List Procedures

For the purpose of the committee, graphic novels are defined to include trade compilations and original works published in a sequential art format. Such titles should incorporate acceptable literary and artistic quality with the effectiveness of the presentation. 

• The book’s content must be relevant to readers in grades 6-12.

• The book must be relevant in subject, language, and age.

• The book must have literary merit and wide appeal.

• The TMGNRL is intended for recreational reading and is not to be restricted to supporting a specific curriculum. The list as a whole seeks balance in genre, gender appeal, interest, subject, and difficulty.

• Books published in the 2 years before the publication of the list.

• Books with published scholarly reviews or peer reviews are preferred. Books for which no reviews are available may be considered at the committee’s discretion.

• A previous nomination may not be reconsidered.

• Though graphic novels need not be published in the United States, they must be widely available for purchase in the U.S. at the time of consideration.

• Reissues will be considered if there has been a significant change to the original content of the work since the first issue. Whether or not the changes are significant enough is ultimately determined by the Chair.

• Collections of comic strips will be considered only if they contain an overarching storyline.

A nomination link will be placed on the the Maverick Reading List page on the TXLA website starting on Jan. 1st of each year. The nomination window closes on Sept. 30th.