For immediate release | February 2, 2021

Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table Announces 2020 Best Graphic Novels for Adults Reading List Titles

91´«Ã½

91´«Ã½’s Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table (GNCRT) is thrilled to announce the . The best Graphic Novels for Adults reading list highlights the best graphic novels for adults published in late 2019 and throughout 2020 and it aims increase awareness of the graphic novel medium, raise voices of diverse comics creators, and aid library staff in the development of graphic novel collections. The 2020 BGNA Top Ten list features such titles as: “Big Black: Stand at Attica” by Frank "Big Black" Smith, Jared Reinmuth, Améziane, “Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio” by Derf Backderf, and “Something is Killing the Children, Vol. 1” by James Tynion IV, Werther Dell'Edera.

The Selection Committee is made up of GNCRT members with a background in graphic novel selection and use for adults. Jessica Jenner, chair of the selection committee said “During a difficult year, the committee members and I worked diligently to establish a well-rounded and diverse list - there is something for everyone in this list, from slice of life to horror. Capturing perspectives of LGBTQIA+, African, Asian, Native American and more, this list is intended to uplift not only the comics medium, but traditionally under-represented voices.”

The complete , including a Top Ten, is available online. GNCRT President-Elect Matthew Noe said of the new list "While the growth of comics for children and young adults has received well-deserved praise and attention across 91´«Ã½, the same hasn't held true for adult comics. I'm thrilled that the GNCRT is now addressing that gap with the launch of this list! I look forward to the continuation and growth of this work within the round table. Not only will the Best Graphic Novels for Adults list continue in the years to come, but we are also continuing our collaboration with the Black Caucus of the 91´«Ã½ in creating a series of Black Lives Matter Comics Reading Lists – highlighting and celebrating Black creators and stories in comics”

Nominations for the 2021 Best Graphic Novel for Adults Reading List are now open.

Nominations are sought for the 2021 BGNA reading list. Ms. Jenner, who is remaining as committee chair for the 2021 BGNA list, encouraged library workers and members of the public to submit titles for nomination, “The 2020 Best Graphic Novels Adult Selection List is only the start. As the word spreads about the list and more nominations are sent in, the more dynamic this list will become!”

Eligible graphic novels for the 2021 Best Graphic Novels for Adults will include all fiction and non-fiction titles published between September 1, 2020 - December 31, 2021 that appeal to adults age 19 or older. Nominations can be made by all members of the public, including committee members, library workers, educators, and comics fans though the on the GNCRT website.

Publishers and creators are welcome to submit copies of titles to the committee for review, though they are not eligible to nominate their own titles for consideration. For more information on how to submit review copies please contact GNCRT staff liaison, Tina Coleman at ccoleman@ala.org .

About the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table

The of the 91´«Ã½ is dedicated to supporting library staff in all aspects of engaging with graphic novels and comics, including collection development, programming, and advocacy. For more information connect with GNCRT on Facebook: 91´«Ã½ Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table; Twitter: @libcomix; Instagram: @libcomix; or the GNCRT 91´«Ã½ Connect page.

About 91´«Ã½

Established in 1876, the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization created to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

Contact:

Tina Coleman

Staff Liaison

91´«Ã½

Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table

ccoleman@ala.org

312.280.2152