in the meantime!

Sunny Side Up book cover

When You've Read All the Raina Telgemeier... (Part 1)

...try some of these.

You may know and love Raina Telgemeier (listen to her pronounce her name here) from her graphic novels Smile, Sisters,

Lovely cover

Learning About Differences

Not just for adults any more!

In cities like Washington, D.C. there are so many people and they are all unique. This curated list contains a variety of protagonists and thoughts about differences. Let's celebrate the beautiful diversity of our city with diverse reads! Picture books for early readers Lovely by Jess Hong

Luz sees the light cover

Graphic Novels and Nonfiction to Share with Kids

Connect with little literatis through graphic works

Sometimes, the best way to connect with the kids in your life is over a good book. But you might be wondering what constitutes a good book when it comes to little literatis. Fear not, the Children’s Librarian is here! Below, find six great graphic novels (and two graphic format nonfiction) to share with kids, whether you’re looking to start a conversation or just want a good story.

White paper with black writing reading "Constellation of Books"

Constellation of Books!

Favorites from Our Young Readers

The Grand Staircase at Woodridge has a few obvious purposes- going up and down between floors, and relaxing on the benches. A new collaborative project also brings book recommendations from young library readers in the form of the Constellation of Books! Friends wrote down their favorite books for inclusion in this fun display along the staircase glass, taking us from the stairs all the way to the stars. See anything you'd like to revisit?

Fever 1793

History Meets Fiction

Great Historical Fiction for ages 9-14

The DC Public Library and the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History have teamed up to highlight some great novels all about American history! As we head back into the school year, dive into some great historical fiction and hear a new perspective throughout different periods in American history.

art

Five Books That Got Me Interested in Reading

Reading used to be a chore for me. I used to cringe every time I had English/Literature class through my elementary/middle school years. I sat in the back and rarely raised my hand. I had done the reading required for that day. I had pretty good "reading comprehension" skills even though I didn't know it was even called that at that age. That wasn't the problem. I just was never interested in the books they had us reading at that time.

The Lake

Read Around the World: Japan

Japanese literature that isn't by Haruki Murakami

Expand your literary horizons by reading literature from other countries. Haruki Murakami is one of the most well-known authors in Japanese literature. Yet he is only one of many modern Japanese writers whose works are accessible in translation. A wide variety of genres and styles are represented in the selections below (all of which can be accessed through DC Public Library's stellar and diverse collection). Young Readers (Pre-K to 3rd Grade)

the doubtful guest

Gothic Fiction for the Whole Family (Part 1: Children)

A celebration of old-world-style scares

It's never too early to introduce your child to Gothic and Modern Gothic literature (or to develop a taste for it yourself). This glorious genre explores negativity in a manageable package. With supernatural elements and an exploration of feelings like unhappiness and loneliness, both Gothic and Modern Gothic literature provide a unique opportunity for readers to explore and discuss some of the more challenging and gruesome aspects of life, and to find ways to cope with scary and negative feelings in their day-to-day lives.

Pages