You made it through another year, and given the kind of years we’ve been having, that’s not nothing. Let’s celebrate the good parts of 2023 — namely, the comics we got to read!
It’s happening, readers — we’re bringing paperbacks! Whether you (or a reader you know and love) hate carrying around bulky hardcovers, you’re on a budget, you want a wider range of recommendations, or all of the above, you can now get a paperback subscription from TBR, curated just for you by one of our Bibliologists. The holidays are here, and we’ve got three different levels for gifting (to yourself or others) to suit every budget. Get all the details at mytbr.co.
Bookish Goods
Used English Manga Mystery Box by TheMagesEmporium
Why not end the year by giving some gently used books a home and going on a date with some manga? $20
Eileen’s Favorite Reads of 2023
That’s right, instead of spotlighting new releases or themed Riot Recommendations, I’m going to share with you four of my favorite comics that I read this year. To be clear, these weren’t published in 2023; I just happened to read or reread them this year and wanted to share (or re-share) them with you!
Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu
I read the entire webcomic online years ago, but this was the year I finally bought the second volume after leaving Volume One languishing alone on my shelf for too long. I am delighted to report that this comic, about a figure skater joining his college hockey team and falling in love with its troubled captain, remains disgustingly adorable.
Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte and Ann Xu
How is this so cute! How! Cici is a little girl who has just moved from Taiwan to America and is having trouble fitting in. She wants more than anything to celebrate her grandma’s birthday together, but how can she earn the money for her grandma’s plane ticket? Enter a cooking contest, of course! I thought the ending was a bit abrupt, but other than that, flawless.
Far Sector by N.K. Jemisin and Jamal Campbell
I originally read this on DC Universe Infinite and was so blown away by the characters, the art, the world-building, and the complex murder plot that I was compelled to buy a physical copy. Introducing Jo Mullein as a badass new Green Lantern, Far Sector is how all superhero comics should be.
Miss Quinces by Kat Fajardo
Finally, this is another adorable comic that highlights another culture. The last thing Sue wants is to have a quinceañera celebration, where she has to wear a poofy dress, dance, and give speeches. But when her mother says she will finally let Sue go to camp with her friends if she goes through with it, Sue reluctantly does so and ends up learning a lot about tradition, family, and herself.
Most of my faves this year were pretty bright and happy, and I hope they cheer you up a little too as we close out the year. If the comics aren’t your bag, I hope this picture of my dog Poppy nomming on one of her favorite toys will do the trick. Catch you next year, nerd friends!
~Eileen