Graphic novels are an ideal way to blend the written word with impressive illustrations. This makes the visual medium an exceptional way to aid in representation, adding an extra layer to its ability to portray people of varied identities. Here are some brilliant graphic novels that have both Hispanic and LGBTQ+ representation!
You Brought Me the Ocean by Alex Sanchez and Illustrated by Jul Maroh
The origin story of DC Comics’ Aqualad, You Brought Me the Ocean, follows Jake Hyde, a high school student grappling with his closeted sexuality and secret superhero powers. Jake lives in the New Mexico desert, but he yearns to study oceanography at a college on the coast, despite his best friend, Maria, and his mother’s encouragement that he stay put. There’s also Jake’s attraction to Kenny Liu, the only out gay kid at his school. Plus, when Jake comes into contact with water, the blue markings on his skin glow. Needless to say, Jake has a lot going on. This poignant story of identity and embracing one’s differences is perfect for comic book fans looking for diverse representation.
Chef’s Kiss by Jarrett Melendez and Illustrated by Danica Brine, Hank Jones, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou
A nominee for the Goodreads Choice Awards in 2022, Chef’s Kiss is a wholesome, tender story about found family and following one’s dreams. Ben Cook is an English graduate who wants nothing more than to become a writer. But despite his best efforts, he can’t land a job. When Ben sees a hiring sign at a restaurant, he jumps at the opportunity. Ben enjoys his new position, and he even begins to fall for Liam, one of the chefs. As he begins to succeed at his job and get along with the restaurant staff, Ben is torn between staying and continuing to pursue his dreams as a writer. From Mexican-American food journalist and writer Jarret Melendez, food and its cultural significance are an integral part of all of Melendez’s work.
The Low, Low Woods by Carmen Maria Machado and Illustrated by DaNi and Tamra Bonvillain
From the acclaimed author of In the Dream House, The Low, Low Woods is Carmen Maria Machado’s first foray into the graphic novel genre. El and Octavia live in Shudder-to-Think, Pennsylvania, a dangerous and mysterious town full of supernatural oddities. One day, El and Octavia awake in a movie theater with no memory of the past few hours, a phenomenon that has plagued many women in Shudder-to-Think. The two best friends embark on a horrifying journey to uncover the mysteries of their town through a queer, feminist lens.
Bright World by Stan Stanley
Amparo is a queer teen from Queens who makes an ill-fated deal with a talking cat. Amparo thought that just a drop of blood and their name would secure their status as a better person. However, the cat steals their body, and Amparo’s spirit is left stuck in Bright World, a supernatural land full of flesh-eating creatures. Amparo must summon the courage and cleverness to escape, all without becoming a monster just like the rest of them. Meanwhile, fellow student Iolanthe suspects something is wrong and turns to a medium from a lesbian mafia to uncover the truth about Bright World and what happened to Amparo. With bright, whimsical illustrations, readers will become immersed in Bright World and all of the funny and terrifying events that happen there.
Gay Giant by Gabriel Ebensperger
Chilean writer Gabriel Ebensperger’s graphic memoir Gay Giant tells the story of his upbringing as a queer boy growing up in the 1990s. This empowering story shows some of the hardships Ebensperger faced and how he eventually accepted his identity, despite bullying and deep insecurity. This memoir includes vibrant, pink drawings that highlight Ebensperger’s feelings that he was different from other kids. Peppered with pop culture references, this story will especially appeal to ’90s kids and those who have struggled with their identities.
America Vol 1. The Life and Times of America Chavez Written by Gabby Rivera and Illustrated by Joe Quiñonès, Ming Doyle, and Stacey Lee
The spunky, courageous, and butt-kicking America Chavez has taken down bad guys, fought aliens, and traveled across dimensions. But now she takes on her newest challenge – college. Unfortunately for America, college is a whole lot harder than difficult exams, annoying professors, and a messy dating scene. This is because her school is one specifically for those with superpowers. In addition to her studies, America must brave monsters who can traverse across multiple dimensions and a weird alien cult. Her biggest mission, though, is to join mentor Captain America on a trip back in time to the front lines of WWII to fight some nazis.
Fans of Marvel comics will recognize some fan-favorite characters, such as Peggy Carter, Storm, and Kate Bishop. But if you’re new to the comic scene, never fear! The beginning of a new series is a great place to start. It’s delightful, queer, and incorporates facets of America’s Puerto-Rican heritage into the story. Filled with colorful art and modern, witty dialogue, this fun story doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The Hills of Estrella Roja by Ashley Robin Franklin
Perfect for readers who like their stories to send a chill down their spine, this amusing graphic novel is dubbed a “queer horror romp.” It follows two girls who become increasingly drawn to each other as they investigate an occult mystery.
College freshman Kat Fields spends most of her time producing her podcast, Paranormal Texas, which explores the supernatural sides of her home, the Lone Star State. After receiving a bizarre, cryptic email urging her to travel to the little known town of Estrella Roja, she packs her bags immediately. There, she discovers a bizarre town with a history of witchcraft and other occult practices.
Marisol “Mari” Castillo is also headed there, attending the funeral of her abuela, whom she never really knew, after her mother fled Estrella Roja. Feeling lost and alone, she decides to aid Kat in her investigation after meeting her in a diner. Together, they work to uncover a dark legacy in the weird town that Mari’s family might just be connected to.
Franklin both writes and illustrates this story in her distinct, incredibly whimsical style, incorporating Mexican-American folklore, a touching lesbian love story, and a chilling paranormal mystery.
Frontera Written by Julio Anta and Illustrated by Jacoby Salcedo
After Mateo and his family are uprooted from their lives in Arizona and deported to Mexico, the teen boy is anxious to return to the life he once knew. In an act of boldness, he decides to brave the arduous journey across the Sonoran Desert. But when he narrowly escapes the clutches of border control, he finds himself stranded and alone in the desert without any resources. Fortunately, his fate takes a turn for the better when he finds an unlikely guide.
Guillermo was once in Mateo’s position. He is also a ghost, having been killed when trying to make the same journey. He now spends his afterlife helping migrants reach the U.S. border safely. Together, the pair embark on this dangerous trek, helping each other along the way. This emotional and deeply important story tackles the issue of inhumane immigration practices in the United States in a unique, fantastical style. It is enhanced by Salcedo’s gorgeous, brilliant artistic portrayals of the Sonoran Desert in all its beauty and danger.
Poder Trans Edited by Gaspar Aguierre
This Spanish-language graphic novel is an anthology collection of stories detailing the trans experience, written entirely by Latin American authors. It doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations, such as violence against the trans community and the complicated relationship many trans individuals have with their genitalia. It’s a wide-ranging work that contains humorous slice-of-life stories, science fiction tales, autobiographical narratives, and nonfiction glimpses of certain trans communities and activists. Throughout all of these stories, trans people and their experiences are at the center, and each one has distinct illustrations.
Northranger Written by Rey Terciero and Illustrated by Bre Indigo
Cade loves a good horror movie; he’s always down for a good scare. But living as a closeted Latino gay teen in the often unforgiving rural Texas brings a whole new level of fear into his life. Much to his dismay, Cade is shepherded off to work as a ranch hand during his summer. He’s just not cut out for ranch life, but one thing he enjoys about it is Henry. As the pair become closer, Cade begins to believe that the inscrutable, devastatingly attractive son of the ranch owner is hiding something, and Cade is determined to unpack the mystery surrounding the ranch and Henry’s family.
This queer and modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey brings all the spooky, romantic vibes readers know and love. It is also chock-full of horror references sure to excite fans of the genre. The beautiful art enhances the chilling atmosphere of the story and expertly transports readers to the mysterious Texas ranch.
¡Ay, Mija! by Christine Suggs
Christine Suggs is a biracial teen about to embark on a solo trip to Mexico to spend time with their family there. Between language barriers and culture shocks, they find it difficult to adjust to life in Mexico. As Christine begins following in their mother’s footsteps, visiting her favorite spots around her hometown, Christine becomes increasingly aware of the differences between their upbringings. Christine begins to immerse themselves in Mexican culture, sampling the cuisine and speaking the language, finally finding some normalcy in their Mexican identity.
But when their mother joins the trip, it brings up struggles over cultural barriers that remain for someone who is mixed race. This graphic novel grapples with differences in religion, sexuality, and tradition. Throughout, Christine must define and explore what being biracial means to them.
One unique feature of this graphic novel is that it’s bilingual, written in both Spanish and English. It enhances Christine’s disconnect when speaking with their family. The simple, colorful art makes for a heartfelt story all about identity.
It’s always important to diversify your TBR, not just in representation but also in the medium. These Hispanic LGBTQ+ graphic novels are a great way to do both! From superhero stories to non-fiction, there is something on this list for every type of reader to enjoy.
To discover some chilling and whimsical Hispanic myths, click here!
For some more Hispanic-centric stories, click here!
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2024 by EMMA KRUL
