The Transformative Power of Graphic Novels for Kids

This is a free event, but registration is required.

Graphic novels for young audiences of all ages—from beginning readers to sophisticated teenagers—have become the fastest growing sector of publishing. Our panel of graphic novelists will explore what makes them so powerful, and so popular, and will reveal the challenges and joys of their creative process.

Jarrett J. Krosoczka, author of the National Book Award finalist YA memoir about the complexities of family addiction, Hey, Kiddo, as well as the Lunch Lady series for younger readers, will lead the conversation. He will be joined by Jennifer and Matthew Holm, author and illustrator, respectively, of the Babymouse series for very young readers about a spirited, imaginative mouse managing school, friendships, and daily life, and the popular middle-grade Sunny series; Huda Fahmy, author/illustrator of Yes, I’m Hot in This and Huda F Wants to Know?, novels that explore identity and coming-of-age as a Muslim-American teenager; and Robin Ha, author/illustrator of the Korean folklore-reimagining The Fox Maidens, as well as the memoir Almost American Girl, which looks at immigration and feminism via her Korean heritage.

The 2026 PEN World Voices Festival is a celebration of world literature and free expression. The 2026 edition will be the 21st World Voices Festival. Over four days, more than 140 writers from 40 countries will be featured in 40+ engaging talks, panels, readings, and activations in New York City and greater Los Angeles.

Visit for more information about the entire festival, as well as PEN America.

The LGBT Center is a fully accessible venue.

ASL interpretation is available for this event by request only. Please reach out to our Box Office team at [email protected] by April 15th to request.

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Host or Publisher PEN America