Eileen Gonzalez | June 6, 2024

Celebrate Pride Month with These 8 Exciting Graphic Novel Releases

June is a wonderful time of year for many reasons. The weather is warm and inviting, it's Pride Month—a time to honor and celebrate all gender identities and sexual orientations—and it's the perfect time to dive into some fantastic new graphic novels. Here, we’ve curated eight of the most compelling releases that you won't want to miss, featuring a diverse range of stories from thrilling adventures to profound personal journeys.

Graphic Novels to Look Out For

1. Barda by Ngozi Ukazu (June 4)

DC Comics brings the legendary Fourth World to life with "Barda," a deeply emotional comic by Ngozi Ukazu. Barda has been trained to become a formidable warrior on the terrifying planet of Apokalips. Amid her duties, she meets Scott Free, an everlasting optimist, ushering Barda into an exploration of love and the realization of the world beyond Apokalips.

2. Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans, Edited by Sammy Lisel and Hazel Newlevant (June 4)

An authentically profound and enlightening anthology, "Becoming Who We Are" edited by Sammy Lisel and Hazel Newlevant, offers a collection of real-life narratives from individuals growing up trans. In a media landscape often dominated by negative portrayals, this graphic novel shines a light on the lived experiences and resilience of trans youth.

Diverse Range of Themes

Whether you're seeking stories that delve into themes of identity, love, and resilience, or you prefer heart-pounding adventures, this June's selection has something for every reader. From explorations of personal growth to reimagined tales of classic characters, you'll find a treasure trove of narratives that will keep you engaged throughout the summer.

"Comics are a gateway drug to literacy." - Art Spiegelman

3. Heartstopper by Alice Oseman (June 11)

A tale that's captured hearts worldwide, "Heartstopper" by Alice Oseman follows the love story between Charlie, a high-strung over-thinker, and Nick, a cheerful, kind-hearted rugby player. Their journey of self-discovery and romance is beautifully illustrated and emotionally resonant.

4. Robyn by Ari North (June 18)

Delve into a post-apocalyptic fantasy world with Robyn, who, along with her fellow survivors, battles to establish a new social order while coping with the indelible marks left by past traumas. This gripping novel by Ari North promises to be both a visual delight and a thought-provoking read.

Upcoming Collections and Anthologies

5. The Trans Culture Anthology (June 25)

This collection brings together stories from various trans writers and artists, providing a kaleidoscope of experiences within the transgender community. By presenting diverse voices, "The Trans Culture Anthology" is an invaluable addition to any collection, offering multiple perspectives on trans life and identity.

6. Prism: Showing Pride in All Colors (June 30)

Bringing together illustrators from various backgrounds, "Prism" showcases stories that celebrate Pride in the most colorful and inclusive way possible. The graphic novel explores love, identity, and self-expression through a spectrum of characters and narratives, each beautifully depicted in vibrant art styles.

Special Releases and Retellings

7. Wonder Woman: Tempest Tossed by Laurie Halse Anderson (June 30)

In "Wonder Woman: Tempest Tossed," Laurie Halse Anderson brings a fresh perspective to the iconic character of Wonder Woman. Young Diana's adventures as she navigates the human world, dealing with her identity and sense of justice, make for a narrative that is both inspiring and timely.

8. Mooncakes by Wendy Xu and Suzanne Walker (June 30)

Mooncakes intertwines magic, love, and family bonds in this enchanting tale by Wendy Xu and Suzanne Walker. Following the journey of a young witch and a werewolf, this whimsical graphic novel delves into themes of acceptance, heritage, and friendship, making it a perfect read for Pride Month.

A Cautionary Note

Before you swipe your credit card and head to the checkout, it's always good to double-check the release dates of these novels. The volatile world of publishing can sometimes cause delays or changes to release schedules. So, whether you grab these titles in June or later, they are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

If you're looking for more graphic novel recommendations, subscribe to our Comics/Graphic Novels section on Book Riot to stay updated! And don't forget the bookish merch available at Liam and Lore, offering an array of goodies that any book lover would adore.