Are you looking for diversity? If so, you might want to try reading comics. Diversity has become one of the biggest buzzwords on the internet recently, and the media has been careful to transition from regular storylines and characters to more diverse ones. Comics have also tuned in to this movement and are less niche than they used to be, and if before many fans would collect those books, today it doesn’t make sense, they say.
When you pick up a comic book these days, you do not feel weird reading about a superhero with disabilities or an Asian ‘defender of the galaxy.’ Nowadays, graphic novels also explore interesting plot themes from mental health to environmental conservation. The reception to inclusive comics like ‘Wonder Woman’ and ‘Black Panther’ is evidence enough that comic die-hards love their superheroes current and socially relevant.
Let’s look at four interesting stories that comics tell below.
Casino games and comics have a lasting, fruitful relationship, which is no surprise to anyone. Countries like Japan, the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom are some of the world’s capitals for both comic book production and poker tournaments, so it all adds up that some of the best casino comics come from there.
For example, Yamane Kazutoshi’s Gamble Fish is Blackjack 101 for beginners to casino table games that also have lots of fans. The book’s hero, Tom Shirasagi, is a new transfer student at an elite school who challenges his classmates to a series of matches, usually blackjack games.
Aside from being a thrilling and engaging read, picking up some tips from the tricks and strategies Tom uses to win his matches will make things interesting for you at your next blackjack game.
Also making a strong case for the representation of casino games in comics is Marvel’s thieving mutant, Gambit. If you didn’t already think playing poker was an interesting activity, Gambit’s flicking prowess in the X-Men comics would seriously make you reconsider.
While fans may not be entirely sure about his character’s arc, one thing they can vouch for is his ability to control cards like a pro. While Gambit might have some questionable personality traits, part of what makes him chill is his flashy kinetic powers, combat moves, and deadly poker-playing abilities.
Although the stigma on mental health is still present, more people are becoming more aware of mental health struggles. Comics are among the most important allies in challenging prejudices against mental health. By telling positive stories about heroes who live with these conditions, many others struggling are comforted and reassured that they are not alone.
Adulthood is a Myth by Sarah Andersen is one of the many comics that tackle social anxiety, a disorder that 7% of the American Adult population suffers from. The book details many body presentation issues many millennials can relate to. The main character also suffers from anxiety that forces her to become an extreme introvert.
Since it was published in 2016, it has won the Goodreads Choice Awards for Graphic Novels and Comics three times in a row and currently has four editions in the market.
Eat well without worrying about calories when you devour graphic novels about cooking or managing a restaurant. Yes, reading about monsters and aliens is fun, but sometimes you just want to channel your inner chef and laugh at the drama that happens in the kitchen. Fret not; this department has plenty of comics to keep you satisfied.
Comics like Space Battle Lunchtime come with more than enough theatrics and food-themed amusements. This three-volume comic, released in 2016, follows Peony, a pastry chef from planet Earth who participates in an intergalactic cooking competition with other cooks who do not understand the first thing about fair play.
We won’t ruin it for you, but the cosmic adventures, queer romance, and baked feasts in Space battle lunchtime are something to look forward to.
If you’ve already read this one, this is your reminder to go ahead and have another helping. It is worth it!
Modern dating struggles are interesting material for girl’s night gossip and comic books. These date stories can be hilarious, and many comic authors have made their living by turning both weird and amazing date experiences into beautifully illustrated comics.
Remember those Archie Comics all of us grew up on? You will recall many awkward dating situations in the book, and they are perfect for comic relief. There are newer editions available even now that capture the highs and lows of love relationships. Feeling sentimental already? You might want to make weekend plans with Archie Comics and a chilled bottle of wine.
People live complex lives, and it is only right that we see stories and experiences we can relate to while reading about our favorite superheroes. Fortunately, to some extent, comic books have raised awareness about many important issues and provided much-needed representation for several marginalized communities.
