If you’re a fan of graphic novels that tackle complex themes like identity, family, and history, then you might already be familiar with Kiku Hughes’ Displacement. This genre is particularly powerful because it blends visual storytelling with deep, emotional narratives. If you’re looking to dive into more graphic novels that offer a similar experience, here are 19 recommendations that you won’t want to miss.
Books Similar to Displacement
1. They Called Us Enemy
Written by George Takei, They Called Us Enemy recounts his childhood experiences in Japanese internment camps during World War II. This poignant memoir sheds light on a dark chapter in American history and is a must-read for those who appreciated the historical context in Displacement.
2. March: Book One
March: Book One by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell is a graphic novel that chronicles the early life of civil rights icon John Lewis. The book captures the struggle for racial equality and is both educational and inspiring, making it a great follow-up to Displacement.
3. Maus
Art Spiegelman’s Maus is a Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel that tells the harrowing story of his father’s experiences during the Holocaust. The use of anthropomorphic characters adds a unique layer to the storytelling, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical graphic novels.
4. Persepolis
Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis is an autobiographical graphic novel about her childhood and early adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. The book offers a personal perspective on a tumultuous period in history, much like Displacement does with Japanese internment.
5. American Born Chinese
Gene Luen Yang’s American Born Chinese explores themes of identity and self-acceptance through interwoven narratives. This graphic novel is both humorous and thought-provoking, making it a perfect recommendation for fans of Displacement.
6. Blankets
Craig Thompson’s Blankets is a deeply personal graphic novel that delves into themes of family, faith, and first love. The book’s emotional depth and beautiful artwork make it a compelling read for anyone who enjoyed the introspective nature of Displacement.
7. Fun Home
Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home is a memoir that explores her complex relationship with her father and her own coming out story. The book’s intricate narrative and emotional honesty make it a standout in the genre, much like Displacement.
8. The Best We Could Do
Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do is a graphic memoir that chronicles her family’s escape from Vietnam and their subsequent struggles as immigrants in America. The book’s focus on family and resilience makes it a great companion read to Displacement.
9. Stitches
David Small’s Stitches is a haunting memoir about his traumatic childhood and the medical issues he faced. The book’s raw emotional power and striking artwork make it a must-read for fans of deeply personal graphic novels like Displacement.
10. El Deafo
Cece Bell’s El Deafo is a heartwarming graphic memoir about growing up with hearing loss. The book’s humor and honesty make it an engaging read, especially for those who appreciate stories about overcoming personal challenges.
11. Anya’s Ghost
Vera Brosgol’s Anya’s Ghost is a supernatural graphic novel that explores themes of identity and belonging. The book’s unique blend of humor and spookiness makes it an enjoyable read for fans of Displacement.
12. Skim
Written by Mariko Tamaki and illustrated by Jillian Tamaki, Skim is a coming-of-age story that tackles issues like depression, sexuality, and friendship. The book’s nuanced portrayal of adolescence makes it a compelling read for those who enjoyed the emotional depth of Displacement.
13. The Complete Persepolis
The Complete Persepolis combines both volumes of Marjane Satrapi’s acclaimed graphic memoir. The book offers a comprehensive look at her life in Iran and abroad, making it a must-read for anyone interested in personal and historical narratives.
14. My Favorite Thing Is Monsters
Emil Ferris’ My Favorite Thing Is Monsters is a visually stunning graphic novel that blends mystery, horror, and historical fiction. The book’s unique art style and compelling story make it a standout in the genre, much like Displacement.
15. Good Talk
Mira Jacob’s Good Talk is a graphic memoir that uses a series of conversations to explore race, identity, and family. The book’s insightful and often humorous approach makes it a great read for fans of Displacement.
16. Spinning
Tillie Walden’s Spinning is a coming-of-age graphic memoir about her years as a competitive figure skater and her journey to self-acceptance. The book’s emotional honesty and beautiful artwork make it a compelling read for those who enjoyed Displacement.
17. The Arrival
Shaun Tan’s The Arrival is a wordless graphic novel that tells the story of an immigrant’s journey to a new land. The book’s stunning visuals and universal themes make it a powerful read for anyone interested in stories of displacement and belonging.
18. Honor Girl
Maggie Thrash’s Honor Girl is a graphic memoir about her teenage years at a summer camp and her first love. The book’s candid and heartfelt storytelling makes it an engaging read for fans of Displacement.
19. On a Sunbeam
Tillie Walden’s On a Sunbeam is a beautifully illustrated graphic novel that combines science fiction with themes of love and identity. The book’s imaginative world and emotional depth make it a standout in the genre, much like Displacement.