If you’re looking to curl up with unique and inspiring books during the upcoming semester break, look no further than this list of six graphic novels compiled by instructional designer Kristen Yunis in partnership with librarian Allyson Mower.

Akira
By Katsushiro Ōtomo

Written in the 80’s and set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo in the year 2019. Akira influenced the work of many other manga artists to follow. The library has this six-volume series in both its original language, Japanese, and in an English translation.

Frizzy
By Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra

A coming-of-age story of a young girl’s journey in embracing her naturally curly hair.

Maus
By Art Spiegelman

Shiver: Selected Stories
By Junji Itō

A collection of short stories from horror manga artist, Junji Itō. (Reader note: These are quite gruesome as it is part of the “body horror” subgenre. In my mind – Junji is the “Edgar Allen Poe” of Manga. The stories are absolutely spine-chilling and the library has many books authored by him!)

Bloom
By Kevin Panetta and Savanna Ganucheau

The story of Ari, a gay high-school graduate who falls in love while grappling with the conflict between his dream of moving to the city and the expectation that he stays in his hometown to support his family’s business.

Persepolis
By Marjane Satrapi

An autobiographical coming-of-age story set during the Iranian Revolution. The illustrations are endearing, engaging, and do so much for the storytelling. This title also frequently gets challenged and banned for discussion of sex, violence, torture, and use of inappropriate language.