If you enjoy reading books by Mariko Tamaki then you might also like the following authors:
Jillian Tamaki creates thoughtful and visually expressive graphic novels that explore identity, relationships, and everyday experiences. Her storytelling is sensitive and genuine, helping readers connect emotionally with characters who feel authentic and relatable.
In her book SuperMutant Magic Academy, she combines humor and sincerity to depict the coming-of-age struggles faced by young people, capturing both vulnerability and strength.
Tillie Walden's graphic novels have a contemplative and deeply personal feel. She often writes about friendship, identity, and the complexities of growing up. Her artistic style is soft yet powerful, creating emotional and atmospheric narratives.
In On a Sunbeam, Walden immerses readers in a beautiful space adventure and romantic journey about found family, love, and loss.
Rainbow Rowell focuses on character-driven stories with emotional depth, heartfelt warmth, and sharp wit. Her writing style is accessible and engaging, making readers feel fully immersed in her characters' lives and relationships.
Her book Fangirl follows Cath, a young woman navigating the challenges of college, family issues, and her passion for writing. It's a realistic portrayal of identity and anxiety interwoven with fan culture.
Ngozi Ukazu's storytelling blends humor, warmth, and sincerity. She addresses friendship, identity, mental health, and masculinity in an approachable and engaging way.
In her graphic series Check, Please!, Ukazu introduces readers to Eric "Bitty" Bittle, a former figure skater starting college and joining the hockey team, navigating sports, friendship, and romance with humor and sincerity.
Alice Oseman's graphic novels and novels explore adolescent life authentically and compassionately. Her books feature diverse characters whose experiences regarding friendship, mental health, and love resonate deeply with young readers.
In Heartstopper, Oseman captures the developing relationship between Nick and Charlie, portraying their lives, feelings, and struggles in a sensitive and relatable way.
Noelle Stevenson creates thoughtful, funny graphic novels about friendship, identity, and overcoming challenges. Stevenson's books feature charming, expressive art that bursts with relatable characters and heartfelt storytelling.
A great example is Nimona, a fantastic, heartwarming story that blends humor, fantasy, and a touch of rebellion—perfect for readers of Mariko Tamaki looking for complex stories with a playful edge.
Faith Erin Hicks writes graphic novels that expertly capture the joys and struggles people face every day. Hicks explores themes of friendship, fitting in, and personal growth through characters who are down-to-earth and believable.
Her delightful and nuanced storytelling shines in Friends with Boys, a thoughtful coming-of-age story that combines everyday teenage experiences with a dash of the supernatural—ideal for fans of Mariko Tamaki's insightful, character-driven narratives.
Cecil Castellucci's graphic novels and fiction often explore identity, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. Castellucci tells stories with compassion and honesty, creating characters who feel genuine and relatable.
The Plain Janes is a standout work that celebrates the power of art, friendship, and expressing one's individuality. Readers who love Mariko Tamaki's sensitive portrayals of teenage life will find much to enjoy here.
Gene Luen Yang's graphic novels vividly portray the experiences of young adults navigating cultural identity, family expectations, and everyday challenges.
His approachable storytelling features a blend of humor and heart, digging into meaningful conversations without sacrificing enjoyment.
American Born Chinese, an award-winning graphic novel, offers readers relatable themes about identity and belonging that fans of Mariko Tamaki's thoughtful storytelling will surely appreciate.
Raina Telgemeier crafts graphic novels filled with warmth, humor, and an authentic portrayal of childhood and adolescence. Her stories often revolve around friendships, family, personal struggles, and self-discovery.
A perfect example is Smile, which blends engaging art with a heartfelt tale of growing up, insecurity, and finding confidence. Readers drawn to Mariko Tamaki's relatable, emotional honesty will connect with Telgemeier's work instantly.
If you like Mariko Tamaki's warm yet honest look at adolescence, you might enjoy Vera Brosgol's storytelling style. Brosgol explores relatable themes of identity and belonging using approachable art and authentic dialogue.
Her graphic novel Be Prepared humorously and thoughtfully portrays a girl's struggle to fit in at summer camp, balancing emotional insight with a playful tone.
Jen Wang crafts heartfelt graphic novels that blend thoughtful storytelling with expressive visuals. If Mariko Tamaki's vibrant worldbuilding appeals to you, you'll likely appreciate Wang's The Prince and the Dressmaker.
This book highlights themes of self-discovery, friendship, and acceptance, presented in a sincere yet charming way.
Lily Williams uses clear storytelling and appealing illustrations to explore important themes, especially related to social awareness and compassion. Like Mariko Tamaki, Williams tackles meaningful issues with sensitivity and warmth.
Her graphic novel Go With the Flow thoughtfully addresses friendship, activism, and menstrual equality in an accessible and engaging way.
Fans of Mariko Tamaki who connect with coming-of-age stories told with empathy and care might enjoy Molly Knox Ostertag. Her narratives are both inclusive and heartfelt, exploring themes like family, identity, and magic with emotional resonance.
Ostertag's The Witch Boy thoughtfully portrays a young boy who secretly learns magic traditionally meant only for girls, highlighting themes of freedom, individuality, and understanding.
G. Willow Wilson creates stories that combine engaging narratives with thoughtful discussions of identity, diversity, and social change. If Mariko Tamaki's nuanced portrayals of complex characters interest you, Wilson's Ms. Marvel: No Normal could be a perfect match.
It follows Kamala Khan, a Muslim-American teenager navigating newfound superpowers alongside normal adolescent challenges, told with wit, warmth, and sensitivity.