Favourite Graphic Novels & Manga of 2021

As I have read a lot of books this year, I always want to give graphic novels and manga their own celebration as they often get overlooked and do make up a lot of my reading. I also find that even though I read a lot of them, it takes a lot to convince me and make it a new favourite. So here are my best...

Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman 

Like everyone on the internet, I too am a massive Heartstopper fan and Volume 4 is no different. I love the relationship of Nick and Charlie and the side characters also make the series. This one also explores the way that mental health can impact romance and it still does justice to the story and does not fall into cliches. I am eagerly anticipating the final volume but I don't want it to be over. 

The Impending Blindness of Billie Scott by Zoe Thorogood

One of the last graphic novels I read this year and the one that has the second amount of hype, The Impending Blindness of Billie Scott also leaves a lasting impression. I love a good British graphic novel and this definitely explores parts of British life that are rarely explored in graphic form and in books in general. It felt rare and I spent a lot of the book rooting for Billie and emphasising her. It is as good as everyone says, believe the hype. 

Home Sick Pilots Volume 1 & 2 by Dan Watters

I have to admit that this might be an unpopular opinion on my part because this series does not get all of the praise but I really like it. I think it is a perfect blend of horror and sci-fi and although it gets quite weird so I would just say go with it. Most of the time, I loved the relationship between the Home Sick Pilots and I can't wait to read the next issue and volume. 

Mamo #1 by Sas Milledge

Even though I haven't finished this series yet, the first issue was really special. It had the perfect parts of whimsy and contemporary vibes. It also has some great fantasy elements and I loved the growing relationship between the two main characters. I love the colours and the art style. It was just a great start to the series. 

The Golden Sheep #1 by Kaori Ozaki

I picked up this book on a whim because I saw the cover randomly in Waterstones and thought that it looked really interesting. The book details a lot of friendship elements and also details music which is something that I really love. It also details the mental health in a manga which again I am really connected to. I recommend this one (obviously!).

Blue Flag Volume 5 by Kaiko 

I have been reading this series since last year and I have been really loving it and I was really disappointed that I didn't put it in my favourites of last year. I have been really loving the characters and the romance and it is definitely a series that I can't wait to read the rest of this year. I highly recommend this series in general and of course this issue. 

Silk: Threats and Menaces by Maurene Goo

I do really love Silk as a character so when I discovered that there was a new series out I had to get my hands on it. While this one was not perfect, I just have to shout it out as I loved seeing more from Cindy Moon and her crime-fighting ways. It was also nice to read from a YA author who is writing for Marvel!

Retrograde Orbit by Kristyna Baczynski

One of the first graphic novels that I read of the year, Retrograde Orbit left an impression on me. With the use of different colours for different parts of the main characters life. It left an impact on me and I loved the idea of having a coming of age story being a massive part of a sci-fi story. A little known graphic novel that definitely deserves some attention. 

What are your favourite books, graphic novels and manga? Let me know in the comments!

See you soon, 

Amy