The rise of graphic novels and the continued popularity of comics (Wonder Woman, anyone?) can maybe be a tad overwhelming for readers just beginning to get into the genre. There's just so much to choose from!
I'm a graphic novel novice, but I have a comic book geek of a husband (don't worry, that's how he refers to himself, too) who helps me curate my choices. If you're not so lucky to have a personal comic expert living in your house, check out NPR's 100 Favorite Comics and Graphic Novels list.
The list isn't an objective "best of" list; it's more personal than that. NPR asked readers to submit their favorite picks, and then their crack team of critics and creators helped narrow down the 7,000+ submissions into this final list, nicely sorted into categories to make finding a new book or series to try easier.
Bonus: their list includes Raina Telgemeier's Ghosts, Jeff Smith's BONE series, and Kazu Kibuishi's Amulet series! They say:
Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier: "Our judges had a hard time picking just one Raina Telgemeier book, but eventually we settled on the gorgeous, heart-tugging Ghosts..."
Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi: "...a charming mashup of everything from Lord of the Rings to Star Wars."
BONE by Jeff Smith: "...a great comic to start your little readers on."
There are lots of other great titles in their roundup. Check out the full list here.