The hottest Graphic novels Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

21st century books with pictures

Austin Kleon • 3457 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Graphic novels
  1. Graphic novels are becoming a popular and important form of literature in the 21st century. They combine pictures and stories in a unique way.
  2. Books with illustrations can be just as impactful as traditional novels and can stretch the boundaries of what a book can be. Many authors are blending text and visuals creatively.
  3. Lists of the best books often spark discussions and differing opinions. People appreciate sharing their favorites and what they feel might have been overlooked.

Immigrant memoir comics!

Noahpinion • 13706 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Graphic novels
  1. Immigrant memoir comics offer a unique, personal glimpse into the experiences of immigrants, often presenting their stories in a relatable and engaging way through illustrations. They can show different perspectives, from those who thrive in America to those facing challenges.
  2. Many of these comics highlight the complexities of assimilation and identity while providing insight into the immigrant journey. They often balance humor and serious themes, helping readers understand both the struggles and joys of immigrant life.
  3. Reading these memoirs can be a quick and accessible way to gain empathy and knowledge about the diverse immigrant experiences, especially in today’s political climate where such understanding is crucial.

Blockade: The Science and Ethics of Trade

Bet On It • 206 implied HN points • 01 Jan 26
💥 Comics Graphic novels
  1. A new non-fiction graphic novel about the science and ethics of trade is planned for Fall 2027.
  2. The project pairs prominent free-trade experts with a cartoonist and is being produced as part of a Cato Institute-backed series, with the team assembling quickly.
  3. The book will cover issues like trade deficits, protectionism, strategic trade, and the history and ethics of commerce, and the creators are asking for topic and imagery suggestions.

I Am Reopening to Queries on October 2

Agents and Books • 2083 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
📚 Literature Graphic novels
  1. Kate McKean is reopening to queries on October 2 after being closed for a while.
  2. She will be very selective in taking on new clients and wants to be excited about new books.
  3. She is looking for adult novels, non-fiction, graphic novels, and works for young adults and middle-grade readers.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

FISHFLIES, SWEET TOOTH, TENEMENT AND MORE!

Tales From the Farm • 943 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Graphic novels
  1. Jeff Lemire's new project 'Fishflies' will launch in print from Image Comics starting in July, with each issue being giant-sized at 56 pages.
  2. Lemire will be doing signings in Toronto, Vancouver, Chicago, and more, along with appearances at events like San Diego Comic Con and the Thought Bubble Festival.
  3. The next book in the Bone Orchard universe called 'Tenement' will launch in June, connecting the pieces from previous stories.

Creator Interview: Abel García

Pizza Party • 28 implied HN points • 21 Jan 26
💥 Comics Graphic novels
  1. Comics are a way to make imagined worlds feel real by combining art and storytelling, and that mix can turn curiosity into a need to create.
  2. Clarity is the most important thing in sequential art — guide the reader’s eye, control rhythm, and make every panel have a purpose so the story never feels confusing.
  3. Writers should think visually: don’t overload panels with dialogue, give artists space for beats, and use small visual or narrative links plus smart page turns to keep the story flowing and landing emotionally.

Processing: How Mattie Lubchansky Wrote and Illustrated Simplicity

Counter Craft • 204 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
📚 Literature Graphic novels
  1. The author prefers to complete each part of their book process in full before moving on, finding it easier to make changes in the script than in the illustrations later on.
  2. Simplicity explores real-world issues through a science fiction lens, using themes like political separatism and community living to address societal challenges.
  3. Queerness plays a vital role in the book, reflecting skepticism about current systems and emphasizing community care while connecting to the way the story is told.

Comics from 1977/07 Issue of ROM

Computer Ads from the Past • 256 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
💥 Comics Graphic novels
  1. The article shares comics from a July 1977 issue of ROM magazine, which is a fun way to look back at the past. It's interesting to see how comics used to look and what stories were popular back then.
  2. Readers are encouraged to comment on what computer ads they would like to see in the future. This invites interaction and gives people a chance to express their ideas.
  3. The post is meant to be shared with friends and family, promoting a sense of community around nostalgia and retro content. It's nice when people share things they enjoy with others.

A Moment of Triumph

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 1402 implied HN points • 25 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Graphic novels
  1. The author shares their first success in building a large subscriber base for their publication.
  2. The author discusses the challenges of making a living through their creative work and the need to diversify income sources.
  3. The author introduces their new tabletop role-playing game, highlighting its extensive content and inviting support through a Kickstarter campaign.

Creator Interview: Javi Martinez

Pizza Party • 56 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
💥 Comics Graphic novels
  1. Javi thinks that every comic script is unique and his writing process adapts with each project. He used to write prose first but now enjoys storyboarding more.
  2. Having conversations about tough topics, like the connection between religion and politics, is really important. Javi believes we should listen and understand each other instead of just arguing.
  3. Art can be fun and doesn't always need a deep message. Sometimes, it's just about telling a silly story and enjoying creativity, like his parody on Evil Dead.

The 2026 Belt Publishing Catalog

Notes from a Small Press • 12 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
📚 Literature Graphic novels
  1. Belt Publishing is releasing more reissues of overlooked books in 2026, focusing on titles with connections to the Midwest. This includes notable works by authors like Susan Glaspell and Frank Norris.
  2. The 50 Maps series is also expanding, with new titles showcasing cities like Boston and Minneapolis-St. Paul. These books aim to offer unique perspectives on these locations.
  3. They are continuing their Notches series of short nonfiction books, with upcoming titles covering topics from work stories to estate sales. This series has been popular and recognized with awards, highlighting its value.

Processing: How David Small Illustrated and Wrote The Werewolf at Dusk

Counter Craft • 168 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Graphic novels
  1. David Small creates art that shows big feelings and fears, often inspired by monster movies he loved as a kid. He relates to the giant creatures and uses them to express those feelings in his work.
  2. When deciding on colors and styles for his illustrations, he chooses what fits the mood of each story. For example, he picked bright colors for one story to match its lively vibe, while another used darker colors to create a more serious tone.
  3. Small emphasizes that in graphic novels, visuals are very important. Writers need to trust artists to bring their stories to life without over-directing them.

Can a Graphic Novel Change Housing Policy?

Bet On It • 80 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Graphic novels
  1. Graphic novels can influence important topics like housing policy. They make complex ideas easier to understand with visuals.
  2. Lower housing costs often get overlooked because people focus on less important concerns. It's important to address what truly matters.
  3. Using engaging media like podcasts can help share and discuss these ideas effectively with a wider audience.

HYBRED: A Graphic Novel

Journal of Free Black Thought • 5 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Graphic novels
  1. The graphic novel 'HYBRED' is set in a dystopian version of Los Angeles. It shows a grim future that is similar to the author's own experiences.
  2. Jamie Mustard, the creator, wrote and directed the novel, and worked with artist Francesca Filomena for the illustrations. They made the artwork together in a small town in Southern Italy.
  3. The first ten pages of 'HYBRED' give readers a sneak peek into its unique world. The book is just released and aims to impress its audience.

What Have I Been Reading This Year?

Barbarian Grunge • 44 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
📚 Literature Graphic novels
  1. The author read and studied various types of content over the past year including graphic novels, video games, screenplays, novels, nonfiction, TV & film, short stories, poems, and for fun
  2. The author found inspiration from the works they read, learning from different genres and styles to enhance their writing
  3. Many of the works the author read were by well-known writers such as Frank Miller, Alan Moore, Stephen King, and Warren Ellis, among others

Creator Interview: Amal Desai

Pizza Party • 0 implied HN points • 18 Feb 26
💥 Comics Graphic novels
  1. Perfectionism is a constant battle and often leads to obsessing over tiny details even when you want to work faster.
  2. Lettering should be intentional and match the artwork and tone; big logo-style name plates make character entrances feel bombastic and memorable.
  3. Rooting fiction in lesser-known historical facts can add depth and quietly teach readers, and for new creators the path is clear: learn from experienced resources, start making work, and hire (and pay) collaborators for skills you lack.