Women in graphic novels have often been overlooked. And yet with the latest graphic novel releases from last year and this year (so far), women predominantly play a role. It may be because women are getting more attention as being smart, perseverant, self-aware and courageous. And while several of the women in these graphic novels are or become mothers, for most of these characters this is not their primary role in life. Their mission is rather to be their best selves, lift up their voices and speak out, and to chart their own path.
Some of these novels deal with issues of sexuality—“Ace of Hearts”, “Leo Rising” and “Cannon”, women grappling about how to define themselves and claim their own identity. Others, such as “I Am Their Silence”, “Buff Soul”, and “Breadcrumbs” touch on issues of mental health. Two in particular deal with actual people who used their power to help others, such as in “First Freedom” and “Audry Hepburn”. Others deal with horror themes and the inner strength of the protagonist to see them through the ordeal, such as “Mama Came Callin’” and “Pig Wife”.
But what struck me the most was that each one of these female protagonists tap on an inner strength to get them through whatever ordeal they face. And that is to our advantage as readers—to draw on their inner strength to learn how to claim our own. Seeing their own fortitude and courage is their gift to us to find inner strength and perseverance for whatever challenges we may face in life. Men stand aside—a new generation of women in graphic novels is waiting to be heard!
Highlighting women protagonists in graphic novels for 2025-2026.
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