I love a good graphic novel, and I really enjoy DC’s middle grade graphic novels. They make for such a fun handsell to my library kids, who know a lot of the characters from the movie and TV universes, but want more without being overwhelmed by years of continuity. And most importantly: they’re fun, because they star our favorite superheroes as kids! Here are two of the newest books to hit shelves.
DC’s Misfits of Magic, by Matthew Dow Smith, (May 2025, DC Comics), $12.99, ISBN: 9781799501268
Ages 8-12
Rikki and Ross are orphaned kids sent to a summer camp for magical kids while the monks watching over them get a little break. They’ve put other summer camps out of business, so they don’t have the highest hopes, but this camp is different: first of all, Zatanna Zatara is one of the camp counselors, and some of the campers? Boston Brand, or as he’s better known, Deadkid; Danny Cassidy, the Blue Devil, and June Moon, who shares herself with a powerful sorceress called The Enchantress. Right about now, folks familiar with DC Comics may be smiling right about now; for those who aren’t, trust me: these are popular characters. Smith nails the essence of each character while making them accessible to younger readers. The summer camp setting is hilarious, with all of the friendship-bracelet-making and magical cloak-dyeing that one can expect to find at a magical summer setting. A fun mystery brings the group together and bonds the new friends with jokes, teamwork, and a social media post or two thrown in. In all, a fun summer read that kids will get a kick out of, whether or not they’re familiar with these characters. Put it on your shelves!
Superman’s Good Guy Gang, by Rob Justus, (July 2025, DC Comics), $12.99, ISBN: 9781799504061
Ages 5-7
This one runs a little younger – perfect for emerging readers! – and middle graders will get a kick out of this one, too. Eight-year-old Clark Kent is a super kid, but he’s also super lonely and super bored (even though six-year-old Lex Luthor tries super hard to get him to hang out with him) until he meets up with two other super-powered kids: Green Lantern and Hawkgirl! As they try to figure out who’s going around freezing puppies, a giant robot attacks, but it’s shooting… milkshakes? A fun and hilarious adventure filled with kid-friendly banter, Superman’s Good Guy Gang has a nice deep-cut surprise at the end of the story and frenetic energy that bored kids can truly understand and appreciate. If you have readers who enjoy graphic novels by Art Baltazar and Franco, they will love Rob Justus. Another good addition to your graphic novels collections. I can’t wait to see more!
Mom Read It 