10+ Best Comic Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect comic books for 9-year-olds? Whether you're looking to spark imagination or encourage a love for reading, finding the right comics can be a game changer. In this blog, we'll dive into a variety of captivating comic books that are sure to capture the interest of any 9-year-old. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to keep those pages turning!

Fun Comic Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Smile by Raina Telgemeier
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Autobiography
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel is a true story about the author's tumultuous middle school years after she accidentally knocks out her two front teeth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's relatable and heartfelt, perfect for helping kids understand that everyone goes through awkward phases.
  • Perfect for: Kids who appreciate real-life stories and those dealing with their own growing pains.

• Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Humor
  • Synopsis: A part-dog, part-man police officer fights crime and stands up to the city's most dastardly villains.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with heroism and is packed with action, which can motivate reluctant readers to read more.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love superheroes and laughter.

• Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: After moving to an ancestral home, Emily and her brother Navin discover a magical amulet that transports them to an alternate world full of danger and adventure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an exciting blend of magic and adventure that can spark a child's imagination and enthusiasm for reading.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy and young adventurers.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself a reluctant heroine when she's thrust into a distant galaxy after pressing a red button that transports her friend away.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its strong female protagonist and fast-paced plot make it a captivating read that promotes bravery and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who dream of outer space and heroic deeds.

• Bone by Jeff Smith
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
  • Synopsis: The Bone cousins, lost in a vast uncharted desert, find themselves in a mysterious valley filled with wonderful and terrifying creatures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It masterfully blends whimsical comedy with epic fantasy, providing a unique reading experience that can keep kids hooked.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy both humor and adventure in their reading choices.

Educational Comic Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Science Comics: Rockets by Anne Drozd and Jerzy Drozd
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This comic book explores the history and science behind rockets, from the ancient Chinese inventors to modern space exploration.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Science literacy, history of technology, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines detailed scientific explanations with engaging visuals, making complex concepts accessible and fun.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and space enthusiasts.

• Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang and Mike Holmes
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Educational
  • Synopsis: This series follows Hopper and her friends as they use their coding skills to solve mysteries at their school.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic programming concepts, problem-solving, logical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces basic coding skills through storytelling, which is a great way to engage kids in STEM.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in computers and coding.

• The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure, Educational
  • Synopsis: Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a field trip through the city’s waterworks to learn about the water cycle and water conservation.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the water cycle, environmental science
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an adventurous and humorous way to learn about scientific concepts and the importance of water conservation.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy science and adventurous field trips.

• Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: One Dead Spy by Nathan Hale
  • Genre(s): Historical, Biography, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A graphic novel that tells the story of American Revolutionary War hero Nathan Hale, using a mixture of fact and fiction.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, reading comprehension, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes history accessible and entertaining, with a good mix of humor and factual content.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and fans of adventure stories.

• Dinosaurs: Fossils and Feathers by MK Reed and Joe Flood
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: Part of the Science Comics series, this book covers the history of paleontology and the science behind how dinosaurs lived and died.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, paleontology, evolutionary biology
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough insight into the world of dinosaurs and paleontology through engaging comic illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young dinosaur enthusiasts and budding paleontologists.

Challenging Comic Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Mouse Guard: Fall 1152 by David Petersen
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a world without humans, mice struggle to live and thrive amidst dangers and predators. This series follows the adventures of the Mouse Guard, defenders of all mice, focusing on their bravery and wisdom.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure and the medieval setting use complex language and themes that delve into loyalty, bravery, and survival.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers intricate storytelling and beautifully detailed illustrations that can captivate and challenge young readers, enhancing their appreciation for art and narrative depth.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy detailed fantasy worlds and epic tales of heroism.

• Cleopatra in Space by Mike Maihack
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A teenage Cleopatra is transported into the future, where she attends an elite school and learns she is destined to save the galaxy.
  • Why this book is challenging: The mix of historical character with futuristic settings offers a complex narrative that challenges young readers to think creatively and contextually.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling blend of history and science fiction with strong female leadership, encouraging both imagination and interest in history and space.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in space adventures and powerful female protagonists.

• The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a city that has seen many conquerors, two unlikely friends from different cultural backgrounds seek to make their city a better place amidst political and social turmoil.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes such as cultural identity and social unity, presented through a nuanced narrative that requires careful thought and reflection.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book provides a thoughtful exploration of friendship and social issues, wrapped in an engaging adventure that can broaden perspectives.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about friendship and cultural diversity.

• The Arrival by Shaun Tan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Silent (Wordless)
  • Synopsis: This wordless graphic novel tells the story of an immigrant's journey to an unfamiliar and surreal city, using only images.
  • Why this book is challenging: The absence of text requires readers to interpret the story through its detailed and expressive artwork, enhancing visual literacy and empathy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique visual experience that stimulates the imagination and encourages understanding and empathy for immigrants' experiences.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and those interested in storytelling through art.

• Giants Beware! by Jorge Aguirre, illustrated by Rafael Rosado
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A fearless young girl, Claudette, embarks on a quest to slay a giant, dragging her timid brother and aspiring princess best friend along with her.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with themes of bravery, fear, and friendship, encouraging readers to confront and discuss these topics.
  • Why we recommend this book: This graphic novel is both fun and inspiring, promoting courage and determination through its adventurous plot and relatable characters.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and those who love tales of bravery and friendship.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old develop great reading habits through comic books, you're in the right place. Comic books can be a fantastic way to engage young readers, offering vibrant visuals and captivating stories. Here are some exercises that can make reading comics even more beneficial for your young reader:

• Create a Comic Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Make a list of new or interesting words found in comic books.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and aids in understanding the story better.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to look up meanings and use them in sentences.

• Summarize the Story
  • What it is: After reading, summarize the comic book's story in a few sentences.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Discuss the summary together to reinforce understanding and make it a fun activity.

• Character Connection
  • What it is: Pick a favorite character and describe their traits, problems, and achievements.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of character development.
  • Tips: Use examples from the comic to back up their points, enhancing critical thinking.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next in the story before turning the page.
  • How it helps: Encourages imaginative thinking and anticipation skills.
  • Tips: Make it a playful challenge to see who guesses more accurately.

• Comic Book Swap
  • What it is: Swap comic books with friends to read different types.
  • How it helps: Exposes the reader to a variety of writing styles and genres.
  • Tips: Organize a monthly swap meet with friends or a local library group.

These exercises aren't just beneficial; they're also a lot of fun! They'll help your child develop a love for reading while improving their comprehension and critical thinking skills. So, grab some comics and let's make reading a super adventure!