Phil Treagus-EvansAre you tired of reading dry and boring non-fiction books? Look no further, because the best non-fiction graphic novels are here to change the game! These innovative works combine the power of illustration with the depth of information, making learning about real-life events and ideas more engaging and exciting than ever before.
From historical events to scientific discoveries, non-fiction graphic novels cover a wide range of topics in a visually stunning and easy-to-digest format. Whether you’re a history buff, science enthusiast, or just looking for a new way to expand your knowledge, non-fiction graphic novels offer something for everyone. So grab a copy and dive into a world of information, presented in a way that will leave you wanting more.
Here are the best non-fiction graphic novels…
The Art of War
The Art of War by Sun Tzu and Pete Katz is an entertaining and insightful graphic adaptation of one of the oldest and most revered military treatises in the world. Written by ancient Chinese general Sun Tzu, The Art of War is a philosophical discussion on military strategy and tactics that has been studied and referenced for centuries. In this graphic novel adaptation, award-winning illustrator Pete Katz brings the text to life through vibrant and detailed battle scenes that help readers understand and engage with the principles outlined in the text.
The graphic novel follows a teacher as they instruct a pupil on the main points of Sun Tzu’s treatise. The narrative is interspersed with full-color illustrations that bring the concepts of planning, tactics, maneuvering, and spying to life. The illustrations bring a new level of understanding to the principles outlined in the text, making it more accessible and engaging for readers. The book is also a collectible thread-bound edition, making it a beautiful addition to any library or collection.
The Art of War by Sun Tzu and Pete Katz is a must-read for anyone interested in military strategy or history. The combination of Sun Tzu’s timeless principles and Pete Katz’s stunning illustrations make this graphic novel a standout in the world of non-fiction. It’s a creative and engaging way to understand one of the most important texts in military history, and its inclusion on any list of the best non-fiction graphic novels is well deserved.
Queer: A Graphic History
Queer: A Graphic History by Meg-John Barker and Jules Scheele is a groundbreaking and thought-provoking non-fiction graphic novel that shines a light on the history of queer thought and LGBTQ+ action. Activist-academic Meg-John Barker and cartoonist Jules Scheele team up to explore the complexities of sex, gender, and sexuality, and how these ideas have been understood and challenged throughout history.
The book delves into the intricacies of identity politics and gender roles, and how these ideas are intertwined with culture, biology, psychology, and sexology. It also explores how key figures, such as Alfred Kinsey and Judith Butler, have shifted our understanding of what is considered “normal” and how these ideas have been disputed and challenged. The book also examines the representation of queer characters in pop culture, such as the play Wicked and moments in Casino Royale.
Queer: A Graphic History is presented in a brilliant and engaging style, making it a unique and accessible introduction to the universe of queer thinking. The combination of Meg-John Barker’s insightful and informative writing and Jules Scheele’s witty and captivating illustrations makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of sex, gender, and sexuality. With its ability to change the way one thinks about these issues, this book is a worthy addition to any list of the best non-fiction graphic novels.
March: Book One
March: Book One is a groundbreaking graphic-novel memoir by Congressman John Lewis, Andrew Aydin and Nate Powell. This #1 New York Times bestseller, Coretta Scott King Honor book, and Robert F. Kennedy Book Award winner is now available in an oversized hardcover edition, allowing the stunning artwork of Lewis, Aydin, and Powell to be appreciated on an even grander scale.
This memoir is a vivid first-hand account of John Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation. Rooted in Lewis’ personal story, it also reflects on the highs and lows of the broader civil rights movement. Book One spans John Lewis’ youth in rural Alabama, his life-changing meeting with Martin Luther King Jr, the birth of the Nashville Student Movement, and their battle to tear down segregation through nonviolent lunch counter sit-ins, building to a stunning climax on the steps of City Hall.
March: Book One is a powerful and evocative work that brings to life the struggle for civil rights in America. The graphic novel format allows for a unique and immersive experience, allowing readers to see and feel the events as they unfold. Praised by President Bill Clinton, LeVar Burton and Tim Cook, this modern classic is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on America. The fact that it has been used as a required text in classrooms across the US further solidifies its place as one of the best non-fiction graphic novels.
Sapiens: A Graphic History Vol. 1
Sapiens: A Graphic History Vol. 1 by Yuval Noah Harari is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history of humankind. This graphic novel adaptation of Harari’s bestselling book is a New York Times bestseller and was recommended by President Barack Obama and Bill Gates. The book is a combination of full-color illustrations and easy-to-comprehend text that is suitable for both adult and young adult readers.
The graphic novel explores the question of what happened to the other species of humans that inhabited Earth 100,000 years ago, and what may happen to us. It tells the story of humankind’s creation and evolution, and examines the ways in which biology and history have defined us and enhanced our understanding of what it means to be human. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the role evolving humans have played in the global ecosystem to charting the rise of empires, and challenges readers to reconsider accepted beliefs and connect past developments with contemporary concerns.
Sapiens: A Graphic History Vol. 1 is a perfect way to introduce Harari’s ideas to a wide new readership. The graphic novel format makes it an engaging and accessible read that is able to capture the attention of a diverse audience. It is a book that is not only informative but also visually stunning, making it a standout among the best non-fiction graphic novels.
The Madhouse Effect
The Madhouse Effect is a non-fiction graphic novel written by award-winning climate scientist Michael E. Mann and Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Tom Toles. The book is a powerful and insightful look into the world of climate denialism and the ways in which business and political interests have manipulated the media to further their own agenda. Mann and Toles have been on the front lines of the fight against climate denialism for most of their careers and their experiences have been invaluable in the creation of this book.
What makes The Madhouse Effect one of the best non-fiction graphic novels is its unique combination of expert science communication and engaging political cartoons. Mann’s expertise in the field of climate science provides a solid foundation for the book, while Toles’ political cartoons bring a new level of understanding to the subject matter. The synergy of these two authors’ skills creates a book that is both informative and entertaining, making it an easy and enjoyable read for anyone interested in the topic of climate change.
One of the most striking aspects of The Madhouse Effect is the way in which it exposes the fallacies and intellectual pretzels that denialists use to explain away the overwhelming evidence that human activity has changed the Earth’s climate. Toles’ cartoons are particularly effective in this regard, as they bring to light the underlying biases and flawed logic that underpins the arguments of climate deniers. Mann’s expert skills in science communication aim to restore sanity to a debate that has become increasingly polarized, making this book an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complex issues surrounding climate change.
World War One: 1914-1918
World War One: 1914-1918 is a non-fiction graphic novel written by Alan Cowsill that provides a comprehensive and engaging look at one of the most significant events of the 20th century. The book covers the period of the Great War from the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo to the Treaty of Versailles and provides a detailed and evocative look at the war through the eyes of the young conscripted servicemen on all sides of the conflict.
One of the best things about World War One: 1914-1918 is the way it brings history to life. Using a combination of illustrations and text, the book provides a vivid and immersive look at the war and its impact on the soldiers and civilians who lived through it. The book provides a close look at the first modern war of the 20th century and covers the advent of tanks, airplanes, air raids, submarines and gas attacks. The illustrations and text work together to give readers a sense of what life was like in the trenches, on the home front, at sea and in the air.
Another great feature of World War One: 1914-1918 is the way it follows the fortunes of a group of young conscripts and volunteers. The book provides an intimate and personal look at what life was really like in the trenches and how soldiers coped with returning home after the horrors of the front line. The book provides an honest and unflinching look at the human cost of war and its impact on soldiers, civilians and society as a whole. It’s not just a history book, it’s a fully illustrated journey into another age, and it’s perfect for those who want to learn about WW1 in a more engaging way.
Pinball: A Graphic History of the Silver Ball
Pinball: A Graphic History of the Silver Ball is a non-fiction graphic novel written by Jon Chad that provides a comprehensive and engaging look at the history of pinball – one of the most captivating, capricious, and at times infuriating games of all time. The book covers the roots of pinball back to the Court of King Louis XIV, through the immigrant experience of early 20th century America, the post-War boom and bust, right up to the present day.
One of the best things about Pinball: A Graphic History of the Silver Ball is the way it illustrates the little-known story of pinball – how it works and why it all matters in an age of special effects and on-screen gaming. The book uses a combination of illustrations and text to provide an immersive look at the history of pinball and its impact on American culture. The book covers the history, artistry, cultural significance, and even the physics of the game, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of pinball or gaming in general.
Another great feature of Pinball: A Graphic History of the Silver Ball is the way it opens with the story of champion player Roger Sharpe and his efforts to prove that pinball was a game of skill rather than chance in a Manhattan courtroom in 1976. This provides an interesting and engaging way to start the book and sets the stage for the rest of the story. The book also covers the many facets of this most American of pursuits, capturing not just the history but also the artistry, cultural significance, and even the physics of the game. This makes the book a charming and entertaining read for anyone interested in pinball or the history of gaming.
On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century is a non-fiction graphic novel written by historian Timothy Snyder and illustrated by renowned illustrator Nora Krug. The book is a graphic edition of Snyder’s New York Times bestseller that uses the darkest moments in twentieth-century history, from Nazism to Communism, to teach twenty lessons on resisting modern-day authoritarianism.
One of the best things about On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century is the way it provides a clear and concise guide to resisting authoritarianism in an engaging and visually striking format. Snyder’s lessons on resisting modern-day authoritarianism are presented in an easy-to-understand format and are accompanied by Nora Krug’s evocative illustrations, which help to bring the ideas to life in a new and powerful way. The book is a quick-read pocket guide of lessons, but it’s also a visually striking rumination that emphasizes the importance of being active, conscious, and deliberate participants in resistance.
Another great feature of On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century is the way it covers a wide range of topics, from the importance of being aware of how symbols used today could affect tomorrow, to the importance of researching everything for yourself and to the fullest extent, to the importance of using personalized and individualized speech rather than clichéd phrases for the sake of mass appeal. The book provides a wide range of practical advice and tips that can be applied to everyday life, making it an essential guide for anyone interested in understanding and resisting the forces of authoritarianism. The illustrations by Nora Krug bring a new level of understanding to the subject matter and makes the book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex issues surrounding authoritarianism.
The Black Panther Party
The Black Panther Party is a non-fiction graphic novel written by David F. Walker and illustrated by Marcus Kwame Anderson. The book is a bold and fascinating graphic novel history of the revolutionary Black Panther Party, a radical political organization that stood in defiant contrast to the mainstream civil rights movement. The book explores the impact and significance of the Panthers, from their social, educational, and healthcare programs that were designed to uplift the Black community to their battle against police brutality through citizen patrols and frequent clashes with the FBI, which targeted the Party from its outset.
One of the best things about The Black Panther Party is the way it uses dramatic comic book-style retellings and illustrated profiles of key figures to capture the major events, people, and actions of the party, as well as their cultural and political influence and enduring legacy. The illustrations by Marcus Kwame Anderson add an extra layer of depth and understanding to the story, making it an engaging and informative read for anyone interested in the history of the Black Panther Party or civil rights movement. The book is a winner of the Eisner Award.
Another great feature of The Black Panther Party is the way it provides a comprehensive look at the history of the Black Panther Party and its impact on the civil rights movement. The book covers the founding of the party in Oakland, California, in 1966 and traces its history through to its eventual decline in the 1970s. The book also covers the party’s social, educational, and healthcare programs that were designed to uplift the Black community, as well as their battle against police brutality through citizen patrols and frequent clashes with the FBI. This makes the book an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the history and legacy of the Black Panther Party.
Teddy: Dead Reckoning
Teddy: Dead Reckoning is a non-fiction graphic novel written by Eryck Tait and illustrated by Laurence Luckinbill. The book is a powerful and moving look at the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest presidents, Theodore Roosevelt. The book explores the many accomplishments of Teddy Roosevelt, ranging from charging up San Juan Hill in Cuba as commander of the Rough Riders, to facing down U.S. corporate monopolies, to launching the Great White Fleet, building the Panama Canal, and the preservation of hundreds of millions of acres of natural American beauty.
One of the best things about Teddy: Dead Reckoning is the way it uses powerful illustrations and storytelling to bring the life and legacy of Teddy Roosevelt to life. The illustrations by Laurence Luckinbill are evocative and emotionally charged, and they help to bring the story to life in a new and powerful way. The book also provides a detailed and comprehensive look at the life and legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, making it an essential read for anyone interested in American history or the life of one of America’s greatest presidents.
Another great feature of Teddy: Dead Reckoning is the way it explores the human side of Theodore Roosevelt, revealing how even the greatest of men is still just a man, and how even the most modest man can grow to be great. The book covers the story of July 1918, when Teddy Roosevelt receives the telegram that all parents of children who serve in war fear most: His son Quentin’s plane has been shot down in a dogfight over France. His fate is unknown. Despite rising fear for his youngest son, Teddy takes the stage to speak to his beloved fellow citizens. It is, he says, “my simple duty.” But the speech evolves from politics and the war, into an examination of his life, the choices he’s made, and the costs of his “Warrior Philosophy.” It makes the book a powerful and emotional read for anyone interested in understanding the human side of one of America’s greatest leaders.
What Unites Us
What Unites Us is a non-fiction graphic novel written by Dan Rather, Elliot Kirschner and illustrated by Tim Foley. The book is an adaptation of Rather’s bestselling collection of essays and provides a powerful and thought-provoking look at what it means to be a true patriot.
One of the best things about What Unites Us is the way it uses stunning illustrations by Tim Foley to bring the story to life in a new and powerful way. The illustrations are vivid and evocative and they help to convey the ideas and themes of the book in a new and engaging way. The book also provides a unique perspective on the building blocks of this country, from the freedoms that define us, to the values that have transformed us, to the institutions that sustain us. Rather’s vast experience and his unique perspective as one of America’s most renowned newscasters shed light on who we were and who we are today, allowing us to see a possible future, where we are one country; united.
Another great feature of What Unites Us is the way it provides a voice of reason and explores what it means to be a true patriot. The book is written by Dan Rather, one of America’s most renowned newscasters, and this gives the book a level of authority and credibility that is hard to match. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the freedoms that define us to the values that have transformed us, and it provides a thought-provoking and informative read for anyone interested in understanding the true meaning of patriotism. The book also allows us to see a possible future, where we are one country; united and that makes it a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what it means to be an American.
They Changed the World: Copernicus-Bruno-Galileo
They Changed the World: Copernicus-Bruno-Galileo is a non-fiction graphic novel written by Rick Hoskin and illustrated by Naresh Kumar. This graphic novel is a part of the Campfire Graphic Novels series, which has published more than 70 titles since their introduction to North America in 2010 and the line continues to grow at a steady pace, with a range of offerings that is expanding.
One of the best things about They Changed the World: Copernicus-Bruno-Galileo is the way it uses gorgeous, sophisticated artwork and lush production values to tell the story. The illustrations by Naresh Kumar are vivid and evocative and they help to convey the ideas and themes of the book in a new and engaging way. The artwork and production values are a standout feature of the book, making it a visually striking and memorable read.
Another great feature of They Changed the World: Copernicus-Bruno-Galileo is the way it tells the life stories of three great minds, Copernicus, Bruno and Galileo, their great breakthroughs and their final years. The book covers a wide range of topics, from science to religion, from brave individuals to a powerful institution and ultimately it’s about mankind as a species learning to grow up. This book is about how humanity had to learn its own small place in the vast universe and how it is a pivotal moment in history. The book is informative and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history of science and religion.
Hawking
Hawking is a non-fiction graphic novel written by Jim Ottaviani and illustrated by Layland Myrick. This graphic novel is a follow-up to their New York Times-bestselling graphic novel Feynman, and it delivers a gripping biography of Stephen Hawking, one of the most important scientists of our time. The book covers the life of Stephen hawking from his early days at the St Albans School and Oxford, to his groundbreaking work in cosmology and theoretical physics, and to his rise to celebrity status.
One of the best things about Hawking is the way it captures the brilliance and good humor of Stephen hawking, his journey from being a lively and popular young man to becoming a pop-culture icon. The book also covers the impact of ALS, a degenerative neuromuscular disease, on his life and how he went on to do groundbreaking work in cosmology and theoretical physics for decades after being told he had only a few years to live. The book also explores his work on “A Brief History of Time” and how it brought his intimate understanding of the universe to the public.
Another great feature of Hawking is the way it explores the public figure and the man behind both identities. The book provides an intricate portrait of the great thinker, the public figure, and the man behind both identities. The artwork by Leland Myrick is also noteworthy, it helps to convey the ideas and themes of the book in a new and engaging way. The book is informative and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the life and work of Stephen hawking.
The Beats: A Graphic History
One of the reasons that The Beats: A Graphic History is considered one of the best non-fiction graphic novels is its ability to bring the Beat movement of the late 1940s and early 1950s back to life through artwork that is as vibrant as the movement itself. The book is written by comic legend Harvey Pekar, his frequent artistic collaborator Ed Piskor, and a range of artists and writers, including the feminist comic creator Trina Robbins and the Mad magazine artist Peter Kuper, which creates a dynamic and diverse perspective on the movement.
Another reason the book is so successful is the way it captures the spirit of the Beat generation in a way that is true to the era. The book takes the readers on a wild tour of the generation, providing a glimpse into the lives of the key figures of the Beat generation, including Kerouac, Ginsberg, and Burroughs, as well as lesser-known poets and writers. The book also captures the era in all its incarnations, from the Benzedrine-fueled antics of Kerouac, Ginsberg, and Burroughs to the painting sessions of Jay DeFeo’s disheveled studio, from the jazz hipsters to the beatnik chicks.
Lastly, the book is a brilliant collage and tribute to the Beat generation. The artwork, by Ed Piskor, is noteworthy, it helps to convey the ideas and themes of the book in a new and engaging way. The book is a striking anthology that captures the essence of the Beat generation and its enduring legacy in a way that is both informative and entertaining. The book is not only a historical document, but also a celebration of the spirit of rebellion and creativity that defined the Beat movement. The combination of Harvey Pekar’s writing, Ed Piskor’s artwork, and the contributions from other artists and writers, make The Beats: A Graphic History one of the best non-fiction graphic novels, as it brings this iconic movement to life in a unique and powerful way.
The Elements of Style Illustrated
The Elements of Style Illustrated is a refreshing take on the classic style guide written by William Strunk Jr and E. B. White. This much-loved book, now in its fourth edition, has become a staple for writers everywhere, with its mantra “make every word tell” still as relevant today as it was when it was first published. The book offers clear and concise advice on the basic principles of plain English, making it an essential guide for anyone looking to improve their writing skills.
One of the things that makes this edition of The Elements of Style stand out is the addition of fifty-seven exquisite illustrations by Maira Kalman. These illustrations bring a new level of energy and visual appeal to the book, making the learning experience more colorful and clear. Each illustration adds depth and meaning to the text, making it easier for readers to understand and remember the key concepts.
The Elements of Style Illustrated is not just a book for writers, it’s a book for anyone looking to improve their communication skills. The principles outlined in this guide can be applied to any form of writing, from emails to speeches, and everything in between. With its timeless advice, beautiful illustrations, and clear, concise writing, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their writing and make every word tell.
Why are Non-Fiction Graphic Novels a Great Tool for Learning?
Non-fiction graphic novels are a great tool for learning for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they provide a visually engaging way to learn about a wide range of topics. The use of illustrations and comics can help to make complex information more accessible and easier to understand. This can be particularly beneficial for visual learners who may struggle with traditional forms of learning, such as reading long blocks of text.
In addition to being visually engaging, non-fiction graphic novels also provide a unique way to experience historical events and learn about different cultures. The use of comics and illustrations allows readers to see the past and other cultures come to life in a way that traditional textbooks cannot. This can help to make learning more interactive and engaging, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Furthermore, non-fiction graphic novels can also be a great tool for learning because they often present information in a non-linear and non-chronological way. This can help readers to understand the connections between different events and ideas, and can help to make the information more relatable and memorable. This format can also be beneficial for readers who may have a hard time following a linear narrative, as it allows them to pick and choose what information they want to focus on.