CAMBRIDGE – Did you know? Your local library has one of the most extensive collections of graphic novels and manga for children, teens and adults on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Readers of all ages will find everything from stories featuring popular superheroes, like Batman and Superman, to classic literature, such as “1984” and “The Great Gatsby,” not to mention hundreds of original stories, from the action-packed adventures of “The Last Kids on Earth” to wholesome stories of love and friendship like “The Girl from the Sea” and even serious occult classics like “The Sandman.”

Our adult and teen manga collections are continuously growing from popular anime titles like “Attack on Titian,” “My Hero Academia” and “Spy x Family” to lesser-known favorites like “Wonder Cat Kyuu-chan,” “Scott Pilgrim” and “Akira.”

If you’ve never picked up a graphic novel, you may be imagining the old-style comic book. However, modern graphic novels and manga have new, fresh art styles with something for everyone.

You may even be thinking that graphic novels aren’t real books. Well, graphic novels are indeed real books and their diverse and inclusive character representations make them popular with readers.

The library recommends graphic novels for struggling and reluctant readers who may benefit from the pairing of words with images. According to the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity, graphic novels are the great equalizers because they invite all levels of readers into reading conversations.

If you or your child struggles with finding reading interesting, try a graphic novel or manga to get started. You will find graphic novels and manga in both our Cambridge and Hurlock branches.