Graphic novels are the perfect way to get disinterested readers to pick up a book.
Have you ever struggled to get your kid to read?
While reading might come naturally to some children, it’s fair to say that most kids need a bit of encouragement.
Whether your kid struggles with reading and writing or simply isn’t interested, graphic novels just might be your answer. Read on for our picks of the best graphic novels for reluctant readers!
Detective Beans Series, Li Chen
Recommended for readers aged 7+
Cat Town's best kitten detective is on the case in this hilarious and ridiculously cute graphic novel series for junior readers! Detective Beans is available 24/7* for all your mystery solving and ice-cream taste testing needs. Solving all the mysteries that you need solved, and even the ones you don’t need solved. He’s that good.
*Except on school days, and after bedtime.
Unfairies, Huw Aaron
Recommended for readers aged 7-12
Some stories will tell you fairies are sweet, kind, magical creatures.
Well, those stories are WRONG. It’s time everyone knew the TRUTH! Fairies are sneaky, cunning and about as magical as slugs.
Join our impulsive, hilarious and somewhat surprising hero Pip on a breakneck adventure among the warring unfairy tribes of The Garden.
The Far Out Five, Olaf Falafel
Recommended for readers aged 6+
One funfair, a group of kids and one grumpy amateur magician... plus one magical mega tornado equals The Far-Out Five! Stewart, Sophie, Zainab and Jeffrey - and the Great Waldini - are magically transformed into strange creatures and whisked far away from home – and the wand that could change them back is LOST!
Percy Jackson Series, Rick Riordan
Recommended for readers aged 12+
Dive into the bestselling Percy Jackson and the Olympians series – in graphic novel form! If your kid loves mythology and monsters, then they will be obsessed with Percy Jackson. Following a half-blood demigod son of a Greek God and a mortal, Percy will have to swap skateboards for swords in an adventure to save the world. Best of all, once your kid has been sucked into the world of Percy Jackson, odds are they’ll want to keep reading, and luckily, there are so many more Percy Jackson books and graphic novels to choose from.
Discover some of the best vampire books – from paranormal to gothic and beyond.
Learn about the inspiration behind debut authors’ first novels.
Do you know a young reader who loves the Lottie Brooks series? We want to hear from them!
Penguin Random House is delighted to announce that Jacinda Ardern will be doing three book events in New Zealand in April and May.
They've closed the final Percy Jackson book. Now what?
Easter is coming up, and once the novelty of chocolate wears off, older kids still need something to sink their teeth into.
See the Penguin Random House NZ books shortlisted for the 2026 NZ Booklovers Awards
Easter fun with Bluey! Whether you're a fan of quizzes, crafts, colouring, or biscuit decorating, we've rounded up the best Easter activities so you and your little ones can celebrate Easter with their favourite, Bluey!
So, you’ve watched a particular hockey romance series that left you wanting more? You’ve come to the right place. After all, every great series is based on an even better book.
Cath, our Penguin NZ Children's Publisher on what makes STEPPING UP by David Hill a very special book
